Neck Lift Discharge Advice

A neck lift is a surgical procedure that aims to lift and reshape the neck area into a more pleasing and youthful contour. We hereby offer neck lift discharge advice:

• Should you experience undue pain, excessive swelling, redness, hardness, a raised temperature or feel unwell, please contact the hospital where you had your procedure, or your Consultant directly if you have been asked to do so.
• You will need to sleep upright, well-supported with pillows for 2 weeks following surgery.
• I now in fact ask patients to lie flat if possible for 1 to 2 weeks with a rolled towel under the nape of the neck if necessary. This is so that any fluid/seroma/blood collects at the back of the neck rather than in the face.
• Depending on your job, you should be able to return to work within 2 weeks after the operation. I advise 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.
• You will need to sleep upright, well-supported with pillows for 2 weeks following surgery.
• You will experience bruising and swelling around the face and ears. This is normal and will gradually settle over the next 2 to 3 weeks.
• Cold compresses can be applied to the cheeks and neck to soothe the area.
• Avoid bending down or forward as this will increase the pressure in the face and may lead to bleeding.
• Take painkillers as directed, these are usually Paracetamol-based. Please avoid taking any Aspirin-based medications as these can cause bleeding.
• You should avoid hot baths and showers for 1 week after surgery. Avoid steam baths and saunas for at least 1 month following surgery.
• Hair can be washed, but this should be done salon-style, not bending forward. A mild, non-perfumed shampoo should be used and care taken near the areas operated on.
• You may be given a face garment to wear to help prevent swelling. It is important that this is fitted correctly and is not applied too tightly. Please ensure you are clear on how to manage this garment at home before leaving the ward.
• Your cheeks and/or neck may be numb in areas, it is important that you check your skin for any areas of redness or new swelling and ensure the face garment (if wearing one) is not rubbing or causing any soreness to the skin — this can potentially happen if it is worn to tightly.
• Facial stitches will be removed at 4 to 7 days following surgery.
• Surgical clips or sutures used in the hairline are usually removed at 7 to 12 days following surgery.
• Please refrain from smoking as this prevents good wound healing.
• Avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks (walking and gentle stretching is fine).
• Depending on your job, you should be able to return to work within 2 weeks after the operation.
• Dissolvable stitches are used under the skin. Occasionally these do not completely dissolve and can poke through the skin, particularly around the ear. These need to be removed by the nurse, therefore please contact Nuffield Hospital or your Consultant directly to arrange an appointment to have this done. Do not attempt to remove the stitch knots yourself.

 
For more information on the Neck Lift procedure or to book a consultation, call 01223 214 960, or contact our team.