Neck Liposuction 2024 Expert Guide with Examples
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A sleek, well-defined neckline makes men and women look more youthful, fit, and confident. But for many of us, submental fat just won’t budge — no matter how health-conscious we are. Neck liposuction can help by sculpting and refining the neck region when diet and exercise fall short.
What is neck liposuction?
Neck liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat from the chin and neck area. Unlike a neck lift that addresses loose skin, neck lipo targets fat deposits. It involves small incisions and a cannula to suction out unwanted fat cells. In the end, patients get more sculpted necks and jawlines.
The procedure is less invasive than a full neck lift surgery. You can get neck lipo on its own or combine it with other facial procedures like a brow lift or rhinoplasty for more comprehensive results.
Neck liposuction advancements and updates in 2024
In 2024, surgeons are using more refined techniques and cutting-edge technology to achieve better results with less downtime. High-definition lipo methods now allow for more precise fat removal and improved contouring.
Though not new, surgeons continue to integrate energy-based devices with traditional liposuction. These combine fat removal with skin tightening effects, addressing excess fat and mild skin laxity in a single procedure.
Common candidates for neck liposuction
Good candidates for submental liposuction are:
Healthy individuals: You shouldn’t have major health issues that could complicate the procedure or healing process.
Non-smokers: Smoking hinders healing, so you’ll have to quit before and after the procedure.
Adults with realistic expectations: Understand that chin lipo removes excess fat, but won’t fix sagging skin and isn’t a weight loss solution.
People with excess fat in the neck: The procedure works best for those with localized fat deposits in the neck and under the chin, often referred to as a “double chin.”
Those with good skin elasticity: Younger patients with good skin elasticity typically see the best results. Their skin is more likely to conform to new contours after fat removal.
Men and women wanting jawline definition: Removing excess fat can reveal underlying bone structure.
People committed to a healthy lifestyle: Long-lasting results depend on maintaining a stable weight through diet and exercise after the procedure.
Benefits of neck liposuction
Neck liposuction offers plenty of advantages for those looking to enhance their facial profile and appearance:
Improved neck and jawline contour
Better facial harmony and balance
Reduced “double chin” look
Minimal scarring due to small incisions
Relatively quick recovery compared to more invasive procedures
Long-lasting results with proper care
Only takes about an hour (or less) to complete
Disadvantages of neck liposuction
While neck lipo can provide incredible benefits, you should consider the potential drawbacks before undergoing the procedure:
Risk of complications: As with any surgery, there’s a possibility of infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Scarring: Incisions are small. But there may be visible scarring, especially if you’re prone to keloid formation.
Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising during recovery.
Risk of irregular contours: In some cases, uneven fat removal can lead to lumps or asymmetry in the treated area.
Cost considerations: Health insurance doesn’t cover elective surgical procedures like neck lipo, so it could be a major financial investment.
Types of liposuction techniques
Neck and chin liposuction has evolved over the years, with several techniques now available. Each method has its pros, and the choice depends on your specific needs and the surgeon’s expertise.
The most common techniques used in neck lipo today are:
Traditional liposuction
Traditional liposuction involves inserting a thin tube through small incisions to break up fat deposits and suction them out. The surgeon may choose this method if there are large volumes of fat to remove.
Tumescent liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a refined version of traditional liposuction. It involved injecting a solution of saline, local anesthetic, and epinephrine into the treatment area before fat removal. This solution causes the fat to swell and become firm, making it easier to remove. It also reduces bleeding and post-operative pain, leading to a quicker recovery.
Laser-assisted liposuction
Laser-assisted liposuction, such as SmartLipo, uses laser energy to liquefy fat cells before removal. The heat from the laser also stimulates collagen production, which can lead to skin tightening effects. This technique is particularly beneficial for areas with mild skin laxity, as it can improve skin tone while removing fat.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction
In ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL), surgeons use powerful sound waves to disrupt and liquefy the fat cells. This process makes the fat easier to extract. It’s great for fibrous areas or patients who have gotten lipo before. UAL can result in smoother contours and may have skin-tightening benefits as well.
Cost of neck liposuction
Understanding neck liposuction cost considerations can help you budget for the procedure:
Average cost range: In 2024, the average cost of submental liposuction in the United States ranges from $2,500 to $10,000. But prices can be higher or lower depending on your location, treatment plan, and expertise of the surgeon.
Factors influencing cost: Surgeon’s fees, anesthesia costs, facility fees, and any necessary medical tests or post-op garments affect your procedure total. The complexity of your case and the technique used can also impact it.
Insurance coverage: Health insurance plans usually won’t cover neck lipo as it’s an elective cosmetic procedure. But if the surgery is medically necessary (like reconstructive surgery), your insurance might cover some of the costs.
Financing options: Many plastic surgery practices offer financing plans to help make the procedure more affordable. These may include payment plans or medical credit cards for healthcare expenses.
The neck liposuction procedure
While the exact process may differ depending on the technique used and your case, here’s a general overview of the neck lipo procedure:
Consultation and planning
First, you’ll meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, medical history, and concerns. Your surgeon will evaluate your neck area, skin elasticity, and health to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. They’ll also explain the technique they recommend and what you can expect in terms of results and recovery.
