The first step to a successful surgery and recovery process is to make sure you are well-prepared and well-informed. Neck lift surgery is one of the most commonly requested procedures here at W Cosmetic Surgery of Philadelphia. Many patients question what to expect during the surgery and subsequent recovery process.

The following guide will inform and prepare you for an easy and smooth recovery.

Two Weeks Before Your Surgery

First and foremost, make sure that you have clarified with our treatment team what you are expecting from this procedure. This will ensure that you are satisfied with the results at the end of your post-surgery recovery. During the consultation, Dr. Wulc will discuss with you how he can enhance the features of your natural jawline by performing a neck lift. He may also suggest additional or alternative procedures to achieve the look you want.

Make sure that you have disclosed to Dr Wulc any current medications, herbal supplements, and/or vitamins that you take. Some medications may need to be temporarily discontinued or managed before your surgical procedure. For example, you will need to discontinue taking anything with aspirin as an ingredient. The use of tobacco and nicotine products must also be ceased at least four weeks before surgery. This is imperative for the post-operation healing process.

If you happen to experience any symptoms of illness in the weeks leading up to your surgery, please contact a member of our patient care team. Finally, you should plan to have a recovery period of at least 5-7 days following your operation.

The Night Before Your Surgery

Get a good night’s rest before the medical procedure, and make sure not to eat or drink anything after midnight. It is okay to follow your usual nighttime skin routine.

It can be helpful to prepare a recovery area in your home before the operation. This area should be a comfortable place to rest such as a bed or a couch and should include nearby pillows to prop up your neck and head, bandaging materials and any other medical supplies, and access to light, mostly liquid diet.

The Morning Of Your Surgery

Arrive with your face and neck clean and free of makeup, lotions, and creams. Be sure to wear a comfortable outfit; including a loose-fitting top. Anaesthesia will be used to place you in a medically-induced sleep during this painless operation. Because you will be put to sleep, you will be unable to drive and must plan for someone to drive you home afterword.

After Your Neck Lift Surgery

The First 24-48 Hours: The first 24-48 hours post-op are crucial to a favourable recovery. This period should involve bed rest with little or no strenuous activity. Do your best to keep your head straight and elevated above your heart. Plan for a family member or friend to stay with you during this early stage of your recovery to help you with anything you may need.

What To Expect

Immediately following surgery, drains will likely be placed behind your ears to empty any excess fluids. Drains should be removed within 24-48 hours afterword. This reduces the amount of swelling and bruising around the surgery site and speeds up the recovery time.

Most people do not experience a great deal of pain following this procedure. A feeling of tightness in the neck area is the most commonly reported sensation. If pain is experienced, make sure that you do not “ice” the area, as this can restrict blood flow and cause cell death. Pain medication will be prescribed as needed to keep you comfortable. Upon request, we may also employ ultrasonic techniques at our office to help lessen stiffness. With time, and as your neck heals and begins to yield noticeable results, these sensations should dissipate.

As you begin getting back into your routine, approved cosmetics and clothing may be used if needed to cover visible marks of discolouration or surgical incisions in the neck area once Dr Wulc has cleared you to do so.

As with any surgical procedure, make sure to keep an eye out for any signs of a fever or infection of the wound.

Long-Term Results

It may take several months for the incision lines to fully heal to mature, and several weeks for swelling and bruising to go down. However, as the swelling and bruising fades, you will begin to see noticeable results that give you a more youthful and revitalized appearance. When cared for properly, the results of this treatment should last a long while.

Why Choose W Cosmetic Surgery for Your Neck Lift Procedure

Dr. Allan Wulc, MD, FACS, and the team at W Cosmetic Surgery are honored to serve our customers as one of the most qualified and accredited cosmetic surgical clinics in the Philadelphia area. Dr. Wulc is certified by the ABMS board in Ophthalmology, board-certified in Facial Cosmetic Surgery by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and board-certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Physician Specialist–making him one of the most uniquely qualified surgeons in the area.

Our clinic goes beyond being a reliable and quality business that you can trust to get your cosmetic procedures done. It is also a practice that provides outstanding post-operative care to encourage a stress-free and comfortable recovery process.

W Cosmetic Surgery boasts an extensive menu of cosmetic treatments, including various ways to improve the look of the neck and facial area. Call the clinic to book your consultation at (610) 828-8880, or fill out the Contact Us form to request a staff member to reach out to you.