Neck Liposuction FAQ's: Plastic Surgery: Rochester, New York

Neck Liposuction Before & After Photos
Neck Liposuction Procedure Information

NECK LIPOSUCTION PREOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

NECK LIPOSUCTION POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

NECK LIPOSUCTION

1) "How do I know if I need neck liposuction or a facelift or both?"
Before and After Photos
Neck liposuction alone (without a facelift) can be used very effectively in select patients. Typically (not always) submental (hey, what's that word mean? sub = under / mentum = chin / submental = under the chin) liposuction alone is indicated for younger patients with excellent skin elasticity and very little excess skin or jowling. Facelift is performed to address sagging skin or jowling. Skin resurfacing addresses fine wrinkles and textural (surface) skin imperfections. The best results are often obtained with a combination of liposuction, facelift and skin resurfacing because elimination of fat (making it available for fat injections in the smile lines if needed), excess skin and textural wrinkles are addressed simultaneously.

One sign of a good board certified facial plastic surgeon is one who can tell the difference between realistic and unrealistic expectations from submental liposuction and one who will be truthful about meeting each patient's desires. Our biggest referral source is from satisfied patients - ones who have had realistic expectations and were satisfied with results.

2) How long will neck liposuction last?
Typically five to ten years, although neck liposuction results are variable based on weight changes (30 lbs. or more), general health, genetics and general skin care to name a few. For neck liposuction patients who maintain their health, ten years is not unrealistic.

3) Does weight loss or weight gain affect the amount of neck fat I have?
Changes in weight of 30 pounds or more will effect the results of neck liposuction.

4) What about my droopy double chin and jowls?
Most patients undergo neck liposuction at the same time as facelift. This has several advantages. It allows us to use the fat in another area for cosmetic enhancement (such as for lip augmentation) while simultaneously reducing the bulky area around the neck. Removing the excess fat under the chin and neck results in a more defined neckline. Tightening the muscles as well as the skin eliminates jowling resulting in a more clearly defined jaw line. Most patients are very pleased with neck liposuction results when combined with facelift to address double chin and jowls. Neck liposuction alone has very little beneficial affect on the excess skin that creates double chin or jowls.

5) Will neck liposuction help with my wrinkles?
As we stated above, neck liposuction is indicated for patients with excellent skin elasticity and very little skin damage from the sun or premature aging. Neck liposuction may provide a little improvement however it will not meet the expectations of most patients whose primary concern is wrinkles. It is most common that patients with superficial wrinkles and/or jowling are better served with a combination of plastic surgery procedures that may include facelift, submental liposuction with possibly skin resurfacing. Keep in mind that similar to liposuction, a facelift is not performed to address the surface or textural changes (such as fine wrinkles) in the skin.

6) Do I need a chin implant? It is not uncommon for patients who are learning about neck liposuction to gain an appreciation for the underlying principles of beauty, including symmetry and balance. One of the benefits of computer imaging is the ability for the plastic surgeon to give you a good idea ahead of time about the overall balance of your face, including whether you are a candidate for a chin implant would look. If your chin appears balanced with the forehead and face, you do not need to consider a chin implant. Chin implant surgery can be performed through the same incision used for neck liposuction.

7) Will I still look like "me?"
Will I still look like "me" after my neck liposuction surgery? Many of our patients report that, upon return to work and routine daily activities, friends and acquaintances make the following remarks: "Gee you look great. Did you change your hairstyle?" or "Have you been on vacation?" Retaining your uniqueness is the sign of a successful plastic surgery procedure. Although the change may be significant to you, it's not uncommon that friends and family don't really notice the specific changes unless patients request dramatic changes.

8) I had a neck liposuction somewhere else and I don't like my result. Can you "fix" it?
Most likely. Again, this question can best be answered on an individual basis. Less than satisfactory results from a neck liposuction can result from a wide range of causes - including unrealistic expectations of what neck liposuction can accomplish, postoperative complications or poor technique on the part of the plastic surgeon to name a few. Corrective measures are often determined based on the cause.

First of all, final results of cosmetic surgery are not evaluated until one full year postoperatively. It takes a year for postoperative swelling to subside and healing to be complete. Changes, however subtle, continue throughout the 12-month course. As time goes by, features refine as the swelling resolves. These refinements sometimes are enough for a result to be deemed acceptable.

A second consideration is scar formation. Revision cosmetic surgery for neck liposuction is challenging enough without battling through scar tissue that has not matured. Scar tissue is somewhat more compliant in the hands of the plastic surgeon when it has been allowed to soften over time. Even after a year the presence of scar tissue makes revision plastic surgery more complex.