Anesthesia administration
Surgeons usually perform neck liposuction under local anesthesia with sedation. But depending on the procedure extent and your personal preferences, they may use general anesthesia.
Incision
Once you’re comfortable, the surgeon will make small incisions — usually along the natural neck crease or under the chin. These incisions are a few millimeters long, which helps minimize visible scarring. Skilled surgeons place these incisions strategically to access fat deposits without creating too many visible marks.
Fat removal
With the incisions made, the surgeon will insert a thin tube into the fatty areas. Using the chosen lipo technique, they’ll carefully break up and remove the excess fat. The surgeon will work meticulously to ensure smooth, even results and a natural-looking contour.
Closing the incisions
After removing the desired amount of fat, the surgeon will close the incisions with small sutures.
Recovery and aftercare
Your surgeon will move you to a recovery area where medical staff will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia. You’ll get detailed instructions for your at-home care. Before going home, you’ll learn how to manage discomfort, care for your incisions, and wear compression garments to support healing and reduce swelling.
Recovery and aftercare timing
Becoming familiar with the liposuction recovery timeline can ease anxiety and stress:
Immediate post-operative care
In the first 24 to 48 hours following neck liposuction, you’ll likely have some swelling, bruising, and pain. Prepare to wear a compression garment, take prescribed medications, and avoid strenuous activities.
Expected timeline for recovery
Everyone’s healing journey is unique, but here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:
1-2 weeks: Most bruising and swelling subsides, and you may go back to work and light activities
2-4 weeks: You can gradually resume more strenuous activities and exercise, with caution and your surgeon’s green light
1-3 months: Most of the swelling goes away, and you’ll start to see your final results take shape
Tips for a smooth recovery
To ensure the best possible outcome and comfortable recovery period:
Follow all post-operative instructions
Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon
Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy, balanced diet
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
Be patient with your body’s healing process
Have someone around to help with daily chores if possible
Long-term care and maintenance
To maintain your results long-term, you must adopt a healthy lifestyle (if not already). This includes keeping your weight in check and protecting your skin from sun damage with SPF 30+.
Common side effects of neck liposuction
Neck liposuction is safe as long as you choose a reputable and experienced surgeon for it.
But it’s good to be aware of potential surgery side effects:
Swelling and bruising: These symptoms subside within a few weeks.
Pain and discomfort: In the initial week after surgery, you may experience mild to moderate pain. But pain medication can help you feel better.
Temporary numbness: Some patients experience numbness in the treated area, which goes away over time.
Scarring: While incisions are small, some scarring is possible. But it’s usually minimal and fades over time.
Fatigue: You may feel tired for a few days after the procedure as your body focuses on healing.
How long do the results of neck liposuction last?
Neck liposuction results can be long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The fat cells removed during the procedure won’t grow back. But the remaining fat cells can still expand in the submental region if you gain weight.
Factors that influence the longevity of your results include aging, genetics, and lifestyle choices. As you age, your skin will lose elasticity, which could change your neck’s appearance. Protecting your skin from sun damage and staying in good health will allow you to enjoy beautiful results for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can neck liposuction help with a double chin?
Yes, neck liposuction can fix a double chin. The procedure removes fat deposits under the chin and along the neck, creating a more defined jawline and neck contour. But be realistic with your expectations — liposuction addresses fat, not excess skin or muscle laxity.
Will I have visible scars after neck liposuction?
Neck liposuction should result in minimal scarring when an experienced surgeon performs it. The incisions are tiny and strategically placed in less noticeable areas like under the chin or behind the ears. Over time, these small scars fade and become barely noticeable for most patients.
How soon can I return to work after the procedure?
Most patients can resume work within a week or two after neck liposuction. If your job isn’t physically demanding, you might feel ready to return even sooner. Still, you should avoid strenuous activities for at least two to four weeks.
Choosing a plastic surgeon for your neck liposuction
Going to the right plastic surgeon is a must for getting safe and stunning results from your neck liposuction.
Keep the following in mind as you choose a qualified one near you:
Look for board certification in facial plastic surgery
Check the surgeon’s experience with neck liposuction
Review before and after photos of their previous neck lipo patients
Read patient reviews and testimonials on independent sites like Healthgrades, Yelp, and Google
Schedule consultations with three to five surgeons to compare approaches
Ask about their complication rates and how they handle issues
Gauge your comfort level communicating with the surgeon and their staff
Neck liposuction at Roham Plastic Surgery
Neck liposuction can be transformative if you struggle with excess neck fat or a less defined jawline. The key to a successful procedure lies in choosing a reputable surgeon, following their instructions, and having realistic expectations.
If you’re considering neck liposuction in Southern California, Dr. Roham at Roham Plastic Surgery offers expertise in this specialized procedure. With a background in general and plastic surgery, he brings a comprehensive approach to neck contouring. His commitment to individualized care and staying current with the latest techniques ensures you’ll get top-notch treatment tailored to your aesthetic goals.
To see if neck liposuction could be right for you, call 949-269-7990 to book a consultation with Dr. Roham’s team.