Why does my neck feel so stiff after a neck lift?

Question

Why does my neck feel so stiff 6 days after a neck lift? How long will it take to feel natural again?

Sirius K. Yoo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  This is very normal and typical for several weeks after a necklift.  Your soft tissues were loose and sagging before the lift (which is probably why you had the procedure in the first place).  Lifting these tissues requires them to be tightened.  This, combined with the swelling from the surgery will make the neck feel quite tense.  As the swelling subsides and the soft tissues relax, you should notice a greatly diminished sense of tightness (but still see good results).  All the best!

Kevin Sadati, DO · Answer

Face and neck and tightness one-week postoperative lower
face and neck lift surgery is normal.Swelling and numbness after any face and neck lift surgery is expected
and is normal. Usually, most of the noticeable swelling is reduced within a
couple of weeks, perhaps in some cases a couple of months. Initial icing will
help to reduce swelling faster. Good luck and good healing

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear akopjak,Remain patient, my friend. You are in the early stages of recovery having left the operating table less than a week ago. I would continue your recovery regimen: refraining from exercise, avoiding exposure from the sun as well as steering clear from alcohol consumption. Rest will be your best bet for a successful neck lift at this point. Some patients experience stiffness for 2-4 weeks while others have prolonged symptoms lasting months.Check-in with your surgeon a month post op. I always recommend patients seek the highest quality care and treatment that only board certified facial plastic surgeons are equipped to provide. Sincerely,Ross A. Clevnes, MD, FACSClevens Face and Body Specialists

Raymond E. Lee, MD · Answer

Hi and this is a common question.  This is very normal.  A neck lift involves tightening the superficial neck muscles and skin. In addition there is still post surgical swelling. Also, there is some numbness to the skin altering its normal feeling. Finally, the head and neck positioning during the surgery adds to a stiff neck.  This will continually improve as the muscles and skin accommodate. Always talk to your surgeon about your concerns. A neck lift is a very rewarding procedure. Enjoy the results !

Todd C. Miller, MD · Answer

What you are experiencing is very common. In the process of tightening the platysma muscle, the muscle becomes inflamed and swollen. This creates the stiff feeling. This sensation will gradually resolve however it is very difficult to predict how long it will take. I typically advise patients that it could take between 2-8 weeks for the neck to soften up. Wearing a compression garment can help facilitate the healing process and also make you more comfortable. Make sure to follow up with your surgeon to ensure that you are healing normally.

Why does my neck feel so stiff after a neck lift?

Answers (9)

Answer: Neck lift recovery

Answer: Neck lift recovery

Answer: Why does my face feel stiff after a neck lift?

Answer: Why does my face feel stiff after a neck lift?

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Why does my neck feel so stiff after a neck lift?

Answers (9)

Answer: Neck lift recovery

Answer: Neck lift recovery

Answer: Why does my face feel stiff after a neck lift?

Answer: Why does my face feel stiff after a neck lift?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.