Over time as natural aging progresses the skin on our neck often loses its elasticity leading to sagging, wrinkles, and the development of excess fat. These changes can make you look older than you feel, causing self-consciousness about your appearance. A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, offers a transformative solution for those looking to regain a youthful, smooth, and contoured neck. This procedure targets sagging skin, muscle banding, and excess fat in the neck area giving you a revitalized profile that matches your youthful spirit.
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the neck and jawline by addressing common signs of aging. These include excess, sagging skin on the neck, sometimes called a “turkey neck,” muscle banding that creates prominent vertical lines or cords, fat accumulation leading to a double chin, and the loss of jawline definition due to sagging tissues. The procedure works by tightening the underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and reshaping the area to create a firmer, youthful contour.
Who Is a Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery?
Ideal candidates for a neck lift are typically individuals who:
- Are in good overall health without medical conditions that impair healing
- Have loose, sagging skin on the neck or under the chin
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit several weeks before and after the surgery
- Experience noticeable neck aging but are not necessarily ready for a full facelift
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure
Individuals with relatively good skin elasticity who are primarily concerned about fat deposits under the chin may benefit from less invasive options such as liposuction alone. However, those with significant skin sagging or muscle banding may require a full neck lift for optimal results.
What Are the Benefits of a Neck Lift?
Some neck lift benefits may include:
- Creating an enhanced jawline and neck contours
- Restoring a youthful appearance
- Improving self-confidence
- Long-lasting rejuvenation results
What Are My Neck Lift Options?
Neck lift procedures can vary depending on your specific concerns and goals. Below are the primary options:
- Traditional Neck Lift: A traditional neck lift addresses more extensive sagging and loose skin, often involving incisions around the ears and under the chin. This option is ideal for patients seeking comprehensive improvement, particularly those with severe skin laxity or significant fat deposits.
- Mini Neck Lift: A mini neck lift is a less invasive version of the traditional procedure. It typically involves smaller incisions and focuses on mild to moderate sagging. Patients with less severe aging signs may benefit from this option.
- Neck Liposuction: Neck liposuction is best suited for patients with good skin elasticity who want to remove fat deposits under the chin and neck but do not need excess skin removal. Liposuction can be performed independently or in combination with other neck lift techniques.
- Platysmaplasty: Platysmaplasty is a specific surgical technique focused on tightening the platysma muscle in the neck. It is useful for treating vertical banding, a common concern caused by sagging neck muscles.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Initial Consultation
The neck lift consultation allows Dr. Bartow to evaluate your medical history, current health condition, and cosmetic concerns. It’s essential to discuss your goals for neck lift surgery and any other procedures you may be considering. Dr. Bartow will examine your neck and face to determine which surgical techniques will best address your unique anatomy. You’ll also receive information about the expected outcomes, recovery process, and potential risks.
Preoperative Instructions
Before your neck lift Dr. Bartow will provide detailed preoperative instructions to ensure a smooth surgery and recovery. One of the most important steps is to avoid smoking, as it can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. You should stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery. Additionally, certain medications and supplements such as aspirin, blood thinners, and herbal supplements can increase the risk of bleeding so Dr. Bartow will advise you to stop taking them before the procedure. It’s also essential to arrange for assistance, as you’ll need someone to drive you home after the surgery and help with daily activities during the first few days of recovery.
During the Procedure
Every neck lift procedure is tailored to address each patient’s specific anatomy and concerns. It typically begins with the administration of anesthesia, which can be either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s preference. Once anesthesia is in effect, incisions are made. For a traditional neck lift, these incisions are placed around the ears, extending behind the ear and into the hairline, with an additional incision under the chin if necessary. The incisions in a mini neck lift are smaller but are still strategically placed to achieve effective results. The next step involves reshaping and tightening the area; Dr. Bartow removes excess fat and tightens the underlying muscles, particularly the platysma muscle, if there is muscle banding, to create a smooth, contoured neck. After the muscles are tightened and the fat removed, the skin is carefully redraped over the newly sculpted neck, with any excess skin trimmed away. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Finally, the area is bandaged, and small drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup during recovery.
What Can I Expect During Neck Lift Recovery?
Recovery from neck lift surgery varies based on the complexity of the procedure and your body’s healing process. Here’s what you can expect:
First Few Days
During the first few days after your neck lift surgery you can expect some swelling and bruising, especially around the neck and jawline. These symptoms are expected during the healing process and will gradually subside. You may also experience mild discomfort or a feeling of tightness which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. To help reduce swelling and support healing Dr. Bartow may instruct you to wear a compression garment. If drains were placed during the procedure they are usually removed within one to two days after surgery.
First Few Weeks
As the swelling continues to decrease, you’ll notice improvements in the contour of your neck and jawline. This gradual reduction in swelling allows the results of your neck lift to become more visible. Stitches are typically removed one to two weeks after surgery, depending on how quickly your body heals. During this time, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks to promote proper healing. However, light activities, such as walking, are encouraged to improve circulation and support the recovery process.
Long-term Recovery
Most of the swelling will subside within a few weeks, but it may take several months for all residual swelling to disappear and for the final results of your neck lift to become fully visible. To maintain results protect the neck area from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and avoiding direct sunlight as UV rays can damage delicate and healing skin and cause premature aging.
When Will I See My Neck Lift Results?
Initial results from a neck lift can be seen once swelling begins to subside, usually within a few weeks. However, it may take up to six months for the final results to fully manifest as the tissues settle and residual swelling resolves. Once healing is complete your neck will appear smoother, tighter, and more youthful, with a well-defined jawline.
How Much Does a Neck Lift Cost?
The cost of a neck lift can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, geographic location, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, neck lift surgery in the United States can range from $5,000 to $12,000. In 2023, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an average neck lift surgeon fee of $7,885. On top of the surgeon’s fee, it’s important to factor in the additional costs, including anesthesia fees, surgical facility costs, compression garments, and pain medications. During your consultation you can discuss the various elements that go into your neck lift cost.
Neck Lift FAQ
What other procedures can be combined with a neck lift?
Other facial rejuvenation procedures can often be combined with a neck lift, such as a facelift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), or chin augmentation to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Is neck lift surgery painful?
Patients typically experience mild discomfort after neck lift surgery, which can be managed with pain medication. Most patients report that the tightness in the neck is more noticeable than actual pain.
Does a neck lift leave scars?
Neck lift surgery does leave scars, but they are typically well-hidden. Incisions are strategically placed behind the ears and sometimes under the chin to minimize visibility. Over time these scars fade and become less noticeable especially with proper aftercare and sun protection during the healing process.
What are the risks associated with neck lift surgery?
As with any surgery, a neck lift carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, scarring, and unfavorable results. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon can help minimize these risks.
How long do the results of a neck lift last?
Neck lift results are long-lasting, but a neck lift does not stop the natural aging process. Most patients enjoy their results for 10 to 15 years especially if they maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect their skin from sun damage.
