Neck Liposuction
Lipoplasty, also named liposuction or liposculpture,
is a surgical procedure designed to remove deposits
of excess fat to create a desired body contour. Liposuction
of the neck can give this area a new streamlined contour,
enhancing the effect of facial features and improving
the profile.
The face and neck are usually the first features we
notice when we meet someone new, therefore, improvements
in this area can create a dramatic change. A firm, trim
neck gives the face a more youthful appearance.
How is neck liposuction performed?
In general, liposuction procedures use small incisions
in selected areas with a high vacuum to remove fat cells.
After the fat is removed, sutures (stitches) will be
applied to the areas treated. Thereafter a bandage or
garment will be applied to wrap the skin and minimize
the swelling.
The tumescent technique involves injecting a solution
with a local anesthetic into the areas to be treated
prior to suctioning. An incision is made near the area
from which the fat is to be removed; and a specially
designed surgical tube, called a cannula, is placed
through the incision into the fat. The cannula is attached
by flexible tubing to a vacuum pump that removes the
fat by suction as the cannula is manipulated beneath
the skin. Compared to other conventional liposuction
techniques, the tumescent technique is more precise
and accurate. This procedure minimizes blood loss, removes
more fat and has a faster recovery time.
Ultrasonic assisted lipoplasty (UAL) is a new method
of liposuction that uses ultrasound energy to liquefy
fat before it is suctioned. Because the fat is liquid
at the time that it is removed, UAL is smoother and
mechanically more efficient. In the United States, ultrasound
has been used for surgical removal of tissues, other
than fat, for more than twenty years. UAL has been used
in Europe for more than ten years. UAL also minimizes
trauma, resulting in less bruising and blood loss.
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How long does neck liposuction take?
Neck liposuction generally takes one hour to complete.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Neck liposuction is usually performed using local anesthesia
along with a light sedative to make you feel drowsy
and relaxed.
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Where is the procedure performed?
Neck liposuction is usually performed on an outpatient
basis, in the surgeon's office-based surgical suite,
an outpatient surgery center or hospital.
When can I return home and resume
normal activities?
You may return home the same day, however you have
to make arrangements for someone to drive you home and
assist you with your daily activities for the first
24 hours. Depending on the extent of the neck area treated,
most people return to work and normal activities within
a week.
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How do I prepare for neck liposuction?
During your initial consultation, your surgeon will
discuss the changes that you would like to make to your
appearance. Since the appearance of your neck is a matter
of personal perception and preference, you will need
to discuss your concerns in detail so your surgeon can
determine the appropriate alternatives. You also should
make arrangements ahead of time for someone to drive
you to and from your procedure and to assist you with
your daily activities during your recovery period.
Prior to your surgical procedure, the surgeon will
perform a complete health history and physical examination
to evaluate your overall weight, your skin and muscle
tone and the overall distribution of fat deposits. In
particular your surgeon will ask you about any problems
you have had with high blood pressure, blood clotting
or a tendency to develop large scars.
Knowledge of your allergies, medications and previous
surgeries should be brought to your surgeon's attention
at this time. Specific instructions to assist you in
preparing for this procedure will be given to you after
the health history and physical is complete. Depending
on your individual health status, the instructions may
include guidelines regarding your diet, alcohol intake,
smoking and which medications to take or avoid. Your
experience will be much smoother if you remain compliant
with your surgeon's instructions.
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What precautions are necessary during
recovery?
Immediately after surgery, you will need to continuously
wear a support garment for one to three weeks. Please
ask your surgeon for after care instructions specific
to your case, as these will assist you during your recovery
period.
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What are the possible complications
after neck liposuction?
After surgery, some patients experience dimpling, lumpiness,
numbness, scarring, discoloration, or sagging skin in
the treated area. UAL liposuction may cause friction
burns to the skin or to the internal organs. More serious
complications include blood clots, infection, excessive
fluid loss leading to shock, fluid build-up in the lungs,
and drug overdose.
No procedure is without risks; however, the majority
of complications known to be associated with a neck
liposuction are minor when the procedure is performed
by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon. It
is always important to be informed about the possible
complications before any surgery. Be sure to discuss
any concerns you may have with your surgeon.
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What results can I expect after neck
liposuction?
Your neck may be stiff and sore for a few days, and
you may experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding
or temporary numbness. If necessary, your surgeon can
prescribe medication to relieve this initial discomfort.
Your surgeon may prescribe an antibiotic ointment to
prevent infection at the incision sites. Your stitches
will be removed in a week to 10 days, unless they dissolve
on their own. You will be fitted with a compression
band to cut down on swelling and to hold your neck in
its new shape until the tissues have adjusted.
Since the normal aging process affects the firmness
and elasticity of the skin, older patients may not experience
results as dramatic as those typically achieved in younger
patients. Although liposuction cannot alter skin quality
or muscle tone, and should not be a substitute for regular
exercise and a balanced diet, your neck will always
be slimmer than it was prior to this procedure.
Neck liposuction is often performed in conjunction
with a neck lift or face lift. Most people are pleased
with the new contour of their necks and often feel a
boost in energy and self-confidence.
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Choosing the right surgeon
To obtain further information regarding ear surgery,
we advise you to consult with a qualified and experienced
board-certified plastic surgeon. Regardless of the type
of procedure you are considering, it is crucial to choose
the right surgeon for your individual goals. To receive
a complimentary consultation with a specialist in your
area, simply fill out our Online
Referral Form or call Toll
Free 800.434.6760.
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