Turkey Neck

The Only Turkey Neck at the Holiday Table Should Be on the Bird

As we approach the holiday season, many of us start to take stock of how we’ll look as we attend celebratory work and family functions. For many, the appearance of “turkey neck” is a reality check that we’re not as young as we used to be.

Excess skin around under the chin and neck is, unfortunately, an inevitable result of the aging process. Loose, wrinkly skin results after the body begins to produce different proportions of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid than when we are younger, which normally keep the skin in that area taught and firm. It’s a process that affects both men and women and can contribute to looking significantly older than you feel.

Key preventative habits are very helpful at a young age, such as avoiding tobacco use and limiting sun exposure. Otherwise, there’s not much anyone can do to reverse the normal physiologic process before it becomes evident. Lucky for us however, surgical cosmetic procedures are available to tighten and reduce the amount of skin to create a tighter, smoother look along the underside of the chin and neck.

About Neck Lift Surgery

A neck lift is a facial plastic surgery procedure that addresses issues with a loose or sagging neckline. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and tightening of deeper tissue layers for a long-lasting result. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions under the chin and behind the lower portion of the ears. Working through these incisions, a surgeon can remove excess unwanted tissue if necessary, adjust underlying structures and tighten the remaining skin of the neckline. This is sometimes enhanced with liposuction to accentuate the results.

General Candidacy for Neck Lift Surgery

Good candidates for neck lift surgery typically have thinner necks to start with, and loose overlying draping skin and soft tissue of the lower face, jawline, or central neck. They should be in good overall health so that a surgery such as a neck lift does not pose a major risk to overall health and wellness.  A history of prior neck surgery does not necessarily preclude candidacy.

Ideal for Major Weight Loss and Facial Contour Changes

Another common reason for neck lift surgery is to improve the new unwanted facial contour that results from significant weight loss. When a person loses weight, their skin will not necessarily shrink down to fit their slimmer frame. Surgeries such as the neck lift and other skin tightening/body contouring procedures are the only way to get rid of stretch marks and excess skin.

Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Before a patient undergoes any sort of surgery, it's important that they understand the risks that accompany the benefits of the procedure. This helps patients have realistic expectations about the treatment process and what can be achieved. In addition, knowing the risks and benefits of neck lift surgery helps patients understand the importance of following all pre-op and post-op instructions

Considering Other Facial Plastic Surgery Options

In addition to the neck lift, lower facelift surgery and other facial rejuvenation options may be ideal for giving patients a more youthful and invigorated appearance. We'll be sure to go over all options for facial rejuvenation that meet a patient's needs during the consultation process. Knowing your options means making confident choices about your appearance and a better chance of achieving great aesthetic results overall.

Contact Hove Center for Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr. Hove is a leading facial plastic surgeon and reconstructive surgery specialist who has built a reputation through the greater Philadelphia area for his exceptional skills. He offers a host of anti-aging facial cosmetic surgery options, as well as a variety of non-surgical procedures that can lift wrinkles and enhance the look and texture of the skin.

For more information about neck lift surgery and how it can help you achieve a much younger and refreshed appearance, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic plastic surgeon today. Dr. Christopher Hove and the entire team at the practice will work with you to enhance your overall appearance and wellness.