PROCEDURE

Short Scar Neck Lift

A contoured jawline is an attractive and desirable feature, often attributed to young men and women. However, with age, some of us may experience a certain fullness under the chin, leading to a double chin or “turkey neck”, which makes us look older than we are. Unfortunately, this is a consequence of ageing that cannot be reversed by a healthy lifestyle, thereby prompting the need for surgical intervention.

One such intervention is the short scar neck lift. Unlike a traditional neck lift, this innovative procedure significantly reduces visible scarring and recovery time. The short scar neck lift strategically utilises a smaller, hidden incisions, beneath the chin, avoiding noticeable scarring while effectively treating sagging skin, prominent jowls, and loose neck bands.

Mr Kshem Yapa champions this procedure for providing subtle, natural-looking results preserving your hairline and ensuring you can confidently wear your hair any way you desire. Ideal for individuals in their forties and fifties, the short scar neck lift procedure in London offers a youthful lift while avoiding scars behind the ears.

At a glance

Procedure Length:
Procedure Length:

Approximately 2-3 hours.

Hospital Stay:
Hospital Stay:

Outpatient procedure; no overnight hospital stay required.

Anaesthesia:
Anaesthesia:

Typically general anaesthesia, but local anaesthesia with sedation may be possible.

Downtime:
Downtime:

1-2 weeks for visible recovery; full healing varies by individual.

Showering:
Showering:

Allowed after 48 hours with care taken to avoid direct water pressure on the neck.

Sleeping:
Sleeping:

Elevated head position recommended for 1-2 weeks to minimise swelling.

Smoking:
Smoking:

Prohibited for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery to ensure optimal healing.

Sun Exposure:
Sun Exposure:

Limited sun exposure is recommended for 4-6 weeks. Use a high-SPF when outdoors.

Driving:
Driving:

Typically restricted for 1-2 weeks post-operation and while on pain medication.

Benefits of a Short Scar Neck Lift

Opting for a short scar neck lift means choosing a solution that prioritises both efficacy and discretion. This procedure hosts a number of benefits, including:

  • Minimally Invasive:

    Tackles wrinkles, sagging jowls, and excess skin without the extensive surgery often associated with comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

  • Hidden, Minimal Scarring:

    The incisions are carefully hidden and minimised, ensuring that your surgical procedure remains your secret, even with your hair pulled back.

  • Quick and Comfortable Recovery:

    Limited incisions mean less downtime, getting you back to your routine faster and with less hassle.

  • No Need for Overnight Stay (for some):

    When performed in-office with local anaesthesia, you avoid hospital stays and recover in the comfort of your home. However, some individuals may be asked to stay overnight for monitoring, and general anaesthesia may be used in specific cases.

  • Natural, Subtle Outcomes:

    Achieve a refreshed, youthful look without appearing “worked on”—the results speak for themselves, quietly.

Techniques in the Spotlight

The short scar neck lift, as the name suggests, is a modified technique designed to rejuvenate the neck area with reduced scarring. This procedure is favoured for its less invasive nature and the inconspicuous post-surgical marks. The key surgical techniques involved are:

Unlike traditional neck lifts, the incision for a short scar neck lift is strategically placed beneath the chin. This ensures the scar is well-concealed and less noticeable.

Through the incision, accumulated fat deposits beneath the muscle layer can be accessed. Excess fat is either removed or repositioned to enhance the contour of the neck as well as submandibular glads which can become large or e malposiitoned with age giving the appearance of a fuller neck.

The platysma muscle in the neck can sometimes sag or band with age. Through the same incision, this muscle is tightened, helping to reduce the appearance of a ‘turkey neck’.

Once fat and muscle have been addressed, any excess, sagging skin is removed. This step ensures the neck has a taut and youthful appearance.

Short Scar Neck Lift Procedure

Working with an expert surgical team, Mr Kshem Yapa will ensure the utmost care is taken while your procedure is underway. Here’s exactly what happens during the procedure:

  • Anesthesia

    We ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. You’ll either be under general anaesthesia or have local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the discussion with Mr Kshem Yapa. General anaesthesia will be administered by a consultant anaesthetist should it be needed.

  • Making the Incision

    A single incision is made under the chin. This strategic placement means no visible scar in your day-to-day interactions post-recovery.

  • Adjusting Tissue and Muscles

    Through that incision, Mr Kshem Yapa removes fat, trims excess skin, and tightens neck muscles. If needed, enlarged submandibular (saliva) glands can also be addressed.

  • Lifting and Tightening the Skin

    The skin is lifted and tightened, providing a refreshed, younger look without appearing overdone.

  • Closing Up

    Mr Yapa closes the incision and applies a bandage. From here, your recovery begins, guided and supported by our team.

Side Effects and Risks

While Mr Kshem Yapa and the team take all necessary precautions to minimise potential complications, it’s important to acknowledge that no surgical procedure can guarantee an absolute zero risk factor. The short scar neck lift, although considerably less invasive than other options, does carry inherent risks and side effects. Below are some potential risks and side effects, each briefly elaborated upon for clarity.

Typical after surgical procedures, bruising and swelling may be present but will usually subside within a few weeks.

Although minimised, some scarring beneath the chin may occur and will gradually fade over time.

Patients might experience a feeling of tightness or numbness, which usually dissipates over time.

Rarely, individuals may notice a slight imbalance or asymmetry in the healing process.

As with any surgery, there’s a small risk of infection, which is mitigated through strict sterile protocols.

While manageable with medication, some patients might experience pain beyond the initial recovery phase.

There’s a possibility of blood collecting beneath the skin, requiring further intervention.

Some individuals may experience side effects from anaesthesia, such as nausea or allergic reactions.

Recovery

For most people, the initial recovery period takes roughly two weeks. During this time, expect some temporary swelling, bruising, and a degree of discomfort is standard. Nonetheless, adhering to the provided post-operative care guidelines and utilising prescribed pain-relief medications will facilitate a more comfortable healing journey. 

 

Mr Kshem Yapa advises dedicating a minimum of one week to ten days for recuperation away from work, permitting focused rest and recovery. Approaching the six-week mark, with Mr Yapa’s explicit consent, patients can typically re-engage in full, unrestricted activities. 

 

You will be provided with a direct phone line to our experienced specialist cosmetic surgery nurse who provides an on call service 24 hrs a day, from the moment you have surgery, for any questions or concerns you may have or any other support you may need. We take pride in making sure our patients are well looked after following surgery and want you to feel well supported throughout your journey with us.

Book your consultation

If you would like to discuss this procedure in detail and understand if it’s the right procedure for your goals, book a consultation with Mr Kshem Yapa.

Book a consultation
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If you would like to book a consultation with Kshem Yapa or learn a little more about our procedures and services please contact us via the form below to request a call back. We offer face-to-face consultations at our Harley Street Clinic and virtual consultations for those unable to attend our clinic.