Discover the Secret to a Youthful Neck with Dr. Karen Horton
In the pursuit of a youthful appearance, many focus solely on the face, often overlooking an equally telling area: the neck. Dr. Karen Horton, a renowned Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in San Francisco, recently contributed her insights on this topic to an ASPS blog, “Your face isn’t giving away your age, it’s your neck”, sharing her expertise on achieving a rejuvenated neck appearance.
Your Neck: The Unsung Hero of Youthful Looks
The article points out that while fine lines and wrinkles on the face garner the lion’s share of attention, it’s often the neck that reveals our age first. Factors like genetics, chronic UV exposure, smoking, and alcohol use contribute to sagging skin under the chin, visible sun damage, and fine and deep wrinkles. Over time, these elements can make the neck appear older faster than other areas.
The MACS Lift: Dr. Horton’s Preferred Technique
As highlighted in the ASPS blog, Dr. Horton’s technique of choice for a neck lift is the MACS lift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) lift. This advanced procedure focuses on lifting the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) in an upward vector, effectively eliminating jowls and restoring a youthful, defined jawline. This method re-drapes lower facial skin naturally, ensuring results that look both refreshed and authentic.
Combining Procedures for Optimal Results
For many patients, an isolated neck lift might not suffice. Dr. Horton often combines a neck lift with other procedures like a blepharoplasty (eye lift) or liposuction to yield comprehensive rejuvenation. For instance, pairing a neck lift with liposuction of the submental (chin) region permanently removes excess fat under the chin, enhancing the overall contour of the neck and face.
Recovery: What to Expect
Recovery from a neck lift requires patience and time. Dr. Horton advises her patients to expect at least one month of “social downtime”. Initial swelling, bruising, and noticeable incisions are normal and typically subside within one to two months. Scar therapy is initiated at one month postoperatively. Allowing three months for complete healing and resolution of surgical swelling, called “edema”, ensures the skin looks natural and scars fade appropriately.
Ready to Rejuvenate Your Neck?
If considering a neck lift or exploring the combination of procedures for maximum effect, Dr. Horton is here to guide both female and male patients through the facial rejuvenation process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a more youthful, confident appearance.