Does a Facelift Include the Neck?
One of the most common questions patients ask when considering facial rejuvenation surgery is whether a facelift also addresses the neck. This confusion is understandable, as aging affects both areas simultaneously, often creating similar concerns, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and loss of definition. While traditional facelifts include some neck enhancement, it is crucial to understand that the extent of these corrections can vary depending on the specific technique used and patient needs.
Deep plane facelift represents the most advanced surgical technique for addressing cosmetic issues, going beyond the superficial adjustments of traditional methods. This sophisticated approach targets the deeper structural layers of facial tissues, allowing surgeons to restore fallen fat pads and muscles to their original, more youthful state. Unlike other techniques that primarily address loose skin through pulling and tightening, the deep plane method creates more natural-looking results by releasing and repositioning ligaments, leading to longer-lasting outcomes. This comprehensive approach is particularly beneficial for patients with significant facial aging, as it simultaneously addresses multiple layers of tissue, resulting in a more three-dimensional rejuvenation that avoids the stretched or artificial appearance associated with traditional techniques.
Neck lifts can be performed as standalone treatments for patients whose primary cosmetic concerns are concentrated in the lower area. This specialized approach addresses common neck-related issues, such as “turkey neck,” excess fat deposits, and prominent platysmal bands that create an aged appearance in the neck region. During the procedure, surgeons typically make small incisions behind the ears and under the chin, allowing them to tighten the platysma muscle, remove or redistribute fat, and eliminate redundant skin. While many patients benefit from combining neck procedures with facial rejuvenation, those with relatively good facial skin quality may find that a dedicated neck lift alone provides the refined contours they desire.
Dr. Freeman’s signature approach to facial rejuvenation combines advanced facelift and neck lift procedures that go beyond traditional techniques. His innovative “three-layer lift” methodology addresses aging signs comprehensively by working with multiple tissues, mainly focusing on the deep plane of the face, which helps avoid the “pulled” or “windswept” look that can occur with conventional surgeries. Dr. Freeman achieves natural-looking volume restoration by addressing excess fat and glandular tissue through precise liposculpture under the jawline and strategic repositioning of the cheek’s malar fat pads. This sophisticated combination of techniques allows for harmonious rejuvenation of both the face and neck, resulting in outcomes that appear refreshed and youthful rather than surgically altered. The comprehensive nature of his approach ensures that the transition between face and neck remains smooth and natural.
When considering facial rejuvenation, it is essential to understand the distinction between surgical and non-surgical options. Each of these approaches offers different benefits and limitations. While non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers, Botox, or thread lifts can provide temporary improvement and are ideal for mild to moderate aging concerns, they cannot achieve dramatic, long-lasting results. Surgical options, such as facelifts and neck lifts, offer comprehensive correction of sagging tissues, muscle laxity, and excess skin. The decision between these approaches should be based on several factors, including the severity of aging signs, desired longevity of results, recovery time considerations, and your comfort level with invasive procedures. Dr. Freeman can help weigh these factors to determine which solutions better align with your goals and lifestyle.
Your doctor’s expertise is perhaps the most critical factor in achieving optimal results from your cosmetic treatment. As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial procedures, Dr. Freeman brings extensive experience and refined technical skills to each operation. His deep understanding of anatomy and advanced techniques, particularly his signature three-layer lift approach, enables him to customize procedures to each individual’s unique facial structure and aging patterns. When choosing a surgeon, we recommend reviewing their specialized training, before-and-after photos, and patient testimonials to ensure they have a proven track record of achieving natural-looking results.
Many patients benefit from combining their facelift and neck procedures with complementary treatments for more comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Freeman often recommends his innovative SOOF lift blepharoplasty, a revolutionary form of eyelid surgery he developed in the 1990s. It addresses aging around the eyes by repositioning descended fat pads rather than removing them. This advanced technique produces more natural-looking results and longer-lasting improvements than traditional methods, effectively eliminating the hollow appearance that often occurs under the eyes with aging. Additional procedures, such as brow lifts or skin resurfacing, can be performed simultaneously with the facelift to achieve harmonious rejuvenation, ensuring that all areas maintain balanced proportions.
