Neck lift and what to expect - will I need 100 stitches?

Question

The doctor said I would have hundred stiches, is that right? What happens if the Dr. messes up sugery on a necklift

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon because the laser-assisted neck lift is minimally invasive, reduces the amount of excess fat under the chin, and creates a natural looking result in a recovery period less than 1 week.
Best wishes,

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

A neck lift requires many different points of anchoring and quite a number of sutures. How many will vary from surgeon to surgeon. As for whether your doctor will “mess up” or not, the best way to ensure a wonderful outcome is to find a wonderful facial plastic surgeon. If you are doubting the person you consulted with, keep talking to more surgeons until you find the one that’s right for you. I hope this helps.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

A neck lift is not a singular procedure with a singular #method, but rather is an umbrella term describing a large range of operations with varying #incisions and skin-lifting #techniques, which have been developed and improved upon over the years.  The type of neck lift incision will depend upon your gender, your hairline and preferred hairstyles, any scars from previous surgeries, and a variety of other factors.  As a general rule, a #neck lift #incision starts right in front of or within the hairline on the temple, follows the curve of the front of the ear, travels underneath the earlobe, and ends at the hairline behind the ear.  There are also shorter #scar techniques preferred by many patients, which do not have incisions in the hairline.  Some patients who wish to have liposuction or tightening of their neck will need an additional incision under their #chin, which can be hidden in a natural skin fold.  Though recovery from a surgical #neck lift varies from person to person, patients are generally presentable within three weeks from surgery. Generally, it will take approximately 7-10 days for the early healing in which many patients feel comfortable being in public at this stage. Most #bruising is low on the neck and may easily be covered by clothing. Also, wearing a #compression garment may be suggested the first week and then nightly for up to six weeks.The #incision scars from a neck lift can typically be hidden well and are not located within eye level to be immediately noticed. These #scars “mature” within six to twelve months from the surgery date. The term mature implies they will soften and fade away. During this time, the rejuvenating effects of the neck lift will become most obvious and the neck feels the most normal (ex. little discomfort, soft, normal sensation, no more post-op firmness). Following this stage, the true restorative effects of your neck lift result will be apparent. If during your healing, you have any concerns, it is suggested to call your board-certified surgeon or their medical staff and discuss those #concerns.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

There are many different ways to perform a necklift. In general, 100 stitches sounds a bit high, but the better measure of the surgeon is the experience he or she has in performing this procedure. The surgeon should be a facial specialist and have plenty of photos showing results you like. A properly performed necklift usually comes out great, but if there are any issues, a quality surgeon will take care of them for you.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Necklift is a great operation if done correctly. A lot of stitching needs to be done but that is normal. You should bring up your concerns and fears with your doctor and she/he should be able to calm your fears. If still in doubt then get a second opinion. All surgeries carry the risk of complications that you should discuss with your doctor. RegardsDr. Janjua

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  The number of stitches will vary between patient and by surgeon technique. I would not worry about the number, only that there is enough placed.  Complications of a neck lift including poor scarring, under/over resection of skin, pixie ear deformities, poor jawline/chin contour, hematomas, infection, pain, etc. I would advocate seeing a number of ASPS surgeons in your area to discuss your concerns and have the best information given to you.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures and needs an in-person evaluation. If you have questions about your procedure, I recommend following up with your Doctor.  To improve your final results, I recommend a combination approach with thermage/venus legacy and Kybella/Ultherapy. I recommend getting a formal consultation with an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

The neck lift operation should accomplish the goal of eliminating the excess laxity and fullness ( double chin ) in the neck and under the chin. This can be done through a short incision or some times a longer incision is needed to address the problem. The longer the incision the more stitches are needed to close. The number of stitches are immaterial. I try to accomplish my results through the shortest incision that allows me to get the desired outcome. If you choose a competent and experience plastic surgeon, the operation is safe and you should have great results and be happy.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  I recommend two weeks off from work after a necklift.  The number of stitches depends on the incision technique and suturing technique used by your surgeon.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Craig R. Dufresne, MD · Answer

Dear Kkem,
Surgeons do usually count the number of stitches needed in an operation. One hundred stitches seems to be an examie amount since there are some single sutures as well as seam sutures that are needed.

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