Put Your Best Face...and Neck...Forward

    /24-7PressRelease/ - BEVERLY HILLS, CA, July 30, 2008 - Normally when people hear about someone getting liposuction, they think of hips, thighs and stomachs. However, advances in plastic surgery have now made it possible to eliminate annoying fat deposits in the neck area. Even if a person is generally healthy and fit, as he/she gets older fat can often accumulate in the neck regardless of exercise or diet.

Neck liposuction can remove excess fat thereby reducing fullness in the neck due to heredity, aging or weight gain. A contoured neck area can help patients project a younger, more confident self image. After all, your neck is usually visible for all to see, so why not make it the best it can be?

How is neck liposuction performed?
As in most liposuction procedures, the plastic surgeon will mark the areas where fat will be removed. Small incisions are made behind the ears and a "cannula" (thin tube) is inserted into the fatty area. The cannula breaks up the fat deposits and suctions out the unwanted fat with a high pressure vacuum. The skin, muscles, nerves and blood vessels are left intact.

How long does the procedure take and where is it performed?
Neck liposuction is usually completed in about one hour as an outpatient basis, either in the doctor's office or clinic (in most cases). A variety of anesthesia may be used, from light to deep sedation, depending on the severity or expected length of surgery. In some cases it may be recommended that you spend the night in a hospital during recovery so you can be monitored by medical personnel.

What can you expect during recovery?
Barring any unforeseen complications, most patients can return to sedentary work a few days to a week after surgery. As with any cosmetic surgery, bruising and swelling is normal and generally goes away in about three weeks.

It is important to continue wearing the compression band your surgeon provides for several weeks after surgery to ensure the neck heals properly and maintains its shape. Some patients require a neck lift or face lift in addition to or after the procedure to correct extra skin that may sag after the fat has been removed.

How do surgeons decide if liposuction is for you?
All plastic surgeons should schedule an initial consultation to discuss the changes you would like to see in your appearance. Your surgeon should explain the different liposuction options available as well as any limitations or risks and costs. A physical examination will help the surgeon evaluate your overall health, medical history, weight and possible complications that could occur with any medications you are currently taking.

How much is neck liposuction?
The cost of neck liposuction can vary greatly, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Usually the cost can range from $2,500 - $4,500.

How do I choose a surgeon?
Look for a board-certified surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, eyes and nose. During the consultation, ask questions (and more questions), ask for patient references and ask to see before/after photos of past patients.

If you would like to learn more about how neck liposuction can enhance your appearance, please contact the Beverly Hills, California office of Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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