Direct Neck Lift in New Orleans
This hanging pouch of fat and skin obliterates the ideal angle of the chin-neck profile and definitely contributes to the appearance of aging. Other people develop a “turkey-gobbler” deformity, which consists of fat and vertical bands of loose skin (and sometimes muscle) extending from the chin to the base of the neck.
Some double chins may be improved by a procedure known as submental suction-assisted lipectomy (or cervicofacial liposuction) alone or in combination with a standard neck lift. Younger patients with double chins are the patients who respond best to submental suction-assisted lipectomy alone because their great skin elasticity allows the skin to snap back tight against the underlying bony jawline. Older patients have poor skin elasticity, thus generally also require some simultaneous skin tightening via a neck-lifting procedure.
In the case of severe “turkey gobbler” deformities, a standard neck lift may not be sufficient to remove the redundant skin under the chin. In these instances, it may be necessary to remove skin directly from the front of the neck – a procedure called a direct excision neck lift.
In male patients with “turkey gobbler” deformities who prefer not to undergo a facelift procedure, a direct excision neck lift by removing skin from the front of the neck is also a valid option.
Dr. Velargo literally wrote the book on direct neck lifting. In his chapter, Dr. Velargo details his experience with this procedure, particularly in men.
What Happens During Direct Neck Lift?
A direct neck lift can be performed under local anesthesia in our clinic’s procedure room or under general anesthesia. It can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures.
Based on the anatomy of the patient, the severity of the deformity, and any concurrent procedures being performed, Dr. Velargo designs the direct excision on the front of the neck. This usually takes the shape of a zigzag or a “T” for optimal scar camouflage once healing is complete.
After the redundant skin has been removed, Dr. Velargo addresses any excess fatty tissue with a combination of liposculpture (sculpting the fat by hand with sharp instruments) and suction-assisted lipectomy (liposuction) as needed. Next, the neck bands are typically addressed (the platysma muscle) and areas of fullness under the platysma muscle are also addressed (submandibular glands, digastric muscles, and deeper fat deposits). Finally, the incision is closed in a meticulous manner with sutures.
What Can I Expect During Recovery from a Direct Neck Lift?
If combined with a facelift, recovery will be dictated by the facelift instructions. Regardless, you will feel some tightness when the anesthetic wears off. Dr. Velargo will occasionally use drains if significant deep neck contouring was performed. Pain will be minimal. Swelling, bruising, and soreness are to be expected after a direct neck lift, but post-operative instructions and recommended medications will be given to ease any discomfort. Frequent application of these cool compresses for the first 72 hours helps to speed the healing process along.
Incisions are cared for a few times per day by cleansing the incision lines with hypochlorous acid (and hydrogen peroxide as needed) and applying bacitracin ointment.
All sutures are removed at one week. After all stitches have been removed, the scars will appear deep pink in color. Dr. Velargo will typically tape the incision and recommend taping for portions of the day for a few weeks. There will be varying amounts of swelling in and around the scars themselves. With the passage of time, the pink should become white, the firmness of the scar should soften, and they should become less noticeable. Each individual varies with respect to healing, but it takes approximately one year for these changes to occur and for scars to “mature.” But if you stretch the fresh scars, expect them to respond by getting thicker in order to “protect” themselves. Keep in mind that all incisions are designed by Dr. Velargo to minimize visible scarring
You must avoid turning the head or stretching the neck for two weeks. When you turn, move the shoulders and head as one unit or as though you had a “stiff neck”. This is important to prevent stretching the healing incisions, which may cause scars to widen, as well as putting tension on the deep sutures beneath the skin, which may cause them to pull loose. Because of this, we advise patients to not drive for two weeks following surgery.
Meet The Surgeons
We’re dedicated to delivering more than treatment—we build lasting connections through compassion, skill, and personalized care. Our mission is to provide exceptional service and results, making us the trusted choice for cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery in New Orleans.
Confidence Starts Here
Choosing a direct neck lift is a significant decision, and we’re here to guide you along the way. Our team prioritizes your safety, comfort, and satisfaction from your initial consultation to postoperative care. Experience the power of direct neck lift with Dr. Parker Velargo and regain confidence in your appearance and breathing.
Call us today at (504) 533-8848 to schedule your direct neck lift consultation. Let Dr. Velargo help you achieve the nose you’ve always envisioned while improving your quality of life.
Direct Neck Lift in New Orleans
What can a direct neck lift accomplish?
A direct neck lift can correct:
- Severe turkey gobbler deformities
- Lose skin in the neck
- Fatty accumulations in the neck
- Neck banding
How long do the results of a direct neck lift last?
The duration of the results achieved with a direct excision neck lift cannot always be accurately predicted. If the “turkey gobbler” deformity was severe, it will obviously take years before the condition becomes as bad as it was before surgery.
