Finally Getting the Neck I Always Wanted - Wayne, PA

I went to Dr. Pontell because at age 60 my eyes, neck and jawline were starting to look saggy and old. I work in a high pressure, fast paced environment which demands innovation, creativity and "next gen" solutions. Looking old is the antithesis of these requirements. So, after a little research on Realself and a few consultations I chose Dr. Pontell. I chose him because he was very clear about what he could do for me and his "matter-of-fact", approachable style resonated with me. I asked him as many questions as I could think of, he answered them all thoughtfully and truthfully. He asked me about my goals and together we created an approach that would get me the results that I was looking for. I chose to get upper and lower eyes and a neck lift. Dr. Pontell performed the surgery at a local surgery center. I did not want general anesthesia so I had the procedure done under IV sedation. I was "in and out" of it for the entire procedure and was getting back pains during the last 30 minutes. Not sure I would recommend this approach to others, but, it was the best option for me. I hired Concierge Nursing (Lana) to pick me up after surgery and get me settled at home. The original plan was for Lana to stay overnight. Once she saw how well I was doing, we changed the plan and she left at midnight. I was very grateful for her presence and skills. She works with a few plastic surgeons in the area. She gave me the confidence that I could "go it alone" and she explained all of the medications, timing, schedule etc. (Truth is, I did not want to coerce any family members in to assisting me. This was my choice and I did not want to impose my choice on others). I am glad I had Lana but if you have someone who will be attentive, you'll be fine. The surgery was easier than expected, the recovery more involved than I expected. I was never in pain, but, I was in sustained discomfort. I took 6 of the prescription pain killers.. For the most part Tylenol did the trick and took the edge off. For me, the pain was mostly around my ears. I hated having my ears squished. I was so grateful to have the dressing removed after the first day, a little rest for my ears. But then I had the dressing replaced (but not as tight as day 1) and wore it for the next 5 days. Again, I was grateful to remove the dressing after 5 days and even more grateful to be able to wash my hair. I spent the first full week recovering. I did very little, but, I did walk to the Dr. Pontell's office. He wasn't overly supportive of my exertion. So, I dialed it back and spent the next two weeks really trying to rest, I added exercise and training session toward the end of that time period. I'm now three weeks out and Dr. Pontell has released me for full training. My only constraint is turning my head. I have to try and avoid this for the next three weeks.

So...three weeks out...was it worth it? A resounding "yes" I am thrilled with my jawline and my eyes. I'm still swollen, I still have numbness/tightness around my neck so I do expect improvements over the next few weeks.

I highly recommend Dr. Pontell. He is a technically skilled surgeon, he listens well, and his execution is flawless. I'll post some photos shortly.