How Long Will a Neck Lift Last?

A neck lift can improve the visible signs of aging along the neck and jawline. It can treat excess fat and skin on the neck, excess fat in the chin, and muscle banding around the neck. A neck lift provides a more youthful appearance and firms any loose or sagging skin you may have. But how long does it last? And is there anything you can do to keep the results longer? 

How Long Does A Neck Lift Last?

When you have a neck lift, generally, you can expect the results to last between 10-15 years. However, there are factors that can affect longevity, such as genetics, age, sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, weight fluctuation, etc. 

A neck lift will turn back the clock, but it won’t stop aging completely. You may feel you look anywhere from 5, 10, 15 or even 20 years younger after the procedure, depending on how severe the signs of aging were before surgery.

What To Do After A Neck Lift

One way to ensure your neck lift results last is to follow your doctor’s recommendations for what to do after the procedure. You will likely have some bruising and swelling and may need to wear a special compression garment around the neck to reduce swelling and ensure the underlying tissues heal properly. It is important to keep your head elevated for several days post-surgery. 

What To Avoid After A Neck Lift

There are also certain things you shouldn’t do after the procedure to avoid complications and ensure your results are the best they can possibly be. 

  • Lifting heavy items for the first few weeks
  • Physical activity will also be limited for a period of time as you recover
  • Exposing your neck to direct sunlight in the first few weeks after surgery
  • Smoking 

How Can I Make My Neck Lift Results Last Longer?

Eat A Healthy Diet

Drinking plenty of water and eating lots of protein, healthy fats, and a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables can not only keep your body healthy but also your skin. These healthy foods all contain vitamins and minerals which your body uses to keep your cells and skin healthy.

Excessive alcohol intake, tobacco use, and a diet high in refined sugars and starches can interfere with collagen production and cause your skin to sag prematurely. 

Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep also helps your entire body stay healthy including your skin. Too little rest can accelerate aging prematurely as it doesn’t allow enough time for the skin to produce the collagen it needs to stay looking young, smooth, and firm.

Exercise 

You’ll want to be sure to exercise regularly and try to balance aerobic exercise and weight training. It increases your blood flow and helps to nourish the skin cells. The blood carries oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, including the skin cells which can keep your skin looking healthy and rejuvenated. Additionally, blood flow carries away waste (like free radicals) from skin cells which can keep your skin in its best shape possible.

Good Skincare Routine

A good skincare routine can also be vital to keeping up the results of a neck lift. But while most of us know to apply products to our faces, it can be easy to forget to take those products down to the neck as well. Your neck needs SPF and UV protection just as much as your face does. Make sure to regularly apply sunscreen. Products with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and collagen can be helpful as well.

Schedule A Consultation

Have you been considering getting a neck lift? Dr. Cruise at Cruise Plastic Surgery is more than happy to discuss the procedure and any questions or concerns you may have. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience.

To schedule a consultation today, call our Newport Beach, CA office at (949) 446-1421 or use our online scheduling form.