As we age, changes in the lower face and neck become more apparent. Loss of jawline definition, sagging skin, and the appearance of jowls are common concerns that can impact your overall facial contour. Neck aging often includes excess fat, muscle banding, and skin laxity, contributing to a less defined, youthful profile.
For individuals who are beginning to notice signs of aging but may not yet need a full facelift, lower face contouring offers an effective alternative. This option specifically targets concerns like mild jowling, early loss of jawline definition, and neck fullness.. By focusing on the lower face and neck, these treatments can provide noticeable rejuvenation without the more extensive surgery of a full facelift, making it a great solution for those looking to address these changes with a targeted approach.
The Lower Face Contouring Procedure
The lower face contouring procedure, often referred to as a deep neck lift, is similar to a deep plane facelift but focuses exclusively on the neck and jawline without affecting the midface. This procedure involves liposuction first and then making incisions behind the ears lifting the deeper layers of the neck muscles and tissues to address skin laxity. By targeting the lower face and neck, this procedure can create a more defined jawline and youthful neck contour without altering the midface, offering a refined yet natural-looking result.
The Utah Facial Plastics Difference
At Utah Facial Plastics, we specialize in face and neck lift procedures, offering a truly personalized approach to address each patient’s unique concerns. Our team of experts focuses exclusively on facial and neck anatomy, ensuring the highest level of precision and expertise. Whether you’re in your 30s or 60s, we provide a variety of options to treat aging symptoms such as jowling, sagging skin, and excess fullness. By customizing each treatment plan based on your individual goals, anatomy, and concerns, we achieve natural, rejuvenated results that enhance your unique features and restore your confidence.
At Utah Facial Plastics, our board-certified surgeons—Dr. Thompson, Dr. Henstrom, and Dr. Manning—bring unparalleled expertise and meticulous care to every face and neck lift procedure. With their extensive training and focus on natural-looking results, they expertly tailor each treatment to address your specific concerns and anatomical features.
Facelift vs. Necklift Options
It can be difficult to know what treatment or procedure may be right for you when it comes to facial aging, but at Utah Facial Plastics we are here to guide you through the options. Patients seeking facial rejuvenation have several advanced surgical choices, each tailored to address specific aging concerns. A deep plane facelift targets the deeper layers of facial tissue of the face and neck, offering long-lasting and natural-looking results by repositioning both the skin and underlying muscles. For those needing less extensive correction, the mini facelift or MACSlift provides subtle enhancement with shorter recovery times. Neck-focused options include lower face contouring and deep neck contouring, which can dramatically define the jawline and eliminate neck sagging, and the direct neck lift, ideal for patients primarily concerned with neck aging who may not require a full facelift. UFP face and neck experts provide personalized consultations to determine the best approach for each patient’s unique needs.
Lower Face Contouring FAQ's
An ideal candidate for a lower face contouring (deep neck lift) procedure combined with a neck lift is typically someone who:
- Has mild loose or sagging skin in the lower face and neck area. This could be due to aging, weight loss, or genetics.
- Exhibits jowls or a poorly defined jawline. A neck lift can help restore sharper contours along the jawline and chin.
- Has mild to moderate excess fat in the neck region. This fat can be addressed during the procedure.
- Has minimal skin elasticity. Good skin elasticity is essential for achieving smooth, natural results post-procedure.
- Is in good general health and doesn't have medical conditions that could impair healing.
- Is a non-smoker or willing to stop smoking, as smoking can impede recovery and affect the results.
- Has realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery, understanding that it can enhance their appearance but won’t stop the aging process entirely.
- Is in their 30s to 50s, though younger or older individuals can also benefit depending on their unique concerns.
Lower face contouring neck lift procedure provides a more comprehensive rejuvenation, addressing both skin laxity and muscle tone, and is typically performed by skilled, board-certified surgeons like Dr. Thompson, Dr. Henstrom, and Dr. Manning.
Initial Recovery Period (First 1-2 Weeks):
- Swelling and Bruising: These are normal and most noticeable around the neck, jawline, and lower face. Swelling may extend into the cheeks and last for a few weeks.
- Tightness and Discomfort: Patients often feel a sensation of tightness in the neck and lower face, which is a result of skin and muscle repositioning.
- Bandages and Drainage: Surgical bandages will be applied to minimize swelling, and small drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup. These are usually removed within 1-2 days.
- Sutures: Stitches around the ears, under the chin, or behind the neck will either dissolve or be removed after about a week.
- Limited Mobility: Patients should avoid turning their heads sharply or bending over to prevent strain on the healing tissues.
- Pain Management: Mild pain or discomfort can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications.
2. Week 2-4:
- Decreased Swelling and Bruising: By the second week, swelling and bruising will start to subside, and patients will begin to see improvements in their facial contours.
- Improved Comfort: Tightness will gradually lessen, and general comfort will improve. Some patients experience numbness, which will diminish over time.
- Return to Routine Activities: Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities, including work, around 2-3 weeks after surgery, depending on how quickly they heal.
- Scar Healing: Incisions are placed behind the ears and typically become less noticeable over time. Scar care is essential, and your surgeon will advise on specific treatments or creams to minimize visibility.
3. Long-Term Recovery (3+ Months):
- Final Results: Over the next several months, swelling continues to decrease, and the final contour of the neck and lower face will become more evident.
- Full Healing: Patients can expect to see the full effects of their neck lift in about 3-6 months. The result will be a firmer, more youthful-looking neck and jawline with smooth skin and natural contours.
- Exercise and Physical Activity: Full exercise and physical activity can be resumed after about 4-6 weeks, with guidance from your surgeon.
It’s important for patients to follow post-op care instructions from their surgeon for optimal results.
Patients may experience some mild discomfort and tightness that is managed with medication as needed. Neck Lift symptoms will gradually improving over the following weeks .
With any lift, results are long lasting. On average this procedure may last 5-10 years. This varies on skin elasticity, genetics, and other lifestyle factors. The aging process will continue after surgery.
The Lower Face Contouring procedure incisions are placed discreetly behind the ears. They generally heal very well and will likely be undetected over time.
SCHEDULE YOUR NECK REJUVENATION CONSULTATION TODAY!
Are you interested in addressing skin laxity, jowling, or other face and neck aging symptoms? Utah Facial Plastics surgeons are here to discuss your personal concerns and come up with a customized plan for you. Contact Utah Facial Plastics for more information by filling out our contact form or call 801.776.2220.