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Neck Lift

A neck lift, also known by the medical term platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure. It is designed to alter the appearance of the skin and underlying muscles in the neck.

Neck Lift Sydney

A neck lift, medically referred to as a platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure involving the repositioning or tightening of the platysma muscle. It may also include the removal of skin from the neck area. The aim is to alter the structure of the neck and change the angle where the neck meets the jawline.

How does a neck lift work to adjust the contours of the neck?

  • Skin: Following an incision, a surgeon can remove a section of skin. This step is performed with the aim of changing the surface characteristics of the neck.
  • Fat: The procedure can involve the surgical removal or repositioning of subcutaneous fat from the neck and the area under the chin. This is done to alter the distribution of volume in the neck area.
  • Muscle: The platysma muscle in the neck may be surgically tightened or repositioned. This is intended to affect the underlying structure and shape of the neck.
  • Combined Effect: The surgical alterations to skin, fat, and muscle are intended to work in combination to produce a change in the overall contour of the neck and jawline.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The first step in the neck lift process is a detailed consultation with our expert surgeon. In this meeting, your aesthetic goals, medical history, and the anatomy of your neck will be discussed. The surgeon will evaluate your skin quality, the amount of excess fat, and the degree of muscle laxity. This consultation is the ideal time for you to address any concerns or ask any questions you may have about the procedure.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once you and the surgeon have agreed on the goals of the surgery, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your neck lift. These may include guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications, and skincare.

Surgery

The surgical procedure for a platysmaplasty, or neck lift, generally requires two to three hours to complete. It begins with incisions made near the ears and chin to provide surgical access to modify the neck's structure. This can include the tightening of the platysma muscle and the removal of targeted skin and fat tissue, with the intended purpose of altering the neck's shape and appearance.
  • Surgery Time
    1 to 4 hours
  • Hospital Time
    Day stay with an option for overnight depending on technique used

Recovery

After surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for a few hours. Most patients can go home the same day, but sometimes an overnight hospital stay is required. A bandage might be gently placed around your face and neck to minimize swelling and bruising.

Swelling and bruising are normal and will begin to improve after the third day. Most patients feel ready to go out in public and return to work or school after a week or two.

Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery. The final result of your neck lift may not be apparent for several months, as it takes time for the neck to fully heal and settle into its new shape.
  • Time off work
    Working from home after 1 week, back in office after 3 weeks - Occupation Dependent
  • Cast Removal
    Face garment for one to two weeks depending on technique used
  • Exercise
    4 to 6 weeks
  • Showering
    Can shower next day, however incisions must stay dry
  • Driving
    24 hours after general anaesthetic and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 14 days for national and 4 weeks for international
  • Full Recovery
    6 to 12 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?

Dr Michael Zacharia

MBBS, FRACS, FAAFPS, ACCS
Dr Michael Zacharia is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Head and Neck (Otolaryngology) and practices in Facial Plastic Surgery. He is also an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and has completed over 8,000 procedures, with over 4,000 being Rhinoplasty. Combining the latest medical, surgical and health techniques, Dr Zacharia strives to deliver the best outcome for each and every one of his patients.
Cosmetic Surgeon & ENT Specialist
MED0001178357

Contact us

Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Nick Lift Surgery risks

  • Post-Surgical Pain: Neck lift surgery may lead to significant pain or discomfort, requiring proper pain management strategies.
  • Risk of Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there's a possibility of developing a postoperative infection, which might require additional treatments.
  • Visible Scarring: Despite the surgeon's best efforts to place incisions discreetly, any surgical procedure, including neck lifts, can result in noticeable scarring. Some patients may develop hypertrophic or keloid scars.
  • Hematoma or Seroma: There's a risk of developing a hematoma (a collection of blood) or a seroma (a collection of serous fluid) beneath the skin of the neck, which might require additional medical procedures.
  • Nerve Damage: Neck lift surgery could potentially result in temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to altered sensation or muscle weakness in the neck.
  • Dissatisfying Cosmetic Outcome: The patient may not be satisfied with the aesthetic results of the surgery, necessitating further corrective procedures.
  • Skin Necrosis: Particularly in patients who smoke or have other health risk factors, there's a small chance of skin necrosis, or tissue death, which can impact the healing process and the final results.

AHPRA Registration

  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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