A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to restore youthful definition to the jawline and neck. By tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin, and reducing fat deposits, it improves sagging, banding, and fullness in the neck. While a neck lift can be performed on its own, it is most often done in combination with a facelift to achieve natural harmony between the face and neck.

A neck lift can effectively address:

• Loose or sagging skin under the chin and jawline (“turkey neck”)
• Excess fat deposits beneath the chin (double chