Neck Lift

Neck lifts have
grown in popularity
in the past decade
Neck lifts are
often combined
with facelift surgery
Results last
10-15 years
based on lifestyle
Forefront offers
affordable, non-surgical
neck lift treatments

As we age, the delicate skin and muscles of the neck often show signs of aging faster than other areas. A neck lift is an anti-aging surgery that corrects sagging, wrinkled skin on the neck. For patients who want to reduce excess skin and fat around their jawline or delay the dreaded “turkey neck” that often comes with age, a neck lift may be a good solution.

If you’re considering a neck lift, you may come across the term platysmaplasty, which is a technique that tightens the platysma muscle in the neck. While the two procedures are technically different, most neck lifts do include a platysmaplasty for optimal results.

Neck lifts are frequently performed with facelifts, since the surgeon can use the same incision near the ears.

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What can a neck lift treat?

The neck does not usually respond to diet or exercise, making it a problem area for many. A neck lift can significantly change your profile and jawline, giving you tighter, younger-looking skin by treating:

  • Excess fat and relaxed skin in the lower face, which may cause jowls to form
  • Loose neck skin due to age or weight loss
  • Horizontal lines of skin (also known as neck bands)
  • Excess fatty deposits under the chin
  • Visible signs of aging in the neck or jaw area

While a neck lift cannot halt the natural aging process, it can significantly rejuvenate the lower face and neck. If you feel that the effects of time and gravity have impacted your confidence, a neck lift may be an excellent option to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

How should I prepare for a neck lift?

Before your neck lift, the surgeon may ask you to prepare by:

  • Undergoing a medical evaluation to ensure it is safe to perform the procedure
  • Taking certain medications or adjusting your current medications. For instance, you must avoid taking any medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Not smoking

What happens during a neck lift?

Neck lift surgery typically takes place in a surgical facility or hospital. Patients are placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation for comfort.

The surgery itself takes 2-3 hours, during which the surgeon makes small incisions around and behind your ear and under your chin. After tightening the muscles in your neck and removing extra skin and fat, the surgeon closes the incisions and applies a pressure dressing around your head and underneath your chin. The surgeon may place drainage tubes in your neck to drain away any fluid or blood, and they may also prescribe antibiotics to help keep the incisions uninfected.

A neck lift procedure may be combined with a facelift for enhanced results.

What results can I expect from neck lift surgery?

A neck lift can provide a smoother, more defined neck and jawline with a reduction in sagging skin, wrinkles, and excess fat. The results are long-lasting and can make you look years younger.
Full recovery from a neck lift surgery can take 3-6 months with several stages:

  • First week: Swelling and bruising are most noticeable; a compression garment may be worn to reduce swelling and support healing
  • 2-3 weeks: Patients can usually return to light activities and feel comfortable in social settings
  • 4-6 weeks: Most swelling subsides, and patients can resume regular activities, including exercise
  • 3-6 months: The neck continues to refine as healing completes, revealing the final results

What are the risks associated with neck lift surgery?

Some of the risks associated with neck lift surgery include scarring, infection, bleeding, pain, nerve injury, skin loss, and temporary hair loss at the incision site. However, your surgeon will thoroughly discuss these potential risks with you during your consultation, ensuring you fully understand the procedure and have an opportunity to ask any questions.

How much does a neck lift cost?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a neck lift is over $7,000 plus anesthesia, operating room fees, and other expenses. Ask your Forefront provider about non-surgical neck lift options, which are often a more budget-friendly alternative but still deliver great results.

What is a non-surgical neck lift?

Not interested in the downtime or risks that come with surgery? Forefront offers many non-surgical options with far less recovery time. For instance, injectables like BOTOX® can be used on neck bands to relax muscles and reduce wrinkles. Dermal fillers can restore lost volume to the skin, while laser treatments and microneedling can boost collagen production and rejuvenate skin.

Interested in learning more about your options for neck lift treatment? Find a Forefront location near you today.

Interested in Neck Lift? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.

*Treatment options may vary at each location.
Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment.  Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.

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