As we age, many of us begin to notice that the defined lines of our neck and jaw start to fade. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the natural ageing process, the pull of gravity, and even the genes we’ve inherited from our parents. Unfortunately, creams, exercises, or facial sculpting tools can’t restore the firmness that was once present in the neck and lower half of the face.
RELATED: What are the signs of ageing in the face over time?
If you’re looking to recapture some of your youthful vitality and eliminate signs of ageing, you might consider facial cosmetic surgery. Two popular procedures – the neck lift and lower facelift – can effectively banish jowls and bring back the definition to the lower half of your face.
Centre for Surgery is a leading specialist in the field of facial plastic surgery. Located in the heart of London, we offer our patients a wide range of facial rejuvenation and facelift procedures, providing solutions tailored to their unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Our highly skilled surgeons have extensive experience in the field, and they are dedicated to helping you understand the procedures available to you. They will take the time to clearly explain the differences between a neck lift and a lower facelift. These two procedures, while similar in some respects, have distinct differences that make them more or less suitable depending on individual needs and expectations.
Whether it’s lifting and tightening sagging skin, enhancing facial contours, or restoring a youthful and vibrant appearance, our team at Centre for Surgery is committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals. We will work closely with you, providing guidance and professional advice to help you make an informed decision about the procedure that’s right for you.
Don’t let the signs of ageing keep you from feeling confident and beautiful. Get in touch with our team at Centre for Surgery today and begin your journey towards a rejuvenated, youthful appearance.
In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the details of these two procedures. Our goal is to help you understand what each involves, and to give you the information you need to decide which might be the best fit for your personal needs and aesthetic goals. Whether it’s a neck lift or a lower facelift, the journey to rejuvenating your appearance starts with understanding your options. So, let’s dive in.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, medically known as a platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of the neck by addressing issues such as sagging or loose skin. The operation primarily targets the region under the chin and around the throat, delivering a more defined and youthful appearance.
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The procedure typically begins with incisions made behind the ears, extending into the hairline. This allows the surgeon to subtly hide the scars while providing access to the underlying structures of the neck. The surgeon then proceeds to remove any excess skin, and reposition the Superficial Musculo Aponeurotic System (SMAS), a layer of tissue that supports the neck and facial structure. This reshaping and tightening give a revitalised look to your neck.
RELATED: Neck Lift Before & After Photos
For patients with noticeable vertical bands on the neck, known as platysmal bands, a neck lift can be particularly effective. These bands occur as the platysma muscles – a thin, broad pair of muscles on each side of the neck – become separated over time. During the neck lift, the surgeon can access these muscles through a small incision under the chin, allowing them to sew these bands together and create a smoother, more natural-looking neck.
In certain cases, if the patient wants to address a double chin in addition to a sagging neck, the surgeon may combine the neck lift with liposuction. This removes excess fat, further enhancing the definition of the jawline. For those struggling with significant skin laxity or prominent separation of the platysmal bands, a combined approach of a lower facelift and a neck lift might be suggested. This is due to the interconnected nature of the facial and neck muscle layers, making it challenging to address one without affecting the other.
RELATED: How much does a neck lift cost?
What is a Lower Facelift?
A lower facelift is a surgical procedure that primarily aims to address the signs of ageing around the lower part of the face and neck. This includes sagging jowls, undefined jawline, and the appearance of ‘laugh lines’ or nasolabial folds, which are the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
During a lower facelift, the surgeon focuses on adjusting the upper portion of your platysma muscles, which span from the upper chest over the collarbone to the sides of the neck. These muscles are connected to a sturdy layer of tissue known as the fascia. By carefully repositioning these muscles, along with the skin and fat tissues, the surgeon can effectively lift the lower part of the face and neck. This adjustment not only tightens sagging skin but also reduces the prominence of nasolabial folds, delivering a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
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The procedure begins with the surgeon making an incision in front of the ear, which extends up to the hairline. This strategic positioning of the incision helps to conceal any resulting scars. The surgeon then pulls the skin, fat tissues, and platysma muscles upwards, creating a more defined, tightened look around the jawline and the lower face.
It’s important to note that a lower facelift doesn’t stop the ageing process but instead sets back the clock, giving your face a rejuvenated appearance that is more reflective of how you feel on the inside. The results can last for many years, depending on your skin quality and how well you take care of your skin post-surgery.
Main Differences between a Lower Facelift and a Neck Lift
While both a lower facelift and a neck lift aim to counteract the effects of ageing and gravity on our skin, they focus on different areas and address specific problems. The terms are often used interchangeably online, but there are several key differences between the two surgical procedures.
A lower facelift primarily targets the lower part of the face, including the jowls and jawline. The aim is to lift sagging skin and tissues in this area to create a more youthful and defined appearance. To accomplish this, the surgeon will typically make incisions both in front and behind the ear, and possibly extend the incision higher to lift the cheek area.
