Neck Lift by Melissa Johnson MD, FACS
Neck Lift Surgery (Platysmaplasty)
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that helps restore the natural curves of your neck and eliminates the sagging jowls and loose neck skin. As we age, the skin and muscles of the neck lose their tone and elasticity. A neck lift tightens the deeper structures and redrapes the neck skin to give you a fresher, more youthful look. See Photos & Faqs below.
Neck lift patients should review and follow our pre-operative and post-operative instructions.
Neck Lift FAQs
Neck lift before & after photos
All photos are of actual procedures performed by Dr. Melissa Johnson
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift restores the jawline and removes excess loose skin of the neck. If you have sagging neck skin or jowls you may benefit from a neck lift. During your consultation, we'll share our expert opinion on whether you are a good candidate for surgery. We'll discuss your expectations, the process, and possible risks and complications.
How should I prepare for a neck lift consultation?
Researching neck lift , Lower Rhytidectomy, or platysmaplasty on reputable internet sites such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery can be very informative to help provide an overview. However, the best information will be obtained by making an appointment and speaking with Dr. Johnson. At the time of your consultation it may also be helpful to review before and after photos of patients who have had the procedure. We will provide you with all the needed information for you to be able to make a comfortable, confident decision about having surgery. It's a good idea to write down any questions or concerns you have so they can be fully addressed at your consultation. Know what your surgical expectations are so Dr. Johnson can discuss them with you. If you are a smoker, we recommend you quit to help reduce the risk of wound healing complications. We also recommend a healthy lifestyle to help your recovery process.
Will I be seen by the surgeon?
Yes. Dr. Johnson will meet with you and she will discuss all your surgical options. Dr. Johnson will provide you with the necessary information so that you feel confident and comfortable with your surgical decision.
Is the plastic surgeon board certified?
Yes. Dr. Johnson is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and is a proud member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Additionally, she is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which recognizes surgeons who specialize in cosmetic plastic surgery.
Will I be charged for an initial consultation?
Yes. There is a $200 cosmetic consultation fee for your initial visit. If you choose to have surgery with Dr. Johnson, the $200 consultation fee will go towards your surgery cost.
Are there different types of neck lift procedures?
A neck lift is done with an incision in the hairline at the temple area extending down around the ear and into the hairline behind the ear. A second incision is made under the chin to improve the contour of the neck. The underlying tissue and muscles of the neck are tightened. The skin is re-draped and the extra skin is removed. Drains are placed to help prevent a seroma (fluid collections) under the skin. The extent of the technique is dependent on your concerns and your surgical expectations. Other procedures may be needed in conjunction with a neck lift to address other aspects of the face such as a facelift or liposuction.
Where will my neck lift procedure be performed?
Dr. Johnson has privileges at Baystate Medical Center and Mercy Medical Center, both are conveniently located in Springfield, MA.
What is the surgical process?
The surgery is performed at a hospital. During surgery you will receive general anesthesia. The surgery will take between 4-5 hours. Once you are awake you are taken to the recovery room for another 1-2 hours. You will spend one night in the hospital. The drains are removed the following morning, before you go home.
Are there risks involved with a neck lift?
Yes, there are risks with any surgical procedure. Some of the possible risks with a neck lift are pain, infection, bruising, swelling, wound healing complications, hematoma/seroma, numbness of the incision or facial areas, asymmetry, unsatisfactory results or scars that may require a revision surgery.
What is the recovery process?
The first few days you may feel tightness and/or pain of the neck and lower face. This is from the muscles being tightened and your surgical incisions. You will notice that the pain decreases with each passing day. You are sent home on pain medications which will decrease your discomfort. You will have bruising and swelling of the face and neck area. We will recommend that you wear a jaw bra with ice for pain relief, and it will help minimize swelling. We will see you one week after surgery to evaluate your healing process. We request that you do no strenuous exercise for at least 4 weeks. For more information, download Post-Operative Instructions for Facelift/Necklift.
We recommend no driving for 2 weeks and no lifting greater than 10 lbs., reaching, pushing or pulling for 4 weeks following surgery.
Will my insurance cover a neck lift surgery?
No. A neck lift is not a medically necessary procedure and will not be covered by insurance carriers. Neck lift is considered a cosmetic procedure.
Can I finance my neck lift procedure?
Yes. We offer patient financing through CareCredit or ALPHAEON CREDIT. See our Financing FAQs for more information.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, cash, money orders, and certified bank checks, or you can finance through CareCredit.
Can I make payments online?
Yes. You can make credit card payments securely online.