Face and Neck Liposuction Guide

By Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Michel Siegel – Houston, Texas Facial Plastic Surgeon

Sometimes, in spite of diet and exercise, it is impossible to reduce the localized fat that deposits in the neck, jowls and below the chin. In certain patients, liposuction may be extremely beneficial for improvement of neck and face appearance. Occasionally, in conjunction with a facelift procedure, liposuction will be performed to contour the neck and jaw area. However, liposuction alone can be an effective tool for correction of the “double chin” and other imperfections.
The phrase liposuction of the “face and neck” is somewhat misleading. To be more specific, liposuction in this general area involves the submental (below the jaw) chin, the jowls, and a small area of the cheeks.

Liposuction Below the Chin

Submental chin includes the area below the margin of the jaw, and extends onto the front of the neck. Regardless of one’s age, an inherited localized collection of excess fat beneath the chin makes one look chubby, older and less athletic. Liposuction is usually the simplest, safest, and least expensive way to treat this cosmetic problem.

Liposuction for Jowls

Jowls represent a small focal accumulation of fat on the lower cheek overlying the jaw bone. Prominent jowls make a person look old and are a cosmetic concern for both women and men.

The Platysma Bands and Liposuction

Platysma Bands are prominent vertical folds of skin on the front of the neck that develop in older patients. Platysma bands contain loose folds of superficial muscles as well as fat. Tumescent liposuction may improve the appearance of platysma bands. In addition, the platysma muscles can be tightened at the time of liposuction by making a tiny incision under the chin and using sutures to tie the muscles together. This procdure only requires local anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable.

Liposuction and Wrinkle Removal

Liposuction does not eliminate facial wrinkles, but there are modern cosmetic facial resurfacing techniques that do. Facial wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation, and acne scars can all be treated by any one of several techniques including CO2 laser resurfacing, chemical peel, dermabrasion, or a combination of these techniques. A combination of liposuction plus wrinkle removal can often provide a better overall cosmetic improvement than a facelift.
Not all patients are good candidates for liposuction of the face and neck. For some patients a face lift would be the preferred procedure, while for other patients liposuction would be best. Facelift may be preferred by a woman who has large folds of skin on the neck with little subcutaneous fat. Further discussion with your doctor will give you the right options.