Risks & Side Effects of Neck Lift Surgery

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Possible Problems of Neck Lift Surgery

Absolutely any surgery holds risks, even the simplest of procedures can have dangers and unpleasant side effects, and neck lift surgery is not without its own risks. Physically, infection, haematomas, scarring, discolouration of the skin and numbness are all possible, and sometimes unsatisfactory results can occur. Fortunately most side effects are temporary and as you recover they dissipate. Some, however, can be permanent, but more surgery can usually solve this. 

Scarring after Neck Lift Surgery

Scarring will obviously occur in the aftermath of surgery. How obvious it is and how long it takes to fade depends on the procedure, the surgeon, and you. A neck lift operation usually involves incisions either side of the head, behind the ears or below them. Sometimes an incision under the chin is also made. These incisions are in areas that reduce visibility of the scars. How reduced the visibility is, depends on the skill of the surgeon. If you are very concerned with scarring, discuss the possibility of endoscopic techniques with your surgeon or talk about the different versions of platysmaplasty and which is best for less scarring – some techniques are better for men than for women. The fading of scars depends on your body and your actions. Follow post-operation instructions closely; keeping your neck and head as still as possible to reduce chances of tearing and bleeding.

Numbness after Neck Lift Surgery

Numbness is likely to happen after the surgery, because the skin has been separated from the tissue underneath. This means the nerves have to reconnect and heal. Although this is unsettling, it is often temporary, though permanent nerve damage is not unheard of. Talk to your surgeon if you think your nerve damage is taking too long to heal.

Infection after Neck Lift Surgery

Infection is possible after surgery, but is mostly avoided if antibiotics are taken consistently. By avoiding the contact of lotions, soap, and water with the sutures, possibility of infection is also reduced. To be further vigilant against infection, it is important to monitor your temperature frequently because of the risk of infection. If it is too high, seek medical attention.

Haematomas after Neck Lift Surgery

Haematomas, the accumulation of blood or fluid under surface of the skin, are a side effect of neck lift surgery. However, the chances of this occurring are reduced when temporary drainage tubes are put in place after surgery (these are usually removed after two days). If haematomas do occur though, follow the advice given by your surgeon.

Effects of Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia is also not without risks and not without its side effects. Post-surgery it can cause nausea and shivering, but can also cause you to feel tearful and emotional. Sometimes worse allergic reactions can occur, so it is necessary for your chosen clinic to have a good emergency service or connections. Do bear in mind though, that this reaction is rare.

Asymmetry, Discolouration, Lumps & Muscle Weakness

Unsatisfactory results can arise after surgery: asymmetry, discolouration of the skin, lumps and muscle weakness are some of the unfortunate results that can occur. Improvement of such results can sometimes be achieved by more surgery. It is therefore prudent that before surgery the risks and side effects of neck lift surgery are discussed with your surgeon. Not only this, but the procedure after an unsatisfactory result must be discussed. You must know who will pay for treatment or for more surgery if you are rightly dissatisfied. To safe guard against disappointment, choose a surgeon experienced in neck lifts. This will dramatically reduce chances of an unsatisfactory result.

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