If a plastic surgeon recommends revision cosmetic surgery at less than one year, at the very least obtain a second opinion. Give your original neck liposuction surgery every possible opportunity to "settle" and refine before undergoing another surgery.

9) Why is a revision cosmetic surgery more difficult than a first-time surgery?
Many reasons. First, after any cosmetic surgery, scar formation creates a thick, tough layer that is more difficult to work with than original tissue. Second, the original location of (anatomical) landmarks have been altered. Third, the overall skill level required to perform a successful revision is greater. Revision plastic surgery can take a little longer because of corrections that need to be made as a result of the initial plastic surgery. It is best to provide a patient with a realistic picture of exactly what can be accomplished prior to undergoing another surgery. Revision cosmetic surgery has humbled even the most experienced board certified facial plastic surgeon and - at the same time - has been the most rewarding.

10) How much pain will I have after neck liposuction surgery?
Most patients who have neck liposuction tell us how surprised they are at how mild the discomfort is that they experience. Patients more typically complain of tightness from swelling or a pulling sensation under the chin. Understandably, after any plastic surgery procedure, some discomfort can be expected. All patients are provided with prescriptions for pain medication. Patients sometimes use the prescription medication two to three days after surgery and then switch to Extra Strength Tylenol. It is uncommon for patients to report unmanageable pain after neck liposuction surgery.

11) Tell me about the numbness associated with a neck liposuction.
Numbness, especially near the incision lines, is most noticeable in the immediate postoperative period. Many patients report resolution of numbness within about six weeks postoperatively although patients are told to expect it to lasts up to three months.

12) Will I be awake during neck liposuction surgery?
Using IV sedation (medicine administered through an IV) and a local anesthetic (numbing medication administered in the operating room), patients are asleep during their neck liposuction surgery. Patients do not hear or feel anything and are comfortable during the operation. Patients wake up very soon after the surgery is completed. Intravenous sedation is a type of anesthesia; therefore all patients must have a responsible adult to stay with them through the night following neck liposuction surgery. Patients may not drive for 24 hours after their procedure and this time may be longer, depending on the procedure.

13) Do I go home after my plastic surgery?
Yes, neck liposuction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Because you will go home after receiving sedation, you will need to make arrangements for a responsible adult to drive you home, to stay with you overnight and to drive you to our office for your first postoperative neck liposuction appointment. Your first appointment is usually early in the morning on third postoperative day. It is strongly recommended that patients having cosmetic surgery stay in the immediate Rochester NY area overnight within 30 minutes of our East Avenue facility.

14) How long should I stay in Rochester New York following neck liposuction surgery?
Most patients stay in Rochester NY about seven to ten days following their neck liposuction surgery. After that it's OK to fly or travel long distances.

15) I'm from out of town. Where can I stay overnight in Rochester NY?
Accommodations are comfortable and convenient for Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery clients. The Strathallan, located "just down the street" provides upscale, affordable accommodations for Lindsay House visitors. For added convenience following plastic surgery, some patients elect to stay in our Carriage House, located adjacent to the Lindsay House. For guests without the benefit of family or friends in the Rochester NY area, our staff will be happy to assist you with arrangements for a smooth, restful experience following your plastic surgery procedures.

16) When can I go back to work after neck liposuction surgery?
Restrictions from work are generally one to two weeks for neck liposuction surgery. Because initial surgery swelling may still be present, patients that are especially concerned with privacy elect to take three weeks off to be safe.

17) When can I "work out?"
Aerobic activities should be avoided for three weeks following your neck liposuction surgery. Any activity that potentially increases blood pressure will increase the amount of time it takes for postoperative swelling to resolve.

18) How long will bruising and swelling last?
Postoperative bruising and swelling begins to resolve at the end of the first week. Full resolution of bruising or swelling may take two to three weeks after neck liposuction surgery. However, you may camouflage bruises fairly easily at seven to ten days with concealer stick.

19) I really want to have neck liposuction surgery but I'm nervous. What if I get stressed?
It's ok to be nervous. (Frankly, we would be nervous if you were taking this step lightly!) One of the best ways to deal with nervousness is to see what other patients have gone through who have had neck liposuction surgery. Take a moment to look at Before and After Photos and read our Patient Diary where patients share their experience with cosmetic surgery. Check out our board certifications in Selecting a Plastic Surgeon. Remember, an educated patient knows when and if the time is right to proceed.

