Signature Procedure: Neck Lift | Dr. Lara Devgan breaks down everything you need to know

Signature Procedure: Neck Lift


An Introduction to Neck Lift Procedures

Aging, genetics, weight fluctuations, and sun exposure can all contribute to sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle banding in the neck area. These changes can make you look older or heavier than you are, even if your face remains youthful. A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to address these concerns, creating a more defined, youthful neckline. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about neck lift surgery, including the procedure, benefits, risks, recovery process, and who makes an ideal candidate.

What Is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is a cosmetic procedure that tightens the skin, removes excess fat, and repositions the underlying muscles in the neck area to create a more youthful and contoured appearance. It is typically performed to address issues such as:

  • Sagging or loose neck skin (commonly called a “turkey neck”)

  • Excess fat under the chin

  • Muscle banding in the neck, which creates unwanted lines or wrinkles

  • Double chin or jowls

This procedure is often combined with other facial surgeries, such as a facelift or liposuction, for a more harmonious overall look.

Types of Neck Lift Procedures

There are several techniques available, depending on the patient's needs and desired results:

  1. Traditional Neck Lift: This comprehensive approach involves incisions around the ear and sometimes under the chin. The surgeon tightens the neck muscles (platysma), removes excess fat, and re-drapes the skin for a smoother appearance. This method is ideal for individuals with significant sagging and muscle banding.

  2. Limited Incision Neck Lift (Mini Neck Lift): This option involves smaller incisions around the ear and under the chin. It is less invasive than the traditional approach and is suitable for those with moderate skin laxity. The recovery time is usually shorter, but the results may be less dramatic.

  3. Neck Liposuction: For patients with good skin elasticity but excess fat under the chin, neck liposuction alone can achieve a more defined neck and jawline. It involves small incisions and the removal of fat through a suction device.

  4. Platysmaplasty: This technique focuses on tightening the neck muscles (platysma) to address vertical banding. It is often combined with skin tightening or liposuction for optimal results.

Ideal Candidates for a Neck Lift

You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if you:

  • Are generally healthy and do not have medical conditions that impair healing.

  • Have realistic expectations about the outcome.

  • Are bothered by sagging neck skin, excess fat, or muscle banding.

  • Do not smoke, as smoking can interfere with the healing process.

The best way to determine if you're a good candidate is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

The Consultation Process

During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will:

  • Evaluate your medical history to ensure there are no underlying health concerns.

  • Examine your neck and jawline to determine the degree of sagging and muscle laxity.

  • Discuss your goals and expectations to customize a treatment plan that suits your needs.

  • Explain the procedure in detail, including the techniques that may be used and where incisions will be made.

  • Review potential risks and complications, ensuring you are fully informed before making a decision.

Preparing for Surgery

Before your neck lift, you will need to:

  • Stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery to promote proper healing.

  • Avoid certain medications like blood thinners, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory drugs, as they can increase bleeding.

  • Arrange for help as you’ll need someone to drive you home and assist you during the initial recovery period.

  • Follow pre-surgery instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include fasting before the procedure.

The Neck Lift Procedure

Step 1: Anesthesia

The surgery begins with either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Step 2: Incisions

The incision pattern depends on the type of neck lift:

  • Traditional Neck Lift: Incisions start in the hairline near the ear, continue around the ear, and end in the posterior hairline.

  • Mini Neck Lift: Smaller incisions are made around the ear and under the chin.

  • Neck Liposuction: Small incisions under the chin for fat removal.

Step 3: Recontouring

  • Fat Removal and Redistribution: Excess fat is removed or redistributed for a more contoured appearance.

  • Muscle Tightening: The platysma muscles are tightened to eliminate banding and improve definition.

  • Skin Redraping: Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is repositioned for a smoother look.

Step 4: Closing the Incisions

Incisions are carefully closed with sutures or skin adhesives. To minimize scarring, incisions are strategically placed in natural creases or hairlines.

Step 5: Bandaging

Your neck will be bandaged to minimize swelling and support the new contours during healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

  • Initial Recovery: Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal and can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.

  • Downtime: Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks but should avoid strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks.

  • Final Results: The improved neck contour becomes more visible as swelling subsides, typically within 4-6 weeks. Full results can take up to 6 months to appear.

  • Scarring: Incisions are designed to be discreet, and scars usually fade over time with proper care.

Longevity of Results

The results of a neck lift are long-lasting but not permanent, as natural aging continues. However, most patients enjoy a rejuvenated appearance for 10-15 years. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and skincare routine can prolong results.

Conclusion

A neck lift is an effective solution for those seeking a more youthful, contoured neck and jawline. With the right surgeon and realistic expectations, you can achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. If you're considering a neck lift, schedule a consultation to discuss your options and begin your journey to a more confident you.

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Watch this TikTok video of Dr. Devgan breaking down a nonsurgical neck contouring procedure.


Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

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Signature Procedure: 5 Factors I Consider in Tear trough and Cheekbone Augmentation

Signature Procedure | Tear trough and Cheekbone Augmentation

When performing tear trough and cheekbone augmentation to rejuvenate the upper third of the face, I consider the following five key factors:


1. Naturalness of Contours – The goal is to restore youthful volume without creating an overfilled or unnatural appearance. I prioritize smooth transitions between the tear trough, midface, and cheekbones to maintain soft, natural contours that integrate seamlessly with the patient’s existing features.
2. Subtlety in Volume Restoration – Precision in filler placement or implant selection is crucial to avoid excessive projection or an exaggerated look. I focus on adding just enough volume to correct hollowness and shadowing while preserving the patient’s inherent facial dynamics and expressions.
3. Understanding of Deep and Superficial Anatomy – A deep knowledge of the orbital and zygomatic anatomy guides my approach. I carefully assess fat pad positioning, ligamentous support, and bony structure to determine the optimal technique for structural enhancement while minimizing risks like filler migration or vascular complications.
4. Coherence of the Result with the Entire Face – The upper third of the face must be in harmony with the midface and jawline. I ensure that tear trough and cheek augmentation blend seamlessly, avoiding an isolated or disjointed enhancement that disrupts facial balance.
5. Longevity and Biocompatibility – Whether using fillers, fat grafting, or implants, I consider the longevity of results and how the materials interact with surrounding tissues over time. I choose techniques and products that maintain structural integrity while aging gracefully alongside the patient’s natural facial changes.

Signature Procedure | Tear trough and Cheekbone Augmentation


Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

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New York Post: Dr. Devgan's Approach to Natural, Finesse Breast Augmentation

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Signature Procedure | Petite Breast Augmentation

In finesse breast augmentation surgery, there is a growing trend toward smaller, more discreet implants that prioritize natural aesthetics, proportion, and long-term tissue health. This shift reflects an evolving beauty standard that values subtle enhancement over exaggerated volume, aligning with advancements in implant technology and surgical techniques that allow for more refined, anatomical results. Patients increasingly seek implants that complement their natural frame, maintaining soft transitions and avoiding the telltale signs of augmentation, such as excessive upper pole fullness or implant visibility. Additionally, smaller implants reduce the risk of complications like bottoming out, rippling, and long-term strain on breast tissue, making them a preferred choice for women looking for understated elegance with lasting results. This trend underscores the importance of surgical precision, individualized planning, and a nuanced approach to creating harmonious and proportionate outcomes.

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For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

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Signature Procedure: 5 Ways Cheekbone and Jawline Augmentation Optimize Facial Beauty

Signature Procedure | Cheekbone & Jawline Augmentation

The importance of the cheekbones and jawline in facial attractiveness is undisputed. These are five ways they augment and optimize facial beauty:

1. Enhancing Symmetry – Well-defined cheekbones and a structured jawline contribute to overall facial symmetry, which is a key factor in perceived beauty. Subtle asymmetries can be balanced through augmentation, leading to a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

2. Improving Bone Structure – High cheekbones and a sculpted jawline create a more striking facial framework. Strong underlying bone structure provides definition and enhances the natural contours of the face, making features appear more chiseled and refined.

3. Achieving Facial Balance – Cheek and jaw augmentation can correct disproportionate features, ensuring that the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the face are in aesthetic harmony. This balance enhances the natural attractiveness of the face and prevents a heavy or weak appearance in certain areas.

4. Rebuilding Waning Architecture Due to Aging – As the face ages, volume loss in the midface and jawline can lead to sagging and a less defined profile. Augmentation restores lost structure, improving contour and preventing the collapse of facial features, resulting in a more youthful, lifted look.

5. Creating a Modelesque Look – High cheekbones and a sharp, angular jawline are defining traits of many fashion models and celebrities. Augmentation can help achieve these sought-after features, enhancing photogenic appeal and lending a refined, sculpted aesthetic that exudes confidence and elegance.

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Signature Procedure | Cheekbone & Jawline Augmentation


Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

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Signature Procedure: Considerations in Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty

Signature Procedure | Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty

In nonsurgical rhinoplasty and profile balancing, I analyze and consider the following five key factors:

1. Facial Harmony & Proportions – I assess the patient’s overall facial balance, including the ratio between the forehead, nose, and chin (the facial thirds), as well as the projection of the nose in relation to the lips and chin. A well-balanced profile often requires addressing more than just the nose.

2. Nasal Shape & Structural Integrity – I evaluate the existing nasal anatomy, including dorsal humps, tip definition, nasal width, and overall symmetry. I must ensure that augmentation enhances definition without compromising aesthetics or function.

3. Skin Thickness & Soft Tissue Response – The patient’s skin type and thickness influence filler choice and placement. Thicker skin can mask subtle refinements, while thinner skin may require softer fillers and precise micro-injections to avoid visible irregularities.

4. Product Selection & Safety – I carefully select hyaluronic acid fillers with appropriate viscosity and lift capacity for different nasal areas. Safety is paramount, so I assess vascular anatomy, especially the risk of vascular compromise in high-risk zones like the nasal tip and dorsum.

5. Chin & Jawline Integration – Profile balancing goes beyond the nose; I analyze chin projection and jawline structure. In some cases, subtle chin augmentation (using filler or implants) can enhance profile harmony and reduce the perception of nasal prominence.


Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

Schedule Online