Targeted liposuction in the neck, by Haute Beauty Expert Dr. Gary Linkov helps to reduce the appearance of a double chin and, make your neck more slender. The simple procedure is performed in-office by Dr. Linkov, and can completely transform your look.

Dr. Gary Linkov is a dual Ivy League-educated facial plastic surgeon. A native of New York, he graduated as salutatorian from Cornell University with a focus on psychology. Before, during, and after his undergraduate years, Dr. Linkov pursued advanced art training in painting, sketching, and sculpture, including a six-week scholarship program in Florence, Italy at the Lorenzo de’ Medici Italian International Institute.

We sat down with Dr. Linkov to learn more about the procedure.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

HB: What concerns does liposuction in the neck address?

The problem with excess fat on the neck and under the chin is that it can form even on height/weight proportionate individuals. Diet and exercise will not help remove this targeted fat accumulation. Neck liposuction may be the answer if you have a double chin that detracts from your chin or jawline definition or a thick neck that looks out of place. With neck liposuction, double chins can be removed and neck thickness can be decreased. This will improve the overall appearance of your neck and face, especially your profile.

Walk us through the neck liposuction procedure:

Neck liposuction done as an individual procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with or without oral sedation. If additional procedures are incorporated then deep (twilight) sedation may be indicated.

The general steps of liposuction of neck fat include:

• Marking (planned incision and landmarks)
• Local anesthesia
• Small incision 5-10mm is made at the submental crease
• Liposuction using a cannula with either a syringe or aspirating machine
• Closure: removable or dissolvable suture and bandage

HB: Who is a good candidate?

The best candidates for this type of liposuction as a standalone treatment have the following characteristics:

• Relatively young (<50 years old)
• Limited or no howling
• Limited or no excess neck skin
• No platysmal banding
• Fullness attributed to the superficial submental fat
• Realistic expectations

The neck liposuction procedure can also be combined with a facelift or other aging face procedures. Male neck liposuction is growing in popularity.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

HB: What is recovery/after-care like?

After the neck liposuction procedure and before you leave the office, antibiotic ointment is applied to the incision line and a head wrap bandage is applied. Bruising and swelling are expected for 1-2 weeks. The skin sutures may be removable or dissolvable, depending on surgeon preference and your skin type. Light activity is recommended for 2 weeks following surgery.

Following liposuction of neck fat, the final results depend on the ability of an individual’s skin to contract and stick to the underlying tissue. It may take up to 6 months to see the final result, and the degree of change can be somewhat unpredictable.

HB: What is the cost?

The neck liposuction cost will vary based on several factors. The location and expertise of the surgeon are two of the main factors that will determine how much neck liposuction will cost. For example, in New York City, the neck liposuction cost ranges from $1500 to $8000. Do not use price as the only indicator of quality. Instead, assess reviews, photos, and get to know your surgeon prior to making a decision.