What is a Necklift?

A necklift is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the neck and jawline by addressing signs of aging, such as sagging skin, excess fat, jowls, and vertical muscle bands (platysmal bands). At Nairobi Sculpt Aesthetic Centre, Dr. Mukami Gathariki employs advanced techniques, such as deep plane or SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) manipulation, to create a smooth, defined neck contour that enhances facial harmony. This procedure effectively eliminates "turkey neck," reduces a "double chin," and restores a youthful appearance to the lower face and neck, with results that look natural and balanced.

The necklift is highly customizable, tailored to each patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, with incisions strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. It is ideal for individuals seeking a refined neck profile and improved jawline definition.

Benefits of a Necklift

• Defined Jawline and Neck Contour: Restores a sharp, youthful angle to the neck and jaw, eliminating sagging or jowls.
• Enhanced Facial Harmony: Balances the lower face and neck for a cohesive, rejuvenated appearance.
• Elimination of Excess Skin and Fat: Removes "turkey neck" and submental fat for a sleeker profile.
• Reduction of Neck Bands: Smooths vertical platysmal bands for a tighter, more toned neck.
• Long-Lasting Results: Provides durable outcomes (10–15 years) with proper skincare and lifestyle maintenance.
• Minimal Scarring: Uses discreet incisions behind the ears and under the chin, which fade significantly over time.

Who is a Candidate for a Necklift?

Necklift surgery is suitable for individuals who:

• Are in good general health with no uncontrolled conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
• Have visible signs of aging in the neck, such as sagging skin, excess fat, jowls, or platysmal bands.
• Are bothered by a "double chin," "turkey neck," or lack of jawline definition.
• Are typically aged 40–70, though younger patients with genetic predisposition to neck sagging may qualify.
• Have realistic expectations and are committed to postoperative care for optimal healing.
• Are non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery to ensure proper recovery.
• Do not have active skin infections, bleeding disorders, or conditions that impair healing.

During a consultation, Dr. Mukami will assess your neck and facial anatomy, review your medical history, and discuss your goals to determine if a necklift is the best approach, possibly recommending complementary procedures for enhanced results.

Necklift Techniques

Dr. Mukami offers a range of necklift techniques, customized to address specific concerns:

• Traditional Necklift: Involves incisions behind the ears and under the chin to tighten skin, remove or reposition fat, and address muscle laxity (SMAS plication or platysmaplasty) for comprehensive rejuvenation.
• Lower Facelift with Necklift: Combines neck rejuvenation with lifting of the lower face to address jowls and midface sagging, ensuring a seamless transition.
• Submental Liposuction-Only Necklift: Focuses on removing excess fat under the chin or neck via small incisions, ideal for younger patients with good skin elasticity.
• Platysmaplasty: Tightens the platysma muscle through a small submental incision to eliminate vertical neck bands and improve contour.
• Mini Necklift: A less invasive option with shorter incisions, suitable for patients with mild to moderate sagging and minimal fat.

Dr. Mukami selects the technique based on your skin quality, fat distribution, muscle tone, and desired outcomes, ensuring natural-looking results with minimal downtime.

The Necklift Procedure

Necklift surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, typically taking 2–4 hours:

1. Preoperative Consultation: Dr. Mukami evaluates your anatomy, discusses goals, and creates a surgical plan. Patients are advised to avoid blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) and smoking for 2–4 weeks prior.
2. Anesthesia: Administered to ensure comfort and safety during the procedure.
3. Incisions: Small, discreet incisions are made behind the ears and/or under the chin, hidden in natural creases or hairlines to minimize visible scarring.
4. Fat Sculpting: Excess fat is removed via liposuction or manually sculpted to enhance the neck and jawline contour.
5. Muscle Tightening: The platysma muscle is tightened (platysmaplasty) or the SMAS layer is adjusted to eliminate bands and improve definition.
6. Skin Redraping: Excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is gently redraped for a smooth, natural appearance without tension.
7. Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a compression garment is applied to reduce swelling and support healing.
8. Postoperative Care: Patients receive detailed instructions and may stay overnight for monitoring if combined with other procedures.

