There are several surgical techniques available to address concerns such as loose skin, muscle banding, and excess fat in the neck. Among these, the deep plane neck lift and the traditional neck lift are two distinct approaches. While both procedures aim at making changes on the neck’s appearance, they differ in methodology, recovery, and other aspects.
This blog shares general information about the key differences between these techniques to help you better understand your options and start a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Technique
Traditional Neck Lift: The traditional neck lift focuses on tightening the skin and underlying tissues. Surgeons typically make incisions around the ears, sometimes extending under the chin, to remove excess skin and reposition the remaining tissue. This method primarily targets surface-level concerns like loose skin.
Deep Plane Neck Lift: The deep plane neck lift goes a step further by addressing deeper layers of tissue, including the underlying muscles and fascia. Instead of solely lifting and tightening the skin, this technique repositions the deeper structures of the neck and jawline. The incisions may be similar to those of a traditional neck lift but allow for greater manipulation of deeper tissues.
Recovery
Recovery experiences and timelines can vary significantly from person to person. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and expectations regarding your recovery process.
Traditional Neck Lift Recovery: Recovery from a traditional neck lift typically involves a moderate healing period. Swelling and bruising are common in the initial weeks, and some individuals, with their surgeon’s advice, may resume light activities after about two weeks. Full recovery may take several weeks to months, depending on individual circumstances and post-operative care.
Deep Plane Neck Lift Recovery: A deep plane neck lift often requires a longer recovery period due to the involvement of deeper tissues. Swelling may persist for an extended time, and the healing process might take slightly longer compared to a traditional neck lift. However, the recovery timeline can vary based on factors like overall health, age, and adherence to post-operative guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
Longevity
Traditional Neck Lift: The results of a traditional neck lift are typically long-lasting but may not address deeper structural concerns that contribute to ageing. Over time, natural changes in the body may affect the neck area, potentially leading to the reappearance of loose skin or laxity.
Deep Plane Neck Lift: A deep plane neck lift is designed to create more enduring changes by repositioning deeper structures. While no surgical procedure can stop the ageing process, this technique is often associated with results that may appear more natural and longer-lasting.
Risks
As with any surgical procedure, both types of neck lifts carry risks. These may include swelling, bruising, infection, scarring, or complications related to anesthesia. The risks can vary based on the specific technique used, your overall health, and the expertise of your surgeon. Consulting with a qualified professional is essential to understanding the potential risks and benefits specific to your situation.
Choosing The Right Option For You
Deciding between a deep plane neck lift and a traditional neck lift requires a personalised consultation with a qualified professional. You will also need to provide a GP referral and complete a BDD screening before moving forward with any cosmetic procedures. If you want to learn more about these procedures, reach out to our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras. He can assess your goals, anatomy, and overall health to recommend the most suitable approach. Schedule a consultation today.
Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.
Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:
Level V: How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.
The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.