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Neck Liposuction

Lipoplasty, also named liposuction or liposculpture, is a surgical procedure designed to remove deposits of excess fat to create a desired body contour. Liposuction of the neck can give this area a new streamlined contour, enhancing the effect of facial features and improving the profile.

The face and neck are usually the first features we notice when we meet someone new, therefore, improvements in this area can create a dramatic change. A firm, trim neck gives the face a more youthful appearance.

• How is neck liposuction performed?
• How long does neck liposuction take?
• What type of anesthesia is used?
• Where is the procedure performed?
• When can I return home and resume normal activities?
• How do I prepare for neck liposuction?
• What precautions are necessary during recovery?
• What are the possible complications after neck liposuction?
• What results can I expect after neck liposuction?
• Choosing the right surgeon

How is neck liposuction performed?

In general, liposuction procedures use small incisions in selected areas with a high vacuum to remove fat cells. After the fat is removed, sutures (stitches) will be applied to the areas treated. Thereafter a bandage or garment will be applied to wrap the skin and minimize the swelling.
The tumescent technique involves injecting a solution with a local anesthetic into the areas to be treated prior to suctioning. An incision is made near the area from which the fat is to be removed; and a specially designed surgical tube, called a cannula, is placed through the incision into the fat. The cannula is attached by flexible tubing to a vacuum pump that removes the fat by suction as the cannula is manipulated beneath the skin. Compared to other conventional liposuction techniques, the tumescent technique is more precise and accurate. This procedure minimizes blood loss, removes more fat and has a faster recovery time.

Ultrasonic assisted lipoplasty (UAL) is a new method of liposuction that uses ultrasound energy to liquefy fat before it is suctioned. Because the fat is liquid at the time that it is removed, UAL is smoother and mechanically more efficient. In the United States, ultrasound has been used for surgical removal of tissues, other than fat, for more than twenty years. UAL has been used in Europe for more than ten years. UAL also minimizes trauma, resulting in less bruising and blood loss.

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How long does neck liposuction take?

Neck liposuction generally takes one hour to complete.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Neck liposuction is usually performed using local anesthesia along with a light sedative to make you feel drowsy and relaxed.

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Where is the procedure performed?

Neck liposuction is usually performed on an outpatient basis, in the surgeon's office-based surgical suite, an outpatient surgery center or hospital.

When can I return home and resume normal activities?

You may return home the same day, however you have to make arrangements for someone to drive you home and assist you with your daily activities for the first 24 hours. Depending on the extent of the neck area treated, most people return to work and normal activities within a week.

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How do I prepare for neck liposuction?

During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss the changes that you would like to make to your appearance. Since the appearance of your neck is a matter of personal perception and preference, you will need to discuss your concerns in detail so your surgeon can determine the appropriate alternatives. You also should make arrangements ahead of time for someone to drive you to and from your procedure and to assist you with your daily activities during your recovery period.

Prior to your surgical procedure, the surgeon will perform a complete health history and physical examination to evaluate your overall weight, your skin and muscle tone and the overall distribution of fat deposits. In particular your surgeon will ask you about any problems you have had with high blood pressure, blood clotting or a tendency to develop large scars.

Knowledge of your allergies, medications and previous surgeries should be brought to your surgeon's attention at this time. Specific instructions to assist you in preparing for this procedure will be given to you after the health history and physical is complete. Depending on your individual health status, the instructions may include guidelines regarding your diet, alcohol intake, smoking and which medications to take or avoid. Your experience will be much smoother if you remain compliant with your surgeon's instructions.

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What precautions are necessary during recovery?

Immediately after surgery, you will need to continuously wear a support garment for one to three weeks. Please ask your surgeon for after care instructions specific to your case, as these will assist you during your recovery period.

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What are the possible complications after neck liposuction?

After surgery, some patients experience dimpling, lumpiness, numbness, scarring, discoloration, or sagging skin in the treated area. UAL liposuction may cause friction burns to the skin or to the internal organs. More serious complications include blood clots, infection, excessive fluid loss leading to shock, fluid build-up in the lungs, and drug overdose.

No procedure is without risks; however, the majority of complications known to be associated with a neck liposuction are minor when the procedure is performed by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon. It is always important to be informed about the possible complications before any surgery. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your surgeon.

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What results can I expect after neck liposuction?

Your neck may be stiff and sore for a few days, and you may experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding or temporary numbness. If necessary, your surgeon can prescribe medication to relieve this initial discomfort.

Your surgeon may prescribe an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection at the incision sites. Your stitches will be removed in a week to 10 days, unless they dissolve on their own. You will be fitted with a compression band to cut down on swelling and to hold your neck in its new shape until the tissues have adjusted.

Since the normal aging process affects the firmness and elasticity of the skin, older patients may not experience results as dramatic as those typically achieved in younger patients. Although liposuction cannot alter skin quality or muscle tone, and should not be a substitute for regular exercise and a balanced diet, your neck will always be slimmer than it was prior to this procedure.

Neck liposuction is often performed in conjunction with a neck lift or face lift. Most people are pleased with the new contour of their necks and often feel a boost in energy and self-confidence.

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