Dr. Mukami’s precise techniques and focus on tissue preservation minimize trauma, reduce recovery time, and promote optimal aesthetic outcomes.

Risks and Considerations

While necklift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, potential risks include:

• Swelling and Bruising: Common for 1–2 weeks, resolving with proper care.
• Hematoma: Rare accumulation of blood under the skin, which may require drainage.
• Nerve Irritation: Temporary numbness or tingling in the neck, typically resolving within weeks to months.
• Infection: Rare with proper sterile technique and postoperative antibiotics.
• Scarring: Minimal and well-hidden, though keloid-prone patients may require additional scar management.
• Asymmetry or Overcorrection: Rare with Dr. Mukami’s expertise, addressed through careful planning and follow-up.

Dr. Mukami minimizes risks through meticulous surgical technique, preoperative optimization, and comprehensive aftercare, ensuring patient safety and satisfaction.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a necklift varies by patient and technique, with most resuming normal activities within 2–3 weeks:

• First 48 Hours: Rest with head elevated to reduce swelling. Mild discomfort is managed with prescribed pain medication.
• Days 3–7: Swelling and bruising peak, then begin to subside. A compression garment is worn to support healing. Avoid strenuous activities.
• Weeks 1–2: Sutures are removed (if non-dissolvable), and patients can return to light work or social activities. Bruising fades, and the neck’s contour improves.
• Weeks 3–4: Most swelling resolves, and patients can resume exercise with clearance. Scars begin to soften and fade.
• Months 3–6: Final results emerge as residual swelling subsides and tissues settle. Scars continue to mature over 6–12 months.
• Long-Term: Results last 10–15 years with proper skincare, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Mukami’s aftercare instructions include:

• Wearing a compression garment for 1–2 weeks to minimize swelling and support tissues.
• Avoiding neck twisting, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise for 4–6 weeks.
• Protecting incisions from sun exposure with SPF 30+ to reduce scarring.
• Using gentle skincare and avoiding irritants (e.g., retinols, acids) for 2–4 weeks.
• Considering lymphatic drainage massage to accelerate swelling reduction.
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address concerns.

Combining Necklift with Other Procedures

For comprehensive facial rejuvenation, a necklift can be combined with:

• Facelift: Addresses midface and jowl sagging for a harmonious, full-face rejuvenation.
• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Rejuvenates the upper or lower eyelids to complement the neck and jawline.
• Chin Augmentation or Fat Grafting: Enhances jawline definition or restores volume for balanced proportions.
• Browlift: Lifts the forehead and brows to complete upper facial rejuvenation.
• Non-Surgical Treatments: Botox to smooth neck bands or dynamic wrinkles, fillers for volume, or laser resurfacing for skin texture.
• Micro-Needling or Chemical Peels: Improves skin quality and radiance post-surgery, typically after full healing.

Dr. Mukami will design a tailored treatment plan during your consultation, ensuring safe and effective combinations to achieve your aesthetic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do necklift results last? Results typically last 10–15 years, though natural aging continues. Maintaining a stable weight, healthy diet, and skincare routine can prolong outcomes.
• Will I have visible scars? Incisions are discreetly placed behind the ears and under the chin, fading to near-invisibility within 6–12 months for most patients.
• Is a necklift painful? Mild discomfort, swelling, and tightness are common, managed with pain medication and typically resolving within 1–2 weeks.
• Can a necklift be performed without a facelift? Yes, a necklift can be a standalone procedure if the face does not require rejuvenation, focusing solely on the neck and jawline.
• Are there non-surgical alternatives to a necklift? Options like Kybella (fat-dissolving injections), Ultherapy (ultrasound tightening), or Botox for neck bands may work for mild concerns but are less effective for significant sagging or muscle laxity.
• How much does a necklift cost? Costs vary based on the technique, anesthesia, and combined procedures. Contact Nairobi Sculpt Aesthetic Centre at +254 720 626 037 for a personalized quote.