A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure specifically designed to correct age-related changes in the neck. While a facelift focuses on the mid-face and jowls, a neck lift targets concerns below the jawline. Dr. Goldberg’s specialized approach addresses all components of an aging neck: loose skin, excess fat, and separated neck muscles (platysma bands), to create a more defined, contoured, and youthful profile.
You may be an ideal candidate for a neck lift if you are bothered by one or more of the following concerns:
"Turkey Neck": Loose, sagging, or wrinkled skin on the neck.
Platysma Bands: Visible, vertical bands caused by the separation of neck muscles.
Fullness or a "Double Chin": Excess fat under the chin that does not respond to diet and exercise.
Poor Jawline Definition: Loss of the sharp, angular contour between the jaw and neck.
Personal Readiness:
You are in good general health and a non-smoker.
You have realistic expectations for improvement.
You are concerned specifically with your neck and jawline, not the mid-face.
A neck lift is not one-size-fits-all. During your consultation, Dr. Goldberg will create a plan tailored to your unique anatomy and goals. This appointment includes:
Assessment of Your Concerns: Dr. Goldberg will listen to what you find most bothersome about your neck.
Physical Examination: He will evaluate the quality of your skin, the amount of excess fat, and the condition of your underlying neck muscles.
Customized Surgical Plan: He will determine the precise techniques needed for your optimal result, which may include liposuction, platysmaplasty (muscle tightening), and skin removal.
Detailed Walkthrough: Dr. Goldberg will explain the procedure step-by-step, including the facility, anesthesia, recovery process, and cost.
Visualizing Your Result: You will have the opportunity to view before-and-after photos of previous neck lift patients.
Dr. Goldberg performs neck lift surgery in an accredited surgical facility under anesthesia for your comfort. His technique is precise and tailored, often involving a combination of the following:
Liposuction: Small incisions under the chin and behind the ears allow for the removal of unwanted fat to reveal the underlying jawline structure.
Platysmaplasty (Muscle Tightening): The separated platysma muscles in the front of the neck are tightened and sutured together. This is the key step to eliminating vertical bands and creating a smoother, tighter neck.
Skin Redraping and Removal: After the underlying structures are contoured, the skin is lifted and pulled taut. The excess skin is trimmed away, and the remaining skin is re-draped for a smooth finish.
Discreet Incisions: Incisions are strategically placed in the natural crease behind the ear and, if necessary, under the chin, where they are easily concealed.
Understanding the recovery process helps ensure a smooth healing journey.
Immediately After Surgery: You will wear a compression garment around your neck to minimize swelling and support the new contours. Some tightness, swelling, and bruising are normal.
The First Week: You will rest with your head elevated. Most patients are up and moving within a day or two. Discomfort is manageable with medication.
Week 1-2: Dr. Goldberg will remove your sutures. Swelling and bruising will begin to subside significantly, allowing you to see the initial improvement in your jawline.
Weeks 3-4: You can typically return to most daily activities and work. The majority of the swelling will resolve, revealing a more defined contour.
Months 2-6: As the residual swelling fully disappears and the incision lines fade, the final, sleek results of your neck lift will become fully apparent.
The neck is a complex area that requires a surgeon with specific expertise to avoid a "done" look. Dr. Goldberg is that surgeon.
Focused Expertise: Dr. Goldberg has refined his techniques to master the nuances of neck anatomy, ensuring natural and lasting results.
Artistic Eye for Profile: He understands that a successful neck lift creates a harmonious, graceful transition from the jaw to the neck.
Comprehensive Approach: He addresses all layers—fat, muscle, and skin—for a complete correction, not just a superficial fix.
Patient-Centered Care: Dr. Goldberg and his team provide compassionate, clear communication and support throughout your entire experience.
