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Surgical Neck Lift Vs. Nefertiti Neck Lift: What’s The Difference?

The skin of the neck is thin, and as we age, our skin loses elasticity, causing wrinkles and sagging, with the neck typically being the first part of the body to show signs of ageing. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help turn back the clock on an ageing neck, but which one is right for you? Read on to learn more about the difference between a surgical neck lift and a Nefertiti, or a non-surgical, neck lift.

Tagged: Facial Treatments

Author: Mr. Bryan Mayou, MB ChB FRCS

Date: 15th March 2023

Your options for a neck lift

As we age, we gradually lose the youthful curves of our faces and neck. Stretched or drooping neck skin normally cannot be tightened with diet and exercise. It is unlikely that it will naturally shrink back. This is a frequent misperception, and it's why surgical intervention may be the only way to get your desired results.

 

The surgical neck lift

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical operation that removes fat and tightens the skin in the jawline and neck to improve visual indications of ageing. 


This surgical neck lift is a great option if you want to conceal some of the initial indications of ageing in the jawline and neck, such as sagging or loose skin, folds, and wrinkles. This surgery takes between one and two hours and is conducted under general anaesthesia. This operation is successful as a stand-alone treatment, but it is often paired with a facelift to produce significant effects. 


You should not experience much discomfort during the surgery, but you may experience some pain for a few days or weeks afterwards. Depending on the type of treatment, you will rest in our recovery rooms for two to three hours, once our expert staff has determined that your recovery is complete, you are safe to return home with a friend or family member.


The recovery period for this treatment will vary depending on the patient. We usually recommend that you take two weeks off work after surgery because there will be bruising and swelling, which may take up to ten days to subside. We also advise that you refrain from exercising for 4 to 6 weeks. As you heal over the next few weeks, smoother skin will develop on your neck and your scars will begin to heal.


Our knowledge of scarring procedures, combined with our highly trained surgeons, ensures a great result, especially since these scars are normally tucked behind the ears and are not visible. We’ve explored previously what scarring could look like after a necklift.

 

The non-surgical neck lift

If you’re wondering “Can I get a neck lift without surgery?” then the Nefertiti neck lift might be perfect for you. 


Using Botox injections, a Nefertiti neck lift targets the neck and jaw areas for a lifting and rejuvenating result. Patients who have lost weight in the face (leading to sagging) and those who constantly stress the neck (producing wrinkles) can benefit from this therapy. Those who lack a defined jawline, have wrinkled and sagging neck skin, have loose jowls, or have sagging skin around the eyes can also enjoy similar benefits.


As you might have guessed from the procedure's name, these features have been common in human societies since the period of the ancient Egyptians. Since then, people have admired Queen Nefertiti's bone structure, which gives her a well-toned, lifted jawline and a smooth neck. This is where the procedure's name originates from.


The results of your treatment should last for roughly three to six months. The majority of patients will see a smoother appearance and a reduction in lines and superficial wrinkles. When the effects of time, the results will gradually fade away, meaning you will need more follow-ups in order to preserve the effects of your treatment.


Depending on the region being treated, the therapy may take 20 to 30 minutes. Repeat visits may be quicker, lasting only 10 to 15 minutes.

 

Frequently asked neck lift questions

How is neck lift surgery performed?

The procedure is similar to a facelift in that the skin and underlying muscle are lifted upwards and back, and excess skin is removed. As a result, the neck is smoother, more defined, and sculpted.

 

How long does a neck lift take?

The surgery takes between one and two hours and is conducted under general anaesthesia.

How to choose which neck lift is right for you
In comparison to a surgical facelift, this non-surgical surgery has a far shorter recovery time of 1-2 days, and you can even return to work the next day. A non-surgical technique carries fewer risks, but the results do not last as long as a standard facelift. 


The best option for you will be a personal choice based on a variety of factors. During your initial visit, our expert surgeon will be able to discuss all of the possible surgical and non-surgical options with you.

 

What's Next

Our advisors can manage your outcome based on your expressed particular preferences, some patients desire a very subtle shift, while others may prefer something a little more substantial. It's important to manage your expectations, as a neck lift cannot alter your underlying anatomy (for example, the position of the Adam's apple) or halt the ageing process. This will all be thoroughly covered during your consultation. You can also view our patient images of neck lift results to understand what your before and after could look like.


If you’re unhappy with your neck or jaw due to sagging, loose skin, folds, and/or wrinkles then a neck lift procedure may be the right choice for you. Your surgeon will walk you through the options available to you and determine which is the best fit for you based on your stated goals. If your surgeon believes you are a good candidate for surgery, you will be asked to consider whether you want to proceed with your procedure. You are free to return to the Cadogan Clinic as often as you like during this time to speak with your surgeon about your future procedure(s).

 


Both of these procedures are performed regularly at the Cadogan Clinic, and our neck lift surgeons are leading experts in their respective fields. If you’re considering undertaking these procedures, get in touch with us today for a consultation with an experienced surgeon. 

 

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