Neck Lipo

Offered at our convenient location in Denver

Neck liposuction, also known as neck lipo, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that uses a small, hollow tube called a cannula to suction fat from the neck and jawline area. The goal of neck liposuction is to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline by removing excess fat and contouring the area. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure, but patients can typically return to normal activities within a week or two. A contoured neck and jawline can take years off a person’s face and restore a vibrant appearance.

Patients in the Englewood and Denver, CO areas can experience the benefits of neck liposuction with Dr. David Hendrick, a triple-board-certified liposuction specialist. Dr. Hendrick delivers results to his patients using skill, a deep understanding of the anatomy of the neck, and the potential of the latest liposuction techniques. He also offers a range of other body contouring and facial rejuvenation procedures to help patients achieve their desired look. If you are interested in neck liposuction and would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hendrick, please call (303) 792-5665 for our scheduling coordinator in Englewood, CO.

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About Neck Liposuction

As people age, some may accumulate fat in the submental area, sagging jowls, and excess skin on the neck; this can give the appearance of weight gain or aging, even in otherwise healthy individuals. These changes can be caused by various factors, such as

  • Genetics
  • Lifestyle
  • The natural aging process

Patients who wish to improve these contours in their neck and jawline often seek out minimally invasive procedures as an alternative to more extensive facelift surgeries; liposuction of the neck is one such procedure. With barely visible scarring, minimal recovery time, and the ability to target specific areas of fat, neck liposuction can provide patients with a more defined and youthful appearance. 

However, as with any surgery, risks and potential complications should be discussed with a qualified surgeon before proceeding. Patients should always choose a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Hendrick because he has the experience and expertise in neck liposuction to ensure the best possible outcome.

What is Tumescent Liposuction?

Since the mid-80s, liposuction has evolved into an elevated approach using a tumescent solution to maximize safety and minimize discomfort during the procedure. Tumescent fluid combines saline, epinephrine, lidocaine, and sodium bicarbonate in a diluted solution. [1] It is used to achieve subcutaneous anesthesia and control bleeding while removing adipose tissue in the neck, chin, and jawline, allowing for a safe and efficient procedure.

Proper patient selection and avoiding over-resection are crucial for achieving optimal results in neck liposuction. This means selecting patients with an appropriate amount of fat in the submental area, limited skin laxity, and using techniques tailored to the individual’s needs. For patients with excess loose skin, Dr. Hendrick may recommend a neck lift procedure to improve the results of your neck lipo further.

Benefits

A contoured neck and a targeted double chin reduction can boost your confidence and take years off your face. Here are the benefits of liposuction for neck contouring:

  • Reduced bleeding – The tumescent solution contains a vasoconstrictor, constricting blood vessels and reducing bleeding during the procedure; this leads to less bruising and swelling post-operatively.
  • Increased precision – The tumescent solution causes the fat cells to become swollen and firm, which makes them easier to remove and allows for more precise contouring and sculpting. [2]
  • Improved safety – The tumescent solution provides local anesthesia, which means that general anesthesia or IV sedation is not required; this reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia and allows for a faster recovery time.
  • Reduced discomfort – The tumescent solution numbs the area, reducing discomfort during and after the procedure.
  • Better results – The tumescent solution allows for more controlled and efficient fat removal, leading to better results and improved patient satisfaction.

The tumescent liposuction technique is considered the gold standard for liposuction due to its safety, efficacy, and minimal discomfort for patients.

Candidates for Neck Liposuction

The ideal candidate for neck liposuction has pockets of submental fat above the platysmal muscle in the neck. They may have unwanted fat deposits like a double chin, but they should also have good skin elasticity, so the skin conforms to the newly contoured areas. As patients age, their skin loses collagen and can become lax, especially when pockets of fat drag it downward. In such cases, liposuction alone may not be sufficient to achieve the desired results, and a combined approach with a different procedure such as a facelift, neck lift, or submentoplasty may be needed.

Additionally, patients should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. A consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon can help determine if a patient is a good candidate for neck liposuction and if any additional procedures may be needed to achieve the desired results.

Personal Consultation

Patients need to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon before choosing a procedure. During the consultation, Dr. Hendrick will discuss your goals and medical history and examine the neck and jawline to determine the best course of action. This will help him plan the appropriate procedure and any procedures that will boost your results and minimize potential complications. 

A comprehensive evaluation is critical to ensure that your expectations are realistic and that you can recover from surgery. It also allows Dr. Hendrick to tailor the procedure(s) to your needs and to ensure the best possible outcome.

Preparation

After consultation with a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Hendrick, he will provide you with the several steps you should take to prepare for a neck liposuction procedure:

Temporarily Stop Smoking

Smoking can have a negative impact on a patient’s healing and recovery following a neck liposuction procedure. Nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, which reduces blood flow to the treated area; this can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. For this reason, it is important for patients to quit smoking at least two weeks before and after the surgery.

Avoid Blood Thinners

Blood thinners such as

  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen
  • Certain vitamins
  • Some supplements

These substances can increase the risk of bleeding. We will provide you with a list of medications to avoid before the procedure.

Get a Physical

Your surgeon may require that you get a physical from your primary care physician to ensure that you’re healthy enough for surgery.

Arrange for Transportation

You will not be able to drive yourself home after the surgery, so you should arrange for someone to take you home and stay with you for the first night.

Clear Your Schedule 

You will need to take some time off work and other activities to recover. Make sure you have adequate time to rest and recover.

Dr. Hendrick’s team will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including how to arrive fully prepared on the morning of your procedure. By following these steps and carefully following the Millard Plastic Surgery team’s instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and successful procedure and recovery.

The Procedure

Patients will typically be given a local anesthetic to numb the area and are given oral sedation to relax them during the procedure. This approach allows for a more comfortable and safe procedure, with a faster recovery time. However, it is important to note that the level of sedation, type of anesthetic, and overall approach will vary depending on the patient’s needs and the surgeon’s preference. 

Once the patient is prepped, Dr. Hendrick will make a small incision around 1-3mm wide, just big enough to introduce the cannula. A good amount of tumescent solution will be introduced to the treatment area. After around 30 minutes, Dr. Hendrick will remove the treated fat with a cannula attached to suction. He will then let the tumescent fluid drain from the area. Once the fat is removed from the treatment area, it is gone for good!

After the fat has been removed, Dr. Hendrick will close the incisions and apply a compression bandage before sending you home. You should have someone with you to drive you home.

What is Neck Lipo Recovery Like?

Recovery time for neck liposuction varies depending on the extent of the procedure, but most patients can return to normal activities within a week or two. However, it’s important to note that it can take several weeks or longer for the swelling to subside fully and for the final results to be visible.

During the recovery period, patients should avoid:

  • Strenuous activities
  • Exercise
  • Heavy lifting
  • Sun exposure

You will be given instructions on how to care for the incision sites, and you may need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the newly contoured areas. You should expect to have some minor discomfort, but this can be managed with medication and should not be severe.

We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing properly. If anything arises, we are a phone call away. Call (303) 792-5665 to reach us with questions.

What are the Results of Neck Liposuction?

The results of neck liposuction can be dramatic, providing patients with a more defined and youthful appearance. The procedure can help to eliminate:

  • A double chin
  • Excess fat in the neck and jawline area

The results are usually long-lasting, as long as the patient maintains a healthy lifestyle and diet.

Patient satisfaction with neck liposuction is generally high, as the procedure can help to improve self-esteem and self-confidence. It is important for patients to have realistic expectations before undergoing any procedure and to be aware that the procedure will not stop the aging process, but the results can boost the overall appearance of the face!

What is the Cost of Neck Lipo in Denver, CO?

Neck liposuction costs vary, but you can get an accurate cost assessment through the consultation appointment. Dr. Hendrick will make sure can budget for this and any other procedure you include in your treatment plan. Millard Plastic Surgery also offers financing to make cosmetic improvements accessible for all. 

Call (303) 792-5665 to make your appointment today!

References

  1. Jacob CI, Berkes BJ, Kaminer MS. Liposuction and surgical recontouring of the neck: a retrospective analysis. Dermatologic Surgery: Official Publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et Al]. 2000;26(7):625-632. doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2000.00021.x
  2. Venkataram J, Mysore V. Liposuction‐principles, techniques, outcomes. Dermatological Reviews. Published online May 25, 2021. doi:10.1002/der2.72