Neck Liposuction

Neck liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes unwanted fat from underneath the chin to slim the jawline and contour the neck. This surgery uses advanced techniques to separate fatty tissue from its surrounding structures and remove it with the help of long, hollow tubes called cannulas. Fat collection under the chin and jawline is a typical sign of aging and often impacts a patient’s self-esteem. Neck liposuction removes fat cells for good while improving the entire area’s outline.

Dr. Steven J. Kronowitz is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. With over 25 years of experience, he provides patients in Houston and the surrounding areas with quality care and dramatic results.

To schedule a private consultation with Dr. Kronowitz, fill out our contact form or call us at (713) 523-0300. 

All About Neck Liposuction

The area underneath the chin and jawline is called the submental region. This area contains complicated anatomy that was misunderstood for quite some time. Early facelift attempts did not address this area properly, but modern science allows us to better understand the mechanics of the neck. ⁽¹⁾

Submental fat, often called a “double chin” can develop because of weight gain, genetics, or the aging process. Reducing this area can improve both frontal and profile views of a patient’s face. Neck liposuction utilizes small, concealable incisions to safely extract stubborn fat collections that are resistant to diet and exercise. Dr. Kronowitz uses a tried-and-true liposuction method to contour the submental area and create a youthful-looking jawline.

Tumescent Liposuction

Modern liposuction uses tumescent fluid infiltration to break up fat cells and ensure the procedure is safe. This solution contains a mixture of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine to numb the area and help control bleeding. Using a special cannula, Dr. Kronowitz administers tumescent fluid into the neck and chin. He does this through very small incisions near the treatment area. Once the area is completely prepared, he inserts a liposuction cannula and removes the separated fatty tissue with powerful suction. ⁽²⁾ This process allows Dr. Kronowitz to extract very specific amounts of fat. The tumescent fluid separates the tissue from important and delicate structures within the neck, making the liposuction procedure much safer and more precise. For patients experiencing a “double chin” or a poorly defined jawline, neck liposuction is a proven solution.

What is a Neck Lift?

Some patients have lax skin or severe wrinkles surrounding the neck that liposuction cannot address. In this case, they are typically better candidates for a neck lift. This procedure removes skin and tightens the platysma muscle to dramatically reduce bulk and restore a patient’s neck contour. 

Dr. Kronowitz makes longer incisions near the ears and under the chin to access the internal structures of the neck. From there, he places internal sutures to restore the muscles under the skin that create distracting wrinkles and excess skin collection. He then redrapes the skin over the area and trims the excess. Finally, he sutures the external incisions, restoring neck contour and improving the patient’s submental region.

Benefits of Neck Liposuction

Neck liposuction:

Ideal Candidates

The ideal candidate for neck liposuction has excess fat under the chin that negatively impacts their facial profile. This may cause them distress and influence their overall confidence. To qualify for surgery, they must be in good overall health with reasonable expectations for the potential outcome. Candidates are non-smokers or are willing to quit tobacco and nicotine use leading up to their procedure. They have good skin elasticity and are at a stable and healthy weight.

Personal Consultation with Dr. Kronowitz

At Kronowitz Plastic Surgery, we offer private consultations for each patient to discuss the procedure and formulate an individual treatment plan. Dr. Kronowitz will meet with you to perform blood tests and a physical examination to determine your health. He will inquire about your medical history and current medications, taking some time to suggest alternatives if necessary. 

Dr. Kronowitz will then explain your neck liposuction treatment in detail and make sure your cosmetic desires are achievable. You should be completely candid with him about your expectations for optimal results. If you are a good candidate, a member of his team will then schedule your surgery and provide you with preoperative instructions. 

Preparation

Before your neck liposuction, you should avoid anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen as they cause blood thinning and can lead to complications. Quitting tobacco and nicotine use at least one month before and after liposuction greatly reduces your risk of postoperative problems. For the same reason, try not to consume alcohol or certain herbal supplements for one week before surgery. It is imperative that you maintain a consistent weight throughout your procedure process as fluctuation can negatively affect your results.

For your comfort, consider creating a space in your home where you can rest and recover. You may also prepare easy-to-make meals to ensure your downtime is spent relaxing. We also require that you find a trusted friend who can drive you to and from our surgery center. 

Neck Liposuction Procedure

Dr. Kronowitz and his surgical team begin the procedure by administering the appropriate anesthetic. Neck liposuction typically requires local numbing and IV sedation as opposed to general anesthesia. Once you are comfortable, he makes small incisions around the neck area and inserts the tumescent cannula. He then administers the fluid until the treatment area is prepared for liposuction.

Using a different cannula, Dr. Kronowitz removes excess fat from the submental region with suction. After reaching your optimal contour and jawline shape, he removes the cannula and cleans the incision sites. Since they are so small, they usually do not require sutures. He then places a compression garment around the neck that curbs swelling and preserves your results throughout recovery. The procedure takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete. 

Recovery & Results

Neck liposuction is an outpatient procedure. You may experience some swelling and bruising around the area in the initial stages of your recovery. By the third or fourth postoperative week, most of the swelling will dissipate and your results will become more apparent.

Your final neck contour may take up to 3 months to completely settle in. During this time, your jawline will become more defined. Liposuction permanently removes fatty tissue, so these results are incredibly long-lasting. Maintaining a healthy weight and wearing sunscreen will help immensely to preserve your new contour and protect your skin.

Cost of Neck Liposuction in Houston, TX

Dr. Kronowitz creates personalized treatment plans for each individual to tackle their cosmetic concerns. The cost of neck liposuction varies between patients depending on the extent of the procedure, their skin quality, and other surgical factors. 

To schedule your neck liposuction consultation, call us at (713) 523-0300 or fill out this contact form today. We look forward to hearing from you.

FAQ

References

1. Hatef D, Koshy J, Sandoval S, Echo A, Izaddoost S, Hollier L. The Submental Fat Compartment of the Neck. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2009;23(04):288-291. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1242180
2. Persing S, Steinbacher DM. Submental Liposuction. Aesthetic Orthognathic Surgery and Rhinoplasty. 2019;21(3):535-546. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119187127.ch21