NECK LIPOSUCTION PREOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

1) What do I do to prepare for neck liposuction surgery?
Although the preparation for neck liposuction surgery is pretty simple, it is an essential element in a successful outcome. To prepare for your plastic surgery, a preoperative appointment will be scheduled with one of our experienced nurses. Read on if you would like to know more about the preparation and postoperative care involved with neck liposuction.

2) What happens at the preoperative neck liposuction appointment?
Many things! To name a few, you will meet with our nurses who review your health history, answer your questions, instruct you on how to prepare for neck liposuction surgery, provide prescriptions for use after surgery and tell you what to expect. Most of the instructions are listed here below. This list of questions, however, will not take the place of a preoperative visit, which is essential in determining a patient's understanding and readiness for neck liposuction surgery. We will be sure you are signing an informed consent.

3) What does informed consent mean?
Informed consent means you have an excellent understanding about the benefits of neck liposuction surgery as well as any risks, and all the preoperative and postoperative information. You are making an "informed" decision as to whether plastic surgery is right for you.

4) What are the benefits and risks of a neck liposuction?
As part of your initial consultation, your physician will review your expectations for surgery. At that time, the plastic surgeon can provide a realistic picture of what neck liposuction surgery can and cannot accomplish. Depending on which procedures you are interested in, we will provide you with a list of any risks reported in the medical literature associated with all procedures you are considering. Although risks from cosmetic surgery are uncommon, every patient should be fully informed of any risk associated with plastic surgery.

5) Where will my incisions be for neck liposuction surgery?
Incisions for neck liposuction are placed low and behind each ear and tucked just under the chin. Because incisions are placed in a natural skin crease, they heal very well and most patients and family members will not notice them after a few weeks.

6) What if I have a history of bad scars?
If you have pierced ears, the way you healed there is a good indication of how you will heal from facial plastic surgery. Scars on the rest of the body typically are not an indication for how patients heal following plastic surgery. At the time of your consultation, it's important to show your plastic surgeon any previous scars that are of concern to you so he can give you a realistic assessment of your healing potential following facial plastic surgery.

7) What are some of the other things to do to prepare for neck liposuction surgery?
We review your health history and any daily medications you may be taking. Because tobacco abuse impedes wound healing, you will be asked to stop for two weeks before surgery and two weeks following neck liposuction surgery. Our nurses will be happy to discuss over-the-counter aids to help you with this.

8) What about my daily medications before neck liposuction surgery?
You will have a preoperative neck liposuction appointment well in advance of your surgery when our experienced staff will review all mediations with you. If you are on "blood thinners," you will be asked to stop them approximately one week prior to neck liposuction surgery. We also ask that you avoid certain over-the-counter medications. We will provide a "Medication List" for medications and supplements to avoid prior to your plastic surgery.

9) I take vitamins and supplements. Do I need to stop them before neck liposuction surgery?
Most vitamins and supplements have few side effects. However, there are some, such as vitamin E and ginkgo-biloba, that affect bleeding during surgery. Also, because there are now so many supplements available, we do not know how supplements interact with anesthesia. We will provide a "Medication List" for products to avoid before surgery.

10) Do I need any special prescriptions before neck liposuction surgery?
Most patients do not need any special prescriptions before neck liposuction surgery. Please let us know of any special medical concerns you may have. (We will address prescriptions needed after surgery below.) You will also be instructed not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before neck liposuction surgery.

11) Why will I be asked not to eat or drink anything before my neck liposuction surgery?
Anesthesia medications can cause stomach upset. The best way to prevent after effects from anesthesia will be to avoid food or drink from midnight the night before neck liposuction surgery. For patients with special concerns, such as a patient with diabetes, our nurses will be happy to address special arrangements with you ahead of time.

12) I'm concerned about my privacy?
During a recent independent study (requested by parties not associated with Lindsay House), confidentiality was found to be one of the advantages that attracted people most to Lindsay House. Because all cosmetic consultations, office visits, surgical and nonsurgical experiences take place at the same address, the check-in process is pretty easy.

13) What happens when I check in for neck liposuction surgery?
Our nurses will help you get ready for neck liposuction surgery. You will have an IV and change into a gown. Please let our nurses know of any special needs you may have. Also, be assured that you have plenty of time for any last minute questions with your plastic surgeon.

14) Does someone have to stay at the Lindsay House while I have my neck liposuction surgery?
No one needs to stay at the Lindsay House during your surgery. However, you must have someone available by telephone at all times during your plastic surgery.