A direct neck lift turns back the clock of the aging process, but it does not stop the ticking. Having said that, a patient will generally look forever younger than had they not had the procedure done at all. Any neck drooping seen in the post-operative period is a result of continued aging. Had the surgery not been performed, the patient would have the “new” neck drooping on top of the “old” neck drooping, which was corrected at surgery. Tuck-ups help maintain a youthful appearance in the patient who chooses to have additional surgery. Tuck-ups are generally less extensive, less expensive, and quite effective. Dr. Velargo is also experienced in performing revision neck lifting as well.
Does insurance cover direct neck lifts?
Neck lifts are considered cosmetic procedures. Therefore, insurance companies do not generally cover the cost of surgery.
Contact the New Orleans Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery today to find out more about expert direct neck lift surgery.
What are the benefits of a direct neck lift for men who do not want a facelift?
Many men prefer a direct neck lift because it focuses on the neck without changing the overall character of the face the way a facelift might. It can dramatically improve a hanging “turkey wattle” while preserving a masculine appearance and avoiding incisions around the ears that some men find less desirable due to short hair or hair loss.
How is a direct neck lift scar designed and positioned on the front of the neck?
In a direct neck lift, the incision is placed along the central neck in the area where the redundant skin is removed, allowing the surgeon to directly excise the excess. The incision is carefully designed to follow natural neck creases where possible, and meticulous closure techniques help the scar fade and flatten over time, although it will always be present to some degree.
How does a direct neck lift impact neck banding and visible vertical neck cords?
Vertical neck bands and cords often come from the platysma muscle and overlying loose skin, both of which can be addressed during a direct neck lift. By tightening or modifying these deeper structures as needed and removing extra skin, the procedure can significantly soften or eliminate the appearance of neck banding in properly selected patients.
How do I choose between a direct neck lift and a deep neck lift for a heavy neck?
A direct neck lift is usually best when the main issue is redundant skin and a “turkey gobbler” deformity, especially in older patients or men who want a simpler approach focused on the front of the neck. A deep neck lift is more appropriate when excess fat, bulky deep tissues, and muscle laxity throughout the neck and under the jawline need to be recontoured for a slimmer, more sculpted neck and jaw.
How do weight changes affect direct neck lift results over time?
Significant weight gain after a direct neck lift can lead to new fat deposits in the neck area, which may blunt the definition the procedure created. On the other hand, maintaining a stable, healthy weight helps preserve the sculpted contour and supports longer lasting results.
What activity and exercise restrictions will I have after direct neck lift surgery?
Most patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that raise blood pressure for several weeks after surgery to protect the healing tissues and incisions. Light walking is typically allowed early in recovery, and a gradual return to normal workouts is guided by the surgeon based on how each patient is healing.
What skin care and sun protection are recommended after a direct neck lift?
After a direct neck lift, consistent sun protection with broad spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoidance of direct midday sun helps scars mature more favorably and prevents premature aging of the new neck contour. Once cleared by the surgeon, a tailored medical grade skin care routine can further support skin quality and enhance the long term appearance of the neck.
How does a direct neck lift interact with facial hair, beards, and shaving in men?
Because the incision is placed along the front of the neck, men with facial hair will want to discuss how the scar will intersect with their typical beard or shaving pattern. Many men find that a well planned incision can be camouflaged within or just outside the beard line, and as the scar fades, routine shaving becomes easier and more comfortable.
What special considerations apply to older patients with very lax neck skin undergoing a direct neck lift?
Older patients with severe laxity and “turkey gobbler” deformities are often particularly well suited to a direct neck lift because it allows more aggressive removal of redundant skin than a standard neck lift alone. Careful evaluation of skin quality, general health, and healing capacity is essential so the surgeon can tailor the incision design and closure to minimize tension and optimize scar healing.
Can a direct neck lift be safely combined with other facial procedures for more comprehensive rejuvenation?
Some patients choose to combine a direct neck lift with procedures such as eyelid surgery, brow lift, or facial fat grafting to achieve balanced rejuvenation of the entire face. Combining surgeries can sometimes streamline recovery and anesthesia time, but the plan must be individualized to each person’s goals, anatomy, and safety profile.
What are the direct neck lift options for patients who cannot take extended time off work?
Because the surgical field is limited to the neck, many patients find that bruising and swelling may be easier to conceal with clothing than after more extensive facial surgery. With appropriate planning and depending on the nature of their job, some people are able to return to nonstrenuous work more quickly while still following activity restrictions during early healing.
How do smoking and nicotine use affect direct neck lift healing and results?
Nicotine from smoking or vaping reduces blood flow to the skin and can significantly increase the risk of wound healing problems and unfavorable scarring after any neck lift. Surgeons typically require patients to stop smoking and avoid all nicotine for a period of time before and after surgery to support safer healing and better long term results.
What are realistic expectations for direct neck lift before and after appearance?
A direct neck lift can create a more defined angle between the chin and neck and remove a hanging “turkey wattle,” but it does not change bone structure or stop future aging. Reviewing before and after photos of patients with similar anatomy and discussing your goals in detail with your surgeon are key steps in understanding what type of improvement is achievable for you.