Gravity, sun exposure, modern life stress, smoking and genetic disposition are responsible for the first signs of ageing, which are more obvious on face and neck. Skin loosens, muscles relax, wrinkles and folds occur, giving a 'sad and tired' look. The jaw line looses its smoothness and firmness, resulting to jowls and fat deposits around the neck. Substantial weight and fat loss in later life can give the effect of ageing on the face and neck.
Facelift and necklift can correct the image of face and neck either alone or in combination with other procedures such as liposuction, eyelid surgery, forehead lift etc. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or even under sedation and requires overnight stay at the hospital. Incisions are placed on the back of the ear extended usually to the lower scalp and in a natural line in front of the ear (if necessary). Sometimes a small incision may also be made under the chin. Through the incisions the skin is dissected away from the underlying fat and muscles. The extra fat may be trimmed or suctioned to improve the neck contour while the muscles are tightened. Finally, the skin is redraped and the excess of it is excised and stitched back with very fine stitches while in the scalp wounds metal clips may be used. Drains (small thin tubes) are usually placed through the incisions for 24-72 hours and head bandage is used to prevent swelling.
Necklift is in general a well tolerated procedure with insignificant postoperative discomfort, easily treated with prescribed painkillers. Bruising and swelling are expected and they will gradually improve in a couple of weeks. Complications are minor and infrequent, and they might include haematoma, infection and temporary injury to the nerves that control facial muscles. Most patients are back to everyday activities in 5-7 days and to work in about 10 days to two weeks after the operation.
