Gobble, Gobble Gone - Boston, MA

Genetics were not kind to me, I inherited a short neck which began dropping in my thirties. After noticing the neck and faces of older relatvies and turning 50 I knew a neck lift was in my future. Two weeks ago I had the procedure, along with a couple other procedures, which are NOT reflected in the above cost. I wanted to write my review in the Neck section as this was my primary concern and there are fewer reviews here than in the FL reviews. I did my homework and chose my MD. Get the book by Charlee Ganny and Susan Colini-"2 Girlfriends Guide to Costmetic Surgery". Another woman reccommended it to me and it was very helpful. As the DR instructs,4 weeks prior to proceure, stop all blood thinning meds and supplements, no alcohol a week before (and after). I spent the week before the procedure "getting my affairs in order". Stock up the house with food you will eat afterwards, get your hair done, visit with people you may not have seen in a while because you won't want to see them anytime soon after surg if you're not disclosing you've "had work done". Eat well, exercise and be in the best shape possible before your surgery, which will help with recovery. My surgery was preformed in the DR private operating suite at his office. I had intrevenous sedation (propophol) and local anesthesia. I slept through the entire operation. My doctor reccommends a 2 night stay in the hospital, for which I questioned but in the end was VERY grateful for. I was very groggy and sleepy afterwards. The nurses take care of all your needs and can give you stronger pain meds in the hospital.Although it is an added out of pocket expense, do it if you can. I was not in a lot of pain afterwards but that is due to the meds. I had drains in my neck to catch the fluid from the incisions for 48 hours which required changing every 2 hours.They were removed before I went home. Arriving home I went straight to bed and stayed there for the next 3 days. I was not in extreme pain, just a lot of discomfort. It is hard to find a comfortable position to sleep. Much of the work and incisions are along the ears, so sleeping on your side is impossible, even two weeks out. One aspect which has been surprisingly difficult for me has been this period of time waiting for the busing to go away. I chose not to tell anyone except my immediate family(those that live with me only) and my boss about the surgery. The hiding and deception of it all is a bit distrubing for me. I have quite a bit of bruising. A very large, dark purple bruise on my chin, which is still evident now, 13 days later. Also bruising and swelling around the eyes and near the ears. I look like I've been in a fight or accident. I do not yet feel comfortable about going out. But, I do have a history of bruising easily, so I am not surprised. Since it had only been 13 days post surgery, I can't say for sure if I am TOTALLY satisfied. My neck does look fantastic and if that is the only procedure you want or need done, then I would definately reccommend my MD.
He did however, suggest and do other procedures (which increased the cost of course) and I am still waiting for the brusing and swelling to heal before concluding on those. As time goes along I will update this post. It is still to early to rate my overall satisfaction accurately. But my NECK LOOKS 100% BETTER!! I read so many posts on this site before making the surgery decision and was very grateful for the suggestions and advice I received. Thank you to all who took the time to post and respond to my questions. Be well!

Well, four months out now! My neck looks great, but there are still very slight depressions along my cheek area. Doc says he's not sure what caused that. I keep hoping it is temporary. I will wait at least 6 months or more before doing anything about that. (Sculptra??) Also, the little milia that formed near my eye is still there, but smaller.
I can still feel the tightness along my cheekline area, although it is lessening. The recovery period for this procedure is much LONGER than I ever expected. Yes, you can return to your routine but the scars still get a bit itchy at times, I still can't wear my hair back as the creasing behind the ears has not yet fully relaxed and I am still using a heavy dose of dermablend on the under chin scar. Anyone with questions feel free to ask!!

Well, a year has passed, and I am "glad I did it" BUT happy the long recovery period is over. My neck and jawline are very sculpted, the waddle is gone. My face is smoother, but I still have that "tight" feeling along the sides of the face. Dr. says that is what I paid for!!! It is not pain, nor discomfort, but the face does feel different than before.
Two points to consider; be prepared for at least a month for INITIAL recovery.
And do it as soon as you can when you think you need it. I believe the longer you wait the more obvious it will be afterwards that you "had work done" because the changes will be more dramatic on a 60 year old than on a 50. good luck, feel free to ask questions!