15) What other instructions are there?
Glad you asked! See the postoperative neck liposuction instructions below.

NECK LIPOSUCTION POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

1) What does it feel like when I wake up from cosmetic surgery?
Most neck liposuction patients report only mild to moderate discomfort associated with some tightness or pulling. This pulling sensation, most noticeable under the chin, subsides after about three weeks. We will make sure you are not nauseated or queasy. Our nurses will be right there with you as you wake up from neck liposuction surgery to give you special attention.

2) What do I look like when I wake up from neck liposuction surgery?
Following the neck liposuction procedure, you will have a soft head wrap around your head and under your chin. This helps minimize swelling. The head wrap will be removed the following morning and the chin dressing will be removed in the office on approximately postoperative neck liposuction day four. A removable elastic (ace) bandage will be gently applied to minimize swelling. You may have some bruising, however, this typically is more pronounced 24-48 hours after the neck liposuction procedure.

3) Can I do anything to prevent bruising after my neck liposuction surgery?
Most patents will have a little bruising. We can minimize bruising by using Arnica before and after the plastic surgery procedure. Arnica is a natural "herb" that helps prevent bruising.

4) Tell me more about the sutures for neck liposuction surgery.
The sutures near your ears will require some simple care. We will ask you to use a Q-tip to cleanse them with peroxide and apply an antibiotic ointment (polysporin/bacitracin) twice a day to keep the sutures soft. In four to five days, when the time arrives for suture removal, sutures that have been lubricated glide out easily.

5) When can I shower?
Other than the wound care mentioned, it is important to keep the sutures dry. It is very important that you take a shower and wash your hair the morning before coming in for suture removal on postoperative day four or five. Once we remove the sutures, steri-strips (butterflies) are applied and you will not be allowed to get them wet for about three more days. As long as you keep your head dry, you may bathe or shower at any time following the neck liposuction procedure.

6) Will I need any special prescriptions following neck liposuction surgery?
Yes. Postoperative neck liposuction prescriptions are provided well in advance of surgery day so you arrive home completely prepared. Postoperative prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for patients include the following:

A) An antibiotic (Keflex/cephalexin) to take after surgery to prevent infection.
B) Pain medication (Vicodin/hydrocodone) to minimize any discomfort.
C) Ointment (polysporin/bacitracin)to place on the sutures.
D) As previously mentioned, over-the-counter Arnica to minimize bruising.
E) Vitamin C 1000 mg with food for one week following neck liposuction surgery to promote healing.

7) When do I start taking these prescriptions?
Patients take their pain medication as needed. The Arnica, antibiotic and swelling medications begin when you arrive home following neck liposuction surgery. Unless you are notified otherwise, resume all daily medications when you arrive home from neck liposuction surgery.

8) Are there any dietary restrictions following neck liposuction surgery?
No. Patients can eat whatever they want. Advance your diet from liquids (fruit juice, milk shakes with Carnation Instant Breakfast, etc.) to soft food (pudding, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, oatmeal, pasta) to solids as tolerated. To prevent dehydration, please drink as much juices and nutritional fluid as possible.

9) When is my first postoperative neck liposuction appointment?
You will be asked to come to the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery on the fourth day following neck liposuction for removal of dressing. You will need someone to drive you to this cosmetic appointment.

10) Are there any instructions about regular daily activities?
Sleep with head of the bed elevated or use two to three pillows for one week. Facial fullness, headache and disrupted sleep are very normal postoperative symptoms and will decrease as the healing process occurs. Absolutely no bending, lifting or straining. If you have little children, bend at the knees or sit on the floor and let them climb on to your lap.

11) When will I look normal?
You will be presentable at two to three weeks after neck liposuction surgery. You will look great at six weeks and even better at six months as things settle and expressions become more natural. At three weeks after neck liposuction you know you are well on the way to recovery and most patients resume routine activities around two to three weeks following plastic surgery. Final results are evaluated at one year.

12) How long does healing take?
Healing to evaluate the final result takes one full year after neck liposuction surgery. However, after three months, most patients have about 90% of their final result.

13) How can I learn more about cosmetic surgery?
Several ways. First, Contact Us or call 1-585-244-1000 for any specific questions. If our Patient Care Coordinator can't answer them, she will gladly forward them to the appropriate plastic surgeon or staff member.

Neck Liposuction Before & After Photos
Neck Liposuction Procedure Information