Neck Lift or Kybella: Which is Right for You?

Middle age is becoming a time of reinvention for many folks. In addition to transitioning out of an active parenting role, many people in their forties and fifties are also dealing with the various effects of age. This time need not be one of fear; reinvention can be exciting! For men and women in the Salem area, a little facial refresher is often the ideal catalyst for positive change. Because the lower face and neck are two common places for fat and saggy tissue to land, two procedures we’re often asked about are neck lift surgery and Kybella. Determining which may be right for you takes time. First, we’ll start with the details.  

What is a Neck Lift?

Neck lift surgery works in a similar way as a facelift. This procedure focuses solely on the area below the jawline and chin, though. During a neck lift, fatty tissue is either removed or redistributed. The neck bands are tightened, which smooths and slims the neck. Finally, superficial tissue and skin are lifted and trimmed. A neck lift is performed through small incisions that begin at the front of the ear and extend behind the ear. The results of a neck lift include tighter, smoother skin and a slimmer profile.

What is Kybella®?

Kybella is an injectable cosmetic drug that has been touted as a nonsurgical alternative to neck liposuction. This treatment is intended to get rid of a double chin. It works by introducing deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring substance, into fat cells beneath the chin and on the upper neck. When absorbed, deoxycholic acid disintegrates fat cells to be metabolized naturally. Over time, the chin slims into a more attractive profile.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between Kybella and neck lift surgery may be simpler than you think. There is one prominent difference between the two when it comes to results. While Kybella gets rid of localized fat, and does so very efficiently, this injectable treatment does not have a tightening effect on the skin. A neck lift is more suitable for people whose skin is less elastic and will not bounce back naturally. Recovery from a neck lift can take several weeks. Most patients return to work two weeks after their procedure. Results from Kybella also take several weeks. Multiple treatment sessions may also be necessary to fully affect all unwanted fat beneath the chin.

Learn more about how to sculpt your perfect chin and neck. Schedule a visit to our Salem, OR office at 503-561-7000.