Neck Lift
Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy)
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the neck and jawline by addressing the visible signs of aging. In 2026, it remains a primary solution for those seeking to correct skin laxity, muscle banding, and fat accumulation that does not respond to non-invasive treatments.
When You Should Consider a Neck Lift
To address loose skin, often referred to as a "turkey wattle," where the skin has lost elasticity and hangs below the jaw.
If you have vertical cords or muscle banding caused by the weakening or protrusion of the platysma muscle.
To remove submental fat or excess fat deposits under the chin (double chin) and along the jowls.
When looking for long-lasting results that typically maintain a youthful profile for 10 to 15 years.
If non-invasive treatments have failed to provide the desired contour for the neck and jawline.
Methods of Neck Lift
Platysmaplasty: A technique where the surgeon accesses neck muscles via small incisions to tighten and "sew" them together like a corset.
Cervicoplasty: A process focusing on the removal of excess skin, which is then re-draped and trimmed to create a sharper jaw angle.
Liposuction: Often performed alongside a lift to remove localized fat and refine the overall neck contour.
Combined Procedures: The surgery may be performed alone or in conjunction with a facelift or brow lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
How a Neck Lift Is Performed
Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
Incisions: Standard incisions begin in front of the earlobe, wrap behind the ear, and end in the posterior scalp to hide scars in natural creases.
Surgical Access: Small incisions may also be made under the chin to access the platysma muscles directly.
Tissue Adjustment: Muscles are tightened, fat is removed or repositioned, and excess skin is trimmed away.
Duration: The surgical process typically takes between 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the case.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Consult with a surgeon to determine if the anatomy requires platysmaplasty, cervicoplasty, or liposuction.
Discuss medical history and potential risks such as hematoma or nerve injury.
Arrange for a recovery period, as patients usually need 10 to 14 days off from sedentary work.
Follow specific instructions regarding fasting and medication adjustments before anesthesia.
Plan for post-operative support and a support person to assist during the first few days of recovery.
Tests Before a Neck Lift
Physical Evaluation: To assess skin elasticity, muscle banding, and the degree of fat accumulation.
Medical Clearance: Standard pre-surgical tests to ensure the patient is fit for general anesthesia or sedation.
Anatomical Mapping: Determining incision placement based on the patient's hairline and natural skin creases.
Life After a Neck Lift
Wear a compression bandage around the head and neck for several days to support new contours and minimize swelling.
Manage initial swelling and bruising, which typically peak around the third day post-operation.
Resume sedentary work and normal daily activities within 10 to 14 days.
Avoid strenuous physical activity and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks to ensure proper healing.
Monitor for rare complications such as temporary numbness or weakness in the lower lip during the recovery process.
Benefits of a Neck Lift
Provides a firmer, smoother foundation by tightening the underlying neck muscles.
Creates a sharper, more defined angle between the neck and the jawline.
Delivers significant improvement in appearance that can last between 10 to 15 years.
Corrects structural issues like muscle banding that non-surgical methods cannot reach.
Offers well-hidden scarring by utilizing natural creases and the hairline for incision placement.