RELATED: Different Types of Facelift And Neck Lift
On the other hand, a neck lift focuses exclusively on the neck. This procedure is aimed at tightening loose or sagging skin in the neck region, as well as correcting visible vertical bands caused by separated platysma muscles. The incisions for a neck lift are usually made around the ear and below the chin. In some cases, particularly for patients with minimal skin laxity, the procedure can be performed using only an incision under the chin.
Ideal Candidates for a Neck Lift and Lower Facelift
Lower Facelift Surgery: Who’s an Ideal Candidate?
If you’re thinking about getting a lower facelift surgery, it’s important to know if you’re a suitable candidate. Ideal candidates for this procedure generally include:
- Non-smokers, or those who can give up smoking for a certain period of time around the surgery. Smoking can hinder the healing process and lead to complications.
- People who have sagging jowls, but minimal sagging in the neck region. A lower facelift primarily focuses on rejuvenating the lower part of the face, including the jowls and jawline.
- Those who desire a more defined jawline. By lifting and tightening the skin and underlying tissues, a lower facelift can create a sharper and more youthful jawline.
- Individuals looking to reduce the appearance of laugh lines, which are the lines that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
- Patients who are generally in good health, without chronic illnesses that could impact the surgery or recovery.
- Individuals with realistic expectations. While a lower facelift can significantly improve the appearance of the lower face, it’s important to understand what the surgery can and cannot achieve.
Neck Lift Surgery: Who’s an Ideal Candidate?
Are you considering a neck lift? Here’s what makes you a good candidate:
- Non-smokers, or those willing to quit for a certain period of time around the surgery. Smoking can slow down the healing process and potentially lead to complications.
- Individuals with significant skin laxity in the neck area. A neck lift is designed to tighten and smooth the skin of the neck, improving the appearance of a “turkey neck” or “wattle.”
- Those with pronounced sagging in the neck. This procedure can tighten loose skin and underlying tissues to create a smoother, more youthful neck contour.
- Individuals with prominent vertical neck bands. During a neck lift, these bands (caused by separation of the platysma muscles) can be addressed to create a smoother neck appearance.
- People with realistic expectations. A neck lift can greatly improve the appearance of the neck, but it’s important to understand what the procedure can and cannot do.
- Individuals in good health without medical conditions that might affect healing.
Please note that your surgeon may recommend a combination of a lower facelift and a neck lift to achieve your desired results, especially if you have sagging and ageing concerns in both areas. A comprehensive consultation with your surgeon will help determine the best approach for your individual needs and goals.
RELATED: Solutions For Saggy Neck – Neck Liposuction vs Neck Lift
When is Lower Facelift Surgery combined with Neck Lift Surgery?
In many instances, surgeons opt to combine a lower facelift with a neck lift to optimise both aesthetic and functional outcomes in rejuvenating the neck and the lower half of the face. Here’s why:
Each procedure targets a specific area: a neck lift focuses solely on improving the neck region, while a lower facelift primarily addresses the lower half of the face. By performing these procedures in conjunction, the surgeon is able to comprehensively treat ageing signs across these connected areas. This leads to a more cohesive and natural-looking result.
This combined approach enables the surgeon to remove loose, sagging skin, and reposition underlying muscles, tissues, and structures in both the lower face and neck regions. The result is a lifting effect that significantly reduces visible signs of ageing.
The benefits of combining a lower facelift with a neck lift are many. Notably, you can expect a more defined and sharper-looking chin and jawline. You’ll also see a reduction in the appearance of nasolabial folds (the lines that run from your nose to the corners of your mouth), and experience lifted cheeks. In addition, neck wrinkles and bands – common ageing signs in the neck area – will be significantly reduced.
So, if you’re considering facial rejuvenation surgery and have ageing concerns in both the lower face and neck areas, a combined lower facelift and neck lift could offer the comprehensive improvement you’re looking for.
Potential Risks and Complications of Lower Facelift and Neck Lift
Just like any other type of surgical procedure, lower facelifts and neck lifts do come with some potential risks and complications. Understanding these risks will help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
One of the main risks that comes with these surgeries is a haematoma, which is an accumulation of blood beneath the skin. To lessen the chance of this happening, it’s important that you avoid any medications or herbal supplements that thin your blood.
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In the weeks following the surgery (typically around four), you should also steer clear of strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, as these activities can increase the risk of complications.
If you’re a smoker, it’s vital that you refrain from smoking for several weeks before and after your surgery. Smoking can negatively impact the healing process by reducing blood flow to the skin, which can result in skin necrosis (death of skin cells) and an increased risk of infection. It can also exacerbate scarring.
Another possible, albeit less common risk, is injury to the facial nerves. This could potentially affect facial expressions and sensation, but this is a very rare occurrence in the hands of an experienced surgeon.
Other risks associated with these surgeries, although all quite rare, include: facial asymmetry, prolonged swelling, numbness, persistent pain, loss of skin, skin irregularities and discolouration, hair loss around the incision sites, and visible or unfavourable scarring.
FAQS about Neck Lift and Lower Facelift Procedures
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about neck lift and lower facelift procedures:
Can a neck lift get rid of jowls?
While a neck lift can improve the appearance of sagging jowls to some extent, for moderate to severe jowls, a lower facelift or a combination of procedures may be more beneficial.
What is the difference between a mini facelift a neck lift?
While a mini facelift targets sagging skin and wrinkles in the lower part of the face, a neck lift focuses on reducing sagging skin and wrinkles on the neck. The mini facelift is less invasive and the recovery time is usually shorter compared to a full facelift.
What is the best age to have a facelift?
There isn’t a “best” age to have a facelift. It depends on individual circumstances and the condition of your skin. However, most people who undergo a facelift are in their 40s, 50s, or 60s.
At what age should you get a neck lift?
There is no specific age at which you should get a neck lift. It depends on individual circumstances and the condition of your skin. However, most people who undergo this procedure are between the ages of 40 and 60.
RELATED: Neck Lift FAQs – Q&A about Neck Lift Surgery
What is a mini neck lift?
A mini neck lift is a less invasive version of a neck lift. It targets sagging skin and wrinkles under the chin and neck but to a lesser extent than a full neck lift.
Does a lower facelift include the neck?
Typically, a lower facelift does not include a neck lift, but in some cases, the surgeon may recommend performing both procedures at the same time to achieve a more harmonious result.
Is a neck lift the same as a lower facelift?
No, a neck lift is a procedure that targets sagging skin and wrinkles on the neck, while a lower facelift targets the same problems in the lower part of the face, such as the jowls and cheeks.
How long do the results of a lower face and neck lift last?
The results of a lower facelift and neck lift typically last around 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary based on the individual’s skin type, lifestyle, and age.
Can I see neck lift and lower facelift before and after photographs during the consultation?
Yes, during your consultation at our Baker Street clinic, we can show you before and after photos of past patients who have undergone these procedures. This will help give you a better idea of what kind of results you can expect.
How much does a neck lift and lower facelift cost in the UK?
The cost of a lower facelift and neck lift in the UK can vary significantly based on a number of factors such as the surgeon’s expertise and the complexity of the procedure. You can call us to get an estimate.
Neck Lift & Lower Facelift at Centre for Surgery: Comprehensive Insights and Patient Experiences
Unveiling a New You with Expert Care at Centre for Surgery
At the Centre for Surgery, located in the heart of London, we specialise in providing transformative neck lift and lower facelift procedures. Our state-of-the-art clinic at 95-97 Baker Street is renowned for its cutting-edge techniques and personalised patient care. Learn more about our ethos and unparalleled services at our About Us page.
Patient Testimonials: Real Stories, Remarkable Results
- Emma’s Journey: “After years of feeling self-conscious about my sagging neck, I finally decided to undergo a neck lift at Centre for Surgery. The results were beyond my expectations. The care I received from the initial consultation through to post-operative follow-ups was exceptional. My recovery was smooth, and the outcome has been life-changing.”
- David’s Transformation: “Opting for a lower facelift was a big decision for me. The team at Centre for Surgery made the process seamless and reassuring. Post-surgery, I look years younger, and the natural results have boosted my confidence immensely.”
- Sophia’s Experience: “The combined neck lift and lower facelift procedure I had at Centre for Surgery has been a turning point in my life. The surgeons are highly skilled, and the support staff are incredibly caring. I am thrilled with the subtle yet significant improvements in my appearance.”
Booking Your Consultation: Start Your Journey Today
To discuss how a neck lift or lower facelift can benefit you, please contact us for a personalised consultation. Call us at 0207 993 4849 or reach out via email. You can also visit our Contact Us page for more details.
Flexible Finance Options: Making Quality Care Accessible
We understand the importance of accessible cosmetic procedures. That’s why we offer a range of finance options, including 0% APR with Chrysalis Finance. Discover the right plan for you at our Finance Options page.
Empowering Your Decision: Additional Resources
For more insights into cosmetic surgery, including neck lifts and lower facelifts, explore our comprehensive Plastic Surgery Blog. Additionally, find answers to common queries in our FAQs section.
Visit Our Baker Street Clinic
Experience our top-tier services in person at our Baker Street clinic. Learn more about this location and what to expect during your visit here.
Embark on a journey of transformation with the Centre for Surgery, where expert care meets unparalleled results.
