Neck Lift
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgery procedure that corrects loose skin, visible muscle bands and excess fat under the chin to create a cleaner neck and jawline.
Overview
With age, the skin of the neck loses elasticity, the neck muscle (platysma) slackens and fat can build up under the chin; the sharp angle between the neck and the jaw disappears.
In a neck lift, excess skin is removed, the slack muscle is tightened and, if needed, the fat under the chin is reduced. The procedure can be done on its own or together with a facelift.
Which approach is right for you is decided at the consultation, based on skin quality, how visible the muscle bands are and the amount of fat.
- A personalised plan that addresses muscle, fat and skin together
- Incisions placed in natural creases
- Can be planned together with a facelift if needed
- Structured follow-up and recovery care
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a surgical procedure that corrects signs of ageing in the neck. Sagging often described as a "turkey neck", vertical muscle bands at the front of the neck and fullness under the chin can be corrected with this operation.
The aim is to redefine the angle between the neck and the jaw and give the lower face a younger, more rested look.
Who Is a Neck Lift Suitable For?
- People with clearly sagging skin on the neck
- People with visible vertical muscle bands at the front of the neck
- People with fat under the chin that does not respond to diet and exercise
- People whose general health is suitable for surgery and who do not smoke or can stop
For people who only have fat under the chin and whose skin is still elastic, liposuction alone may be enough. For mild sagging, non-surgical options such as HIFU or a thread lift may be considered.
How Is a Neck Lift Performed?
The operation is usually performed under general anaesthesia or sedation and generally takes 2–3 hours, depending on its scope.
Incisions
The incisions run around the earlobe and behind the ear, and a small incision under the chin is added if needed. Because they are placed in natural creases, they are usually not noticeable once healed.
Correcting the muscle and fat
Excess fat under the chin is reduced with liposuction or direct removal. The slack neck muscle is tightened by stitching it in the midline and drawing it towards the sides; excess skin is then removed and the incisions are closed.
Preparing for a Neck Lift
- Tell your physician about all medicines, supplements and previous operations
- Medicines and supplements with a blood-thinning effect are stopped for the recommended period beforehand, with your physician's knowledge
- Smoking can impair healing, so a break before and after surgery is recommended
- Clothing that fastens at the front and does not need to be pulled over the head is prepared for after surgery
- For patients travelling from out of town, accommodation is planned until the first check-up
Neck Lift Recovery Timeline
The timeline below is a general guide; healing speed varies with the person and the technique used.
- First days: Swelling, bruising and tightness are normal; you sleep on your back with your head raised and wear a neck dressing
- Week 1: The first check-up takes place and any drain is removed; stitches are usually removed within 7–10 days
- Week 2: most of the bruising fades; most people return to desk work and social life
- Weeks 4–6: Strenuous exercise is resumed with your physician’s approval
- Months 3–6: The remaining swelling settles and the neck contour reaches its final shape
Possible Risks and Side Effects
As with any surgery, a neck lift carries risks, and these are discussed in detail at the consultation:
- A collection of blood under the skin (haematoma)
- Temporary numbness or, rarely, weakness affecting branches of the facial nerve
- Scarring, asymmetry or irregularities of the skin surface
- Delayed wound healing, especially in smokers
- Infection
Neck Lift or Facelift?
If sagging is limited to the neck and under the chin, a neck lift alone may be enough. If the cheeks have also dropped and there are marked jowls along the jawline, a neck lift is usually planned together with a facelift in the same operation, so that the face and neck match.
Factors That Affect the Cost of a Neck Lift
The cost of a neck lift is calculated individually, based on the plan agreed at the consultation. The main factors are:
- The degree of sagging and the technique used
- Whether procedures such as liposuction or a facelift are added to the plan
- The type of anaesthesia, length of the operation and hospital stay
- Post-operative check-ups and supportive items such as dressings
The information on this page is for general guidance only; diagnosis and treatment plans are decided individually after a physician's examination.
Treatment Process
Consultation and Assessment
Skin quality, the muscle bands and the amount of fat under the chin are assessed, and whether a facelift is needed is discussed.
Surgery
The operation is performed with the planned technique under general anaesthesia or sedation.
Recovery and Follow-up
Advice on the dressing, sleeping position and activity is given, and your recovery is followed up at check-up appointments.
Who is it suitable for?
- People with sagging neck skin or visible muscle bands
- People whose jawline has lost definition because of fullness under the chin
- Candidates whose general health is suitable for surgery
- People with realistic expectations who are able to follow the aftercare advice
Quick Facts
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Treatment Model: Single operation + follow-up visits
- Recovery: Most people return to desk work within 10–14 days
- Method: Platysmaplasty under general anaesthesia or sedation
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a neck lift leave scars?
Because the incisions are placed in the natural creases around the ear and under the chin, they are usually not noticeable once healed; however, every surgical incision leaves a permanent scar.
Can a neck lift be done without a facelift?
Yes. If sagging is limited to the neck and under the chin, a neck lift can be done on its own. If the cheeks and jawline are also clearly sagging, planning both procedures together may be recommended.
When can I go back to work after a neck lift?
Most people return to desk work within 10–14 days. Strenuous exercise usually has to wait 4–6 weeks; your physician will confirm the exact timing at your check-up.
How long do the results of a neck lift last?
The result is long-lasting, but because ageing continues, the skin may loosen somewhat again over time. Keeping your weight stable and protecting your skin from the sun help maintain the result.
What does the cost of a neck lift depend on?
It depends on the technique, whether procedures such as liposuction or a facelift are added, the type of anaesthesia and the length of the hospital stay. The exact price is set after the consultation.