It is not surprising that most patients are concerned about neck liposuction incisions, which inevitably lead to scars. Nonetheless, not all scars are bad, particularly when they are made remarkably small and are placed in discreet areas, allowing them to blend well into the background.
Renowned Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Tarick Smiley has explained the two neck liposuction incision placements and how the patient’s underlying anatomy and fat location determine the ideal approach.
Where Are Incisions Made For A Neck Liposuction?
Single-incision under the chin
A small, round incision is specifically placed within the skin fold for optimal scar concealment. This incision technique is only suitable for patients with minimal to moderate amounts of fat that is mainly limited to the center of the neck.
Two additional incisions behind the ears, ideally in the earlobe crease
Apart from the incision beneath the chin, patients who need more correction—i.e., they have a full neck fat that extends beyond the center—will need additional incisions behind the ears. This technique allows the surgeon to “attack” the excess fats from different directions, a technique that is tied to smoother and more natural results.
In fact, the best results are usually obtained with the additional incisions behind the ears.
What To Do With The Remaining Fat?
Aside from the neck liposuction incision placement, another critical issue is how much fat remains afterward. Contrary to popular belief, great results are achieved when enough fat is preserved during surgery, as it serves as a “carpeting” that will prevent the platysma muscle from becoming visible neck bands.
The ideal amount of fat that is removed during surgery also depends on the patient’s skin elasticity. Therefore, someone who is relatively young and possesses good skin shrinkage generally tolerates a more aggressive approach than someone with reduced skin elasticity.
For instance, Dr. Smiley recently performed neck liposuction, in which around 300 cc of fat was removed. While it may sound like an excessive amount, for this particular patient it was the right volume due to the extent of her full neck and her good skin shrinkage, which could be attributed to her young age.
However, the same amount of volume might be considered “too much” when the surgery involves older patients who generally have reduced skin elasticity, unless a concurrent neck lift (or skin excision-based surgery) is performed as well to prevent a sagging appearance.
Are Neck Liposuction Scars Visible?
When you have neck liposuction, the doctor makes small cuts near your ears and under your chin. These cuts are carefully placed so they’re hard to see. Dr. Smiley takes special care to put the cuts where they blend in with the natural lines of your skin. That way, the scars won’t stand out.
After the surgery, Dr. Smiley also gives you instructions on how to take care of the cuts:
- You should keep them clean and dry and avoid too much sun.
- When you sleep, it’s best to lie on your back with your head a bit raised.
- Don’t use makeup on the cuts until they’re healed.
- Dr. Smiley might also recommend some creams or pills to help the scars fade away.
Is Neck Liposuction Worth It?
The decision about whether neck liposuction is worth it depends on individual circumstances and desired outcomes. Neck liposuction is an effective solution for enhancing the appearance of the neck, but it can cater to slightly different needs and ages. Neck liposuction is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to reduce excess fat in the neck area, resulting in a more defined and youthful neckline. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable procedure based on factors such as age, skin elasticity, and specific aesthetic goals.
Also Read: The Newest Liposuction Techniques This Year
FAQs
Does neck liposuction leave a scar?
Neck liposuctions do result in a barely visible scar, making it a minor concern.
How do you break up scar tissue after neck liposuction?
Stretching and flexibility exercises are common methods to help with scar tissue repair. These exercises can help the tissues become more flexible and mobile. If you’ve had neck liposuction, you can include scar massage and stretches in your recovery plan.
How long does it take to recover from liposuction on the neck?
Typically, the complete recovery from neck liposuction takes around three to four weeks. By the end of this period, most patients can expect to see their full results and a noticeable reduction in any scarring from the procedure.
