You’ve tried a new diet and exercising, but you’re still constantly bothered by that one thing — excess fat under your chin.
Having a defined jawbone can enhance other facial features — and not having one can draw the eye closer towards it.
Neck liposuction is getting more popular in helping patients get a more sculpted, youthful-looking neck and jawline. You may have questions from the procedure itself to the benefits, preparation, recovery and more.
We’re here to help you feel confident in your decision to get neck liposuction!
What is Neck Liposuction?
Neck liposuction is a surgical procedure that targets and removes excess fat deposits in the neck and jawline. By strategically eliminating this fat, neck liposuction can create a more defined, contoured appearance.
Liposuction (neck) is different from other neck contouring procedures, such as a neck lift, which addresses loose skin and muscle bands, or Kybella injections, which uses a chemical to break down fat cells. Neck liposuction specifically focuses on removing fat to reshape the neck and jawline.
Liposuction Neck: Understanding the Procedure
During a neck liposuction procedure, your plastic surgeon will make small incisions beneath the chin or behind the ears. Through these incisions, a thin, hollow tube called a cannula will be inserted. The cannula is used to carefully break up and suction out the excess fat, sculpting a more defined neck and jawline contour.
Neck liposuction is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, meaning you’ll be awake but relaxed and comfortable. The procedure usually takes about an hour, depending on the extent of the treatment. You may have the option of having neck liposuction performed under local anesthesia.
In some cases, neck liposuction may be combined with other procedures, such as a facelift or chin augmentation, to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the best approach for your individual needs and goals during your consultation.
Benefits of Neck Liposuction
Chin and neck liposuction offers a range of benefits for patients looking to improve the appearance of their neck and jawline.
Enhanced Jawline Definition
One of the most significant benefits of neck liposuction is the ability to create a more chiseled, defined jawline. Removing excess fat that obscures the natural contours of the jaw through neck liposuction can reveal a sharper, more angular jawline.
This can be especially beneficial for patients who have always had a softer jawline or who have noticed a loss of definition due to aging or weight gain.
Reduction of Excess Fat Deposits
Neck liposuction specifically targets stubborn fat deposits in the neck area, which can be resistant to diet and exercise. These fat deposits, often referred to as a “double chin,” can contribute to a heavier, less defined appearance.
By eliminating this excess fat, neck liposuction can create a sleeker, more streamlined look, boosting your confidence and helping you feel your best.
Improved Neck Contour
In addition to reducing excess fat, neck liposuction can also help create a smoother, more graceful neck contour. Your plastic surgeon will do this by carefully sculpting the remaining fat and ensuring a smooth, even result.
A well-contoured neck can help you achieve a more slender, youthful appearance, as the neck is often one of the first areas to show signs of aging.
Enhanced Facial Profile
Finally, neck liposuction can improve the overall balance and harmony of your facial profile. A well-defined neck and jawline can complement other facial features, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and proportionate look.
This can be especially beneficial if you feel that your neck or jawline is detracting from your other features or making you look heavier or older.
Ideal Candidates for Neck Liposuction
While neck liposuction can be an excellent solution for many people, it’s important to understand that not everyone is an ideal candidate for the procedure.
Non-Smokers
Smoking can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to the treated area, slowing down healing and potentially leading to tissue damage. If you smoke, your plastic surgeon will likely recommend that you quit for at least several weeks before and after your procedure to minimize these risks.
Healthy Individuals Without Significant Medical Conditions
Overall health is another important factor for neck liposuction candidates. Ideal candidates should be in good general health, without any significant medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications or impair healing.
Some conditions that may be of concern include uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and bleeding disorders.
Those with Good Skin Elasticity
Skin elasticity is crucial for optimal neck liposuction results. Good skin elasticity means that your skin has the ability to contract and conform to your new neck contours after the excess fat is removed.
If your skin has poor elasticity, you may be left with loose, sagging skin after the procedure, which can compromise your results. In these cases, your plastic surgeon may recommend a neck lift in addition to or instead of neck liposuction to address both excess fat and loose skin.
Preparation Before Neck Liposuction
It’s important that you follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your plastic surgeon. These may include avoiding certain medications, such as blood thinners such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs, which can increase the risk of bleeding and other complications. You’ll also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.
In some cases, your plastic surgeon may request pre-operative tests or imaging, such as blood work or an x-ray, to ensure that you’re a good candidate for the procedure and to help plan your surgery. These tests can help identify any underlying health concerns and allow your plastic surgeon to tailor the procedure to your specific needs.
Recovery Process After Neck Liposuction
While everyone’s experience is unique, there are some common side effects and milestones to keep in mind.
Immediately after the procedure, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. These side effects are normal and typically peak around 48-72 hours post-surgery. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with pain medication and other instructions to help manage your symptoms during this time.
Most patients are able to return to work and other light activities within a week of their procedure, although you may need to wear a compression garment to help control swelling and support your new neck contours. More strenuous activities, such as exercise, will need to be avoided for several weeks to allow your body to heal properly.
It’s important to keep in mind that while you’ll see some immediate improvements after your procedure, it can take several months for your final results to fully develop. Swelling can take time to subside completely, and your skin will need to adapt to its new contours.
Take a look at some of these plastic surgery pictures of neck liposuction before and after to see how Dr. Adrian Lo could help you!
Risks and Considerations
With any plastic surgery procedure there are risks. While these risks are generally rare, especially when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, it’s important to be aware of them as you consider your options.
If you have complications, then the cost of neck liposuction may be higher in order to treat the complications.
Potential Side Effects
Some of the potential side effects of neck liposuction include:
- Swelling and bruising: These are common side effects that typically resolve on their own within a few weeks.
- Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary numbness in the treated area due to disruption of the sensory nerves. This usually subsides as the nerves heal.
- Asymmetry: In rare cases, uneven fat removal can lead to asymmetry in the neck contours. Revision surgery may be needed to correct this.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a small risk of infection. Following proper post-operative care instructions can help minimize this risk.
Most of these side effects are temporary and can be managed with proper care and follow-up with your plastic surgeon. However, it’s important to discuss all potential risks and complications with your plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo neck liposuction.
Note: liposuction of the neck cost might be something you’re interested in, and we can help. We offer financing so liposuction can be more accessible for our patients. Learn more about our patient financing options if you’re curious about the neck liposuction cost.
Liposuction on Neck: Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Adrian Lo
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when considering neck liposuction. Reach out to our team to schedule your appointment with Dr. Adrian Lo to begin your journey toward a face you love!