Neck Liposuction – Key Post-Operative Care Instructions

Sagging skin and excess submental fat accumulating under the chin area (double chin) is a common aesthetic concern among both men and women. Genetics, age, and weight gain are the main factors that cause the chin and jaw line to become puffy and slack. Exercise and diet can help to some extent, but often fail to provide the expected results. Neck liposuction in New York is an effective and long lasting solution that removes excess fatty tissue and skin from the neck area. Performed using the FDA-approved Smartlipo Triplex laser-assisted workstation, the procedure removes excess fat, tightens the skin and reshapes the neck area to provide a more defined and youthful appearance.

With the Smartlipo workstation, neck liposuction can be performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. The laser energy is delivered via the device’s small cannula to target the fat cells through a tiny incision in the skin. The Smartlipo device comes with three separate laser wavelengths (1440, 1064 and 1320 nm) that work to liquefy the fat and tighten skin. Once the fat is liquefied, the surgeon will remove it via gentle suction. The benefits of the treatment include - short downtime, and minimal pain, bleeding and swelling.

Neck Laser Liposuction Post-Op Instructions 

Though neck laser liposuction is a minimally-invasive procedure and comes with less surgical trauma than conventional liposuction, proper post-operative care is essential for smooth recovery and optimum results. Patients need to take good care of the incision areas to reduce the risk of infections and other complications.  Here are some tips to improve recovery after the procedure:

Take rest as advised on the day following the procedure.Follow the surgeon’s instructions on wearing the compression collar around the neck and jaw line. Usually, patients are advised to wear this collar for a period of up to 6 weeks following surgery for optimal results. It is quite common for patients to experience minor swelling and bruising in the neck region after surgery (which may increase 2-3 days after the procedure). Cold compresses can be used during the first 24-48 hours to help reduce the swelling. However, do not directly apply ice to the area.  Take the pain medications prescribed by your surgeon. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen or any other product with this content unless approved by the surgeon, as this may increase the risk of bleeding.Make sure to keep your head elevated for the first 3 days after surgery – as this will help reduce swelling. Sleeping on 2-3 pillows is recommended.Avoid lifting, bending, or straining the neck area until recovery is complete.Avoid turning your head from side to side. Instead, turn your whole upper body.Look out for any abnormal swelling in the neck region shaped like a “goose egg” that feels firm or fluid filled. If this is noticed, make sure to contact your surgeon immediately.Patients should not engage themselves in any vigorous exercise and should avoid any significant physical exertion for a minimum of 3 weeks after your surgery.Do not smoke or consume alcohol for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery and 2 weeks after surgery. Smoking and alcohol consumption may inhibit your circulation and can significantly affect the surgical outcome, leading to severe complications.Do not rub, wash or massage your neck until after you are examined and told it is all right to do so by the surgeon.Take a shower at least once a day, keep the incisions clean, and inspect them daily for any signs of infection.Stay healthy and hydratedDo not drive until you have stopped taking pain medications. Make arrangements to have someone drive you home after surgery and help you at home for 1-2 days.

The speed of healing and recovery after the neck liposuction will differ depending on individual considerations. In most cases, final results become evident within 6 months after the procedure. Though results are long lasting, weight gain after the procedure can affect them. That’s why it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage your weight after liposuction treatment.

 If you are planning to have neck laser liposuction in NYC, choose an AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery facility. A reputable and accredited surgical facility will provide the services plastic surgeons who are experienced in performing this liposuction procedure. Skilled surgeons will provide customized treatment and comprehensive care through the recovery process.