Neck Fat Reduction

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

There are three types of procedures to reduce neck fat. These include noninvasive, minimally invasive, and short-incision surgery.

• Noninvasive: This is an enzymatic injection of fat dissolvers (Kybella)  which is limited to the fat of the neck.
• Minimally invasive: This treatment includes liposuction.
• Short incision surgery: This utilizes hidden incisions behind the ear and in the chin to directly see the fat that is being removed.

WHAT WILL FAT REDUCTION HELP?

It will help restore the contour of the neck and provide better balance and harmony to the other facial structures by removing unwanted fat accumulation. The fat of the neck can either be congenital or acquired, it is usually diet-resistant.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR A NECK FAT REDUCTION SURGERY?

To see if you are a candidate your board certified plastic surgeon in California will look at the location of the fat on the neck as well as the elasticity of your skin. This will help determine which technique will give the best results.

HOW IS NECK FAT PERFORMED?

NONINVASIVE

The injection of enzymatic fat dissolvers (Kybella) is carried out in a series of four injections. The enzymes injected are done approximately one month apart. This allows a layered removal of the fat while minimizing damage to the underlying structures. Since the enzyme can damage facial motor nerves, the injection sites are limited to the lower neck. This injectable procedure is done without anesthesia.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Utilizing small incisions behind the ear and in the chin crease, small caliber liposuction cannulas are inserted under the skin to remove the unwanted fat that is limited to the area that is on top of the muscles. Liposuction of the neck can be performed under local or general anesthesia to minimize any discomfort.

SHORT INCISION SURGERY

This is performed under direct visualization through small hidden incisions behind the ear and under the chin to directly remove the fat. Since the fat and important neck structures are directly seen, the unwanted fat that is located both above and below the muscle can be safely removed.

HOW LONG WILL THE NECK FAT REMOVAL RESULTS LAST?

The results are permanent. We are all born with a finite amount of fat cells. As we gain or lose weight the fat cells expand or compress. Once they are removed, they will never return to the area of removal.

HOW LONG DOES NECK FAT REDUCTION TAKE TO RECOVER?

NON-INVASIVE

The enzymatic injection of fat dissolvers (Kybella) results in a moderate amount of swelling for several days. Patients often return to work the next day.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Liposuction swelling is mild to moderate and requires the use of a compressive neck brace for at least 3 to 4 days, then just evenings for six weeks. Patients usually return to work in 4-5 days.

SHORT INCISION SURGERY

Swelling after direct removal of fat is moderate. Often drains are placed to remove oozing fluids under the neck skin. The drains are removed in 1 to 2 days and the individual can return to work in 5 to 7 days.

ALTERNATIVES TO NECK FAT REDUCTION

Obtaining your optimal weight can and will reduce neck fat. However, if the fat is diet resistant or hereditary, then no matter how much weight you lose, it will not reduce the neck fat.

WHAT WILL NOT BE HELPED BY NECK FAT REDUCTION?

Where ever fat is removed to improve contour there is resultant skin laxity. Depending on the individual’s skin quality the skin may or may not “shrink” to the new underlying contour.

CAN I COMBINE IT WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?

Yes. Neck fat reduction is often combined with other procedures in the face. Specifically, to help shrink the skin after liposuction, using injectable radio frequency (Thermi).  After fat removal,  a “neck lift” is completed by removing skin behind the ear and tightening the muscles of the neck.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS OF NECK LIFT

Besides the very low general risks of any surgical procedure such as bleeding, infection, and anesthesia, there is an additional uncommon risk of temporary or permanent nerve damage for both motor and sensory nerves.

COST OF A NECK LIFT?

The neck fat reduction fees are based on the anesthesia used (local vs sedation or general anesthesia), the facility (minor surgical suite, outpatient operating room, or hospital setting) and if combined with other procedures. All pre-and post-operative care are included. Some preoperative laboratory analysis may be required (usually covered by your medical insurance).

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

The most important factor to consider is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced, and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who are experts in neck fat reduction techniques. The Imagine Plastic Surgery team uniquely provides the full array of both non-surgical and surgical alternatives, thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options”. For more information, call and schedule a consultation.