Recovery

You will usually be sent home with a bandage around your neck and head, which can usually be removed the day after surgery. However, an elastic-type garment must be worn throughout the evening for at least two weeks. Stitches may be dissolvable, or will be removed up to seven days after the procedure. Although you will notice a difference immediately, the final results may not be clear until three to six months after surgery.

Pain, swelling and stiffness should be expected following neck-lift surgery. You may also feel burning, tingling, and sporadic sharp pain. Most of these symptoms will subside in a few weeks but it may take longer for the swelling to fully reduce. Your surgeon will usually recommend keeping your head and neck still and elevated at all times for up to ten days.

You are advised to rest for up to three weeks, taking care not to bend over or lift heavy objects although you should be able to return to work after seven to 10 days.

Oral pain medication and an antibiotic can be administered to reduce pain and reduce the risk of infection. However if you experience severe pain or abnormal symptoms you should contact your doctor or surgeon immediately.