Question: "I had a lower face and neck lift one week ago and there is a tight band extending across my neck from ear to ear. The tension is at best uncomfortable, often painful, and occasionally actually triggers a gag reflex. Is there anything that can be done to alleviate this tension? I couldn't live this way long term. I had a submental platysmaplasty, and sutures around and behind the ear."

Answer: "The neck tightness in the first weeks following the face/neck lift will loosen. I promise! We often over-tighten during surgery in anticipation of the eventual loosening that always occurs over time. It usually starts to feel looser the second week. The best thing to do to keep tension low is to keep your neck in a neutral position and limit your physical activity. Too much activity will cause swelling, which will further tighten the area."

Dr. Anand Patel specializes in procedures of the face and neck, with a philosophy of natural and long-lasting rejuvenation. Browse our gallery to see before & after images of Dr. Patel's facelift patients. Visit this page to learn more about facelifts and neck lifts.