If you’re considering facial plastic surgery, it’s important to understand the different options available. While our faces are one of the first places to show the signs of aging, everyone still ages differently. Some patients start to see signs of aging in the midface with a loss of volume, whereas other patients develop premature jowl formation and skin laxity of the neck. Fortunately, plastic surgery can address all of these issues with the right techniques. But before you make a final decision, it’s best to understand the difference between a neck lift and facelift, and your facial cosmetic surgeon can help you understand the right option for you.
What is a Facelift?
The facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a type of cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce signs of aging with surgical techniques. As the name implies, this procedure is performed on the face, but it can also target the chin and jaw area as well.
Some of the specific cosmetic concerns that a facelift can address include:
- Jowls along the jawline
- Nasolabial lines or smile lines
- Sagging skin
- Double chin as a result of fat or skin
The cause of these factors heavily depends on each person. Some people experience these aging signs due to things like smoking and sun damage while others have it from stress and gravity. Genetics also play a part in whether or not you’re a good candidate.
One thing you should always remember is that facelifts can only do so much. A facelift can make you look like a younger, more rejuvenated version of yourself, but it can’t make you look like someone else. For this reason, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Furthermore, you can expect long-term results with a facelift, but you’ll still need to use a physician-grade skincare regimen to mantain your results.
What is a Neck Lift?
Neck lifts, also referred to as a lower rhytidectomy, slightly differ from a facelift. Instead of targeting the entire face, a neck lift targets the neck and jawline. Similar to a facelift, a neck lift can help treat sagging neck skin, jowls within the jawline, and extra fat deposits underneath the chin.
Some people opt for a neck lift rather than a facelift because they exerience aging signs exclusively in the lower face and neck area, sometimes called a “turkey wattle.” In addition, a neck lift can only be performed surgically, similar to the facelift, although some non-surgical alternatives exist.
How Do They Differ?
Facelifts and neck lifts are very similar cosmetic procedures. As a general rule, though, a facelift is best for aging in the midface and neck areas, whereas a necklift addresses only the neck. Most times, patients can benefit from a combination of both for best results.
Detemining which procedure is best depends on your aesthetic goals and treatment areas. As with any type of restorative cosmetic procedue, it’s important to only consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to discuss your best options.
Schedule a Consultation
At Mosharrafa Plastic Surgery, both Dr. Ali and Dr. Tamir Mosharrafa are experts in the field of facial plastic surgery. To schedule a consultation and learn more about your facial rejuvenation options, we invite you to contact our Phoenix office by calling or filling out our online form.
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