Direct Neck Lift at Restora Austin Plastic Surgery Centre

Learning about the Direct Neck Lift

Sagging neck skin, also known as a “turkey waddle,” is a challenging problem for many. For some patients, this is their main area of aesthetic concern because it can significantly age them and is a tell-tale marker of getting older. Although men and women experience this issue, isolated sagging of the neck skin is more common in men, often due to the nature in which men typically age.

Dr. Reid uses a direct neck lift technique that has grown in popularity in his practice over the past few years. Patients are extremely happy with the results of this procedure, and the overwhelming number of these patients come from direct referrals from other patients that have had the procedure performed. Due to Dr. Reid’s experience, many patients travel great distances to schedule the procedure with him.

If you are interested in learning more about the direct neck lift technique schedule a consultation with Dr. Reid. You can also contact the professional staff at Restora Austin Plastic Surgery Centre in Austin, TX today by calling 512-371-8817.

What is a Direct Neck Lift?

As the name may imply, a direct neck lift involves directly removing the excess skin and fat of the neck through an incision under the chin, which extends just to the top part of the neck. This procedure also allows for direct tightening of the underlying muscle to successfully reduce the obvious banding apparent in the central neck. The incision is closed with a Z-plasty or zig-zag type incision. This closure allows for better healing and concealment of the scar. No drains are required. Frequently, treatment can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation, and recovery time is dramatically reduced, too.

Why Not Use a Standard Necklift?

There can be indications for a standard face and neck lift in men, such as heavy jowls, deep nasolabial folds, and midface descent. For those men who are interested in correcting the appearance of a sagging neck alone, a direct neck lift can be a better option. Unlike for female patients, where traditional facelift incisions can be hidden around the ear and longer hairstyles, men typically have shorter (or, in some cases, absent) hair, ultimately making the incisions much more visible. Traditional face and neck lift incisions can also move the hair-bearing skin, resulting in unnatural facial hair patterns around the ear.

How Does the Direct Neck Lift Scar Heal?

Although the direct neck lift does leave a scar under the chin and at the top of the neck, the Z-patterned closure allows the incision to heal very well and even stay nicely camouflaged within the creases of the hair-bearing portion of the neck skin. Since this incision is not a tell-tale sign of cosmetic surgery, most men find it to be more socially acceptable, because they can attribute it to almost anything—like cyst removal or thyroid surgery.

 What Can I Expect at My Consultation?

During your initial consultation, Dr. Reid reviews your medical history and medications. He examines your neck to determine what neck procedure will work best for you and meet your post-surgery goals. Good candidates for a direct neck lift have excess sagging neck skin. Dr. Reid can show you exactly where to expect the Z-shaped scar after surgery.

When it comes to any cosmetic surgery or treatment, the best patient is one who is mentally, physically, and emotional stable, as well as, someone who expects realistic results.

What Are the Risks Associated with Direct Neck Lift Surgery?

Like all surgical procedures, a direct neck lift involves certain risks, including the possibility of bleeding, infection, fluid collection, changes in skin sensation, contour irregularities, and unfavorable scarring. Drains are not typically used for this treatment.

It is important to note: although all cosmetic surgeries and treatments carry their own set of risks and possible complications, when the procedure is performed by a trained and skilled doctor, there is a less likely chance for something wrong or negative to occur. With Dr. Reid, you are under the care of an experienced professional who is committed to aesthetic results and patient safety.

How Long Will I Need to Take Off of Work?

Most patients should plan on reserving seven to ten days of social downtime. After this time, you should be able to return to work and most normal activities, while avoiding anything overly strenuous.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Recovering from a direct neck lift is often rather quick and painless. You can even shower the day after surgery. The incision line will need to be treated each day with antibiotic ointment. You will have sutures that need to be removed seven to ten days following the procedure. There will be some swelling and bruising for a few days, but any post-operative pain can be managed with pain medication. The scar may appear pink at first but will eventually lighten over the course of the first few months. You can return to exercising once the sutures have been removed.

Where Will My Direct Neck Lift Be Performed?

Your treatment will be performed as an outpatient procedure at INSPIRE, our fully accredited, AAAASF surgery center. The surgery can be performed under local anesthesia with light sedation, or a board-certified anesthesiologist can administer general anesthesia—whichever you prefer.

What’s the Cost of a Direct Neck Lift?

Because each patient is different, with various wants and needs, it’s difficult to determine how much will cost for everyone. However, during your consultation with Dr. Reid, you will get a better understanding of the overall price of the procedure as well as possible payment plans and options.

What’s the Difference Between Restora Austin’s Direct Neck Lift Procedure and Others?

What mostly differentiates Dr. Reid from other practices and doctors that perform this treatment is his experience and aesthetic philosophy, as well as his state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Dr. Reid will evaluate your anatomy and determine your goals to create a surgical plan that is tailored specifically for you.

 What if I Don’t Live in Austin?

Because Dr. Reid has such experience in this procedure, and due to his high amount of patient referrals, Dr. Reid frequently treats patients from around the United States. At Restora Austin, we frequently conduct virtual consultations through email. The patient sends pictures and details, which are then reviewed by Dr. Reid, and a plan is formed. FaceTime or Skype are used to perform a face-to-face virtual consultation. Once the plan is formed, surgery can be planned and booked. Usually, Dr. Reid will see the patient the day before surgery to formalize the plan. INSPIRE Surgery Centre offers overnight-stay capability, and Restora Austin has arrangements for differing levels of care for your stay if you desire. Our goal is to provide you will an exceptional experience from beginning to end. Previous patients can attest to this:

“Dr. Reid was the absolute best! I emailed him a list of questions and concerns I had, and he took the time to call me and answer every single one personally. I would recommend him to every single person I know. He was kind, compassionate, and professional. Better yet, he did an incredible job, and my results are amazing.” – Satisfied Patient

“Dr. Reid and the entire staff at Restora are amazing! I’ve had several procedures performed, from laser treatments to injections, even surgeries, and couldn’t be happier with the results! I’m a year post-op, and just wanted to say how happy I am! That’s an understatement: I’m ecstatic! My results are amazing. Dr. Reid gave me exactly what I asked for.” – Satisfied Patient

Contact Restora Austin Today

We fully understand how difficult it can be to feel comfortable and confident in your skin. To help you feel like yourself again, we provide surgical options that meet your needs, support best possible healing, and reveal youthful skin.

To schedule a direct neck lift consultation in Austin, TX with Dr. Reid, contact the friendly and professional staff at Restora Austin Plastic Surgery Centre today by calling 512-371-8817.

Are you ready to get rid of the “turkey neck”? Call Restora Austin today at 512.371.8817.