How to Get a Younger Looking Neck

Many people pay attention to the youthful appearance of their face, but the neck is another area that is suitable for a variety of procedures that can reduce the signs of aging.  When the face and neck are addressed together, the result is an overall more youthful appearance and improved profile.  Rather than strategically concealing an aging neck with high neck clothing, scarves, and other apparel choices, patients might find more confidence by rejuvenating this area.

The neck is prone to multiple issues as we age.  As the skin on this area of the body is thinner than on many others, sun damage is more apparent and also more difficult to repair.  UV exposure and the aging process itself can lead to a loss of collagen, which reduces the elasticity of skin and causes it to sag.

Microdermabrasion

While micodermabrasion is commonly used for the face, it also can be used on the neck area.  This procedure involves removing the top layers of the skin, which becomes smoother as it heals.  Gentler than regular dermabrasion, this treatment is associated with a shorter recovery time and can minimize irregularities on the surface of the skin.

Laser Skin Tightening

If the neck area is sagging, a laser tightening procedure can stimulate the growth of new collagen, which will cause skin to become firmer over a period of 90 to 180 days.  Unlike laser resurfacing, which destroys layers of skin and initiates the process of new skin growth in its place, a tightening procedure does not destroy skin and is more suited to this delicate area of the body.

Neck Lift

For more extensive skin sagging, a neck lift is a surgical option that can produce dramatic results.  It is effective for tightening jowls and loose skin under the chin.  Your surgeon will make an incision in front of the ear lobe that extends behind the ear to the lower scalp.  The skin will be raised, and the underlying muscle and tissue will be tightened.  A certain amount of skin may be removed, and then the skin will be repositioned and sutured into place.  General anesthesia is administered as part of the procedure.

Following a neck lift, you will be bandaged, and a drainage tube may be inserted.  Dressings and tubes are usually removed 1 to 2 days after surgery.  Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication and will recommend cold compresses and to help reduce swelling.  It also is recommended to keep the head elevated and to avoid activity during the initial healing period.

In comparison to other treatment options, a neck lift is major surgery and comes with associated risks such as infection, numbness, and scarring.  Recovery usually takes two to four weeks, and scars may not appear until some time has passed.  Follow-up care with your surgeon is important so that he or she can monitor how well you are healing.

While a neck lift can reduce the signs of aging dramatically, it is not effective for reversing the effects of UV exposure or rejuvenating the skin surface.  In consultation with your physician, you can determine whether to incorporate other treatments into your overall plan for achieving a more youthful neck.