Minimally Invasive Neck Lift – Ribbon Lift
Aging changes and gravity cause loosening and drooping of the tissues of the neck. Even as early as the late 30s, many patients will dislike the appearance of their neck and desire rejuvenation. There may be early jowls and these patients would traditionally be treated with a lower facelift and neck lift. However, a new minimally invasive procedure called the Ribbon Lift (Endotine) can provide significant neck lifting and rejuvenation. In conjunction with the Ribbon Mid-Face lift (Endotine Mid-Face Lift), the Ribbon Lift delivers the safe, simple and effective rejuvenation of the Lower Face and Neck.
What is the Ribbon lift Neck lift?
The Ribbon Lift uses a bio-absorbable ribbon implant to lift and secure the neck tissues through a short incision around the earlobe. The implant anchors the tissue during the normal healing phase and is absorbed by the body after 10 -12 weeks.
Who is a good candidate for the Ribbon lift Neck lift?
The Ribbon Lift is an excellent option for patients with early jowling, who need a well defined cervico-mental angle and patients with early neck laxity or platysmal bands who wish to avoid major invasive procedures. Ribbon Lift is suitable for heavy necked male patients or patients who have residual neck laxity following a previous Face-lift who require a further adjustment. The Ribbon Lift is suitable for patients in their late 30's to early 50’s.
How is the Ribbon lift Neck lift treatment performed?
Initial consultation will determine the goals of treatment, make note of any associated abnormalities or asymmetry and plan the optimum treatment to achieve the ideal result in each patient. The Ribbon Lift is carried out in the out-patient setting and takes approximately 45 minutes. A local anaesthetic injection is used to ensure that the treatment is as comfortable as possible. Liposculpture of the neck may be performed to remove any excess fat and an incision is made around the earlobe. The Endotine Ribbon is passed from below the earlobe to the anterior neck just below the jaw-line. The Ribbon is then pulled back to lift the neck and define the jaw-line and secured to the deep tissue behind the ear. This lifting action produces excess skin around the earlobe which is trimmed to complete the procedure. A short course of antibiotics will be prescribed.
Will the treatment be painful / cause bruising after Ribbon lift Neck lift?
Minimal discomfort is expected during the treatment and minimal bruising may occur, which will usually resolve after 1 week. Taking Arnica before and after will aid recovery following the Ribbon Lift.
When will results be seen follwoing Ribbon lift Neck lift?
Improvement in the neck and jaw line will be seen immediately following the Ribbon Lift. Any swelling will resolve in 1 week.
How long will the result of Ribbon lift Neck lift last?
The effect of the Ribbon Lift is expected to be permanent. However, this procedure rejuvenates the neck but does not stop the effects of gravity and aging, therefore, additional treatments may be required in 3 – 5 years.
What are the side effects or risks following Ribbon lift Neck lift?
Mild discomfort, swelling and bruising can occur. Infections with the Endotine Ribbon are rare. It may be possible to feel the Ribbon for the first 8 – 12 weeks and the area may be tender for the first 2 weeks.
When will I be able to return to normal activities after Ribbon lift Neck lift?
Restricted activities are advised for 1 week following the Ribbon Lift. Wearing a neck support is recommended for the first week. Avoid vigorous activity for 4 weeks following the Lift.