Neck Lift Recovery: What to Expect in Your Platysmaplasty Healing Period

For anyone looking into neck lift (cervicoplasty) surgery, the benefits aren’t the only thing to research. Future patients should also research the less desirable aspects, or “cons,” of such a procedure. For example, the risks are something to think about, as well as the recovery and what needs to be done during aftercare. Here, we will discuss what to consider when planning your (cervicoplasty) neck lift surgery.

Recovery is one of the most important aspects of surgery. If patients don’t take good care of themselves after a procedure, they increase their risk of complications and poor outcomes. For this reason, having a good knowledge of how to care for yourself is integral to the surgery process and patient satisfaction.

Looking for personalised information? Contact Dr Jeremy Richardson in Melbourne to learn more about recovery after cosmetic surgery in Melbourne.

What is a Neck Lift (Cervicoplasty)?

A neck lift, properly known as platysmaplasty or cervicoplasty, is surgery that targets the neck and jawline. It is cosmetic surgery, meaning it’s done usually for aesthetic reasons. Some of these reasons might include concerns about:

• Skin laxity on the neck
• Excess fat below the chin
• Skin wrinkles
• Loose skin due to weight loss

The surgery aims to tighten the area by removing extra skin with surgical incisions. The process happens under a general anaesthetic, and there is typically an extensive recovery period.

Determining a good candidate

Although recovery happens after surgery, some key decisions need to be made before. The consultation process allows Dr Richardson to assess your suitability and any extra risk factors specific to you. If a patient is known to be healthy and prepared for surgery, this means their body has a good chance of healing well with the proper aftercare. Like any major decision, careful consideration and planning can have a great impact on the outcome.

Good candidates for neck lift (cervicoplasty) surgery are typically:

• Non-smokers or have quit smoking before, and maintain this after surgery
• Have maintained a healthy and stable weight
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet
• Know the potential risks of the surgery and have reasonable expectations

Neck lift (cervicoplasty) surgery is common for people looking for a subtle or significant cosmetic outcome. This means patients looking for only a subtle change – or who only have mild signs of neck ageing – might opt for non-surgical treatments.

Key factors in recovery

Here are some key components to a successful (cervicoplasty) neck lift recovery:

Time off work and exercise
One vital aspect of recovery is taking time away from usual activities. This requires preparation. Patients will have to schedule time off work, which is usually one to two weeks. However, if work involves heavy lifting or other strenuous tasks, you may need to extend this time.

When it comes to exercise, we encourage patients to resume gentle and light activity as soon as they are able. For example, light walking is a good start. It’s best to wait, however, until the three or four-week post-op mark to resume exercise and gym routines. If you’re ever not sure about when to resume exercise, it’s best to consult your Dr Richardson.

Getting enough rest
After invasive surgery, patients may expect to have side effects of this. Bruising, swelling, numbness, and some pain which will be managed with medication, are common and require adequate rest. Therefore, patients are advised to sleep at an elevated angle and avoid too much activity.

Getting enough rest not only helps to reduce side effects, but it also helps the body allocate energy towards healing and recovery.

Wearing a compression garment
Compression garments are designed to support the operated area and control any swelling. They allow the neck and chin’s skin tissues to remain in their new position and patients should therefore follow Dr Richardson’s instructions for wearing their support garment. Generally, it must be worn for two weeks and can be taken off to eat or shower.

Communication with your surgeon
Patients should communicate with Dr Richardson throughout the pre-and post-operative periods. If they have concerns about how their recovery is progressing, Dr Richardson and his team will advise based on your concerns and symptoms. It’s also important to attend any post-op appointments to monitor healing and encourage a satisfying outcome during recovery from a (cervicoplasty) neck lift.

Choose Dr Richardson for (cervicoplasty) neck lift surgery in Melbourne

Recovery from surgery can be both mental and physical. Choosing a skilled plastic surgeon to support you through your cervicoplasty or neck lift recovery can make a significant difference. Specialist plastic surgeon Dr Richardson is experienced in helping patients through the healing process. With a firm commitment to patient-centered care, he aims to provide the necessary information and care for each individual to support their recovery.

Learn more about neck lift (cervicoplasty) surgery with Dr Jeremy Richardson in Melbourne. You may also book a consultation for personalised support and guidance.