What is Neck Liposuction?

Neck liposuction (also called submental liposuction) is a technique that removes excess fatty tissue beneath the neck. Generally, the procedure removes a genetic accumulation of fat that occurs and gives the neck a full appearance. The best candidates for neck liposuction are usually younger, such as patients in their 20s and 30s, and who have good skin quality. With neck liposuction, patients can have a sculpted, more shapely neck that can enhance the overall look of the entire face.

In the San Diego and La Jolla areas, neck liposuction is a sought-after procedure. Such thriving metropolitan areas demand that one puts their best face forward, and a slim, yet strong neck can be a desirable look for one’s appearance. For women, a slim chin is equated with beauty and grace, whereas for men a firm jawline exudes strength and confidence. Both can be achieved with neck liposuction. San Diego and La Jolla area locals choose Dr. Paul Chasan, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience, to fulfill their unique aesthetic needs and give them the look they deserve.

Neck liposuction is one of those plastic surgery procedures that can have life changing and dramatic results, yet also has the advantage of minimal downtime. For those with large necks or double chins, neck liposuction is a relatively simple means of reducing excess fatty neck tissue and revealing the slim, firm neck beneath. Even physically active patients may be unable to reduce this extra tissue through regular exercise, which is where the contouring qualities of neck liposuction comes into play.

What Happens During Neck Liposuction?

Neck liposuction is a relatively quick type of neck surgery. It can sometimes require local anesthesia, although sedatives may also be given if necessary. The procedure typically begins with one or two small incisions beneath the chin or behind the ears. From there, excess fat is removed using a suction wand (called a cannula), which lets the skin flatten and tighten and allows the neck to take on a more contoured, sculpted appearance.

What Is Neck Liposuction Recovery Like?

After neck liposuction, most patients are able to return to work in just three days. However, it is not uncommon for patients to need a week-long recovery period. A chin strap is worn for several days following the procedure, where it may then be worn only at night for a few weeks more.

Neck Liposuction Results

Most patients who have returned to their San Diego or La Jolla hometowns receive comments such as “You look thinner!” and “Have you lost weight?” after receiving neck liposuction. Unlike some other procedures, the results of this treatment begin working immediately, and patients can resume their daily lives and extracurricular activities without an overly long recovery period. Full recovery with no swelling can occur after about a month, in which the patient’s skin will fully recover and allow him or her to proudly show off their newly restored neck.

Neck Lift vs. Neck Liposuction

What is the difference between a Neck Lift and Neck Liposuction?  A neck lift and neck liposuction are two different procedures.

A neck lift deals with removing excess skin from the neck, allowing the patient’s skin to contract into a smoother appearance. A neck lift is more suited for older patients who experience the common “turkey neck” look and whose skin lacks the typical elasticity that younger patients have.

Neck liposuction may not be ideal for older patients because the skin left after the excess fat is removed may continue sagging. Instead, a neck lift removes excess neck skin or tightens the neck muscles to give the patient a fuller, smoother neck. The recovery period for a neck lift is also slightly longer than that of neck liposuction (typically up to two weeks).

Both neck lifts and liposuction are excellent neck surgery choices to improve or restore your appearance, however, they are suited for patients of slightly varying ages and needs. Please consult Dr. Chasan to find out which procedure he recommends for your unique needs, and view neck liposuction and neck lift before and after photos to see what you can expect.