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Posted on November 20, 2023 in Neck
Stubborn fat beneath the chin, also known as submental fullness or a double chin, is a relatively common concern. This excess fat is often resistant to diet and exercise, making liposuction an effective alternative for people who are bothered by this fullness. After neck liposuction, this is what patients can expect during their recovery process.
What is Neck Liposuction?
Dr. Evan Ransom is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in head and neck cosmetic procedures like neck liposuction. Neck liposuction, also known as submental liposuction, is a minimally invasive surgery that removes excess fat from the neck and under the chin (the submental area). During the procedure, a small tube called a cannula is carefully inserted under the skin to break apart and suction out fat cells. Dr. Ransom takes special care to ensure great results for his patients; incisions will be placed in easily concealed areas, either behind the ears or under the chin.
Neck liposuction can be performed alone or with other cosmetic surgeries. Older patients with sagging skin as well as excess fat could benefit from neck liposuction combined with a facelift or neck lift. This can be discussed in more detail during a consultation with Dr. Ransom.
What to Expect During Neck Liposuction Recovery
Neck liposuction recovery is relatively short and minimally painful. Mild swelling and bruising are expected but should resolve after a few days. Most patients only require a few days off work and can resume almost all normal activities after 1-2 weeks. However, patients should consider the following postoperative instructions during the first week of recovery:
Strenuous Activity
Limiting strenuous activities during the first week will minimize swelling and help speed up patients’ recovery time. Strenuous activity includes physical exercise (running, biking, swimming, etc.) as well as bending down from the waist and lifting heavy objects. Patients should also be careful not to turn their heads until the incisions have fully healed. Sleeping with your head elevated for the first few nights can also prevent discomfort and excess swelling.
Wound Care
After surgery, Dr. Ransom will cover the incisions with a soft cotton bandage. This bandage will be kept on for a few days to protect the healing incisions and minimize swelling and bruising. Once the soft bandage is removed, a supportive wrap or compression garment can be used. In between dressing changes, the incisions should be gently cleaned with hydrogen peroxide applied on a Q-tip, followed by Vaseline or an antibiotic ointment.
Medications
Dr. Ransom will prescribe pain medications if necessary, but most patients can alleviate their discomfort with Tylenol and cold compresses. Be careful not to apply ice directly to the incisions and surrounding area. Additionally, aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided since these medications have blood-thinning properties and could increase bleeding. Dr. Ransom will provide a detailed list of instructions to guide you through an easy and safe recovery.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Ransom is a leading plastic surgeon in San Francisco known for his natural-looking results customized to each patient’s aesthetic goals. To learn more about neck liposuction and other facial cosmetic or reconstructive procedures, we encourage you to schedule a consultation today by calling our office or filling out an online contact form.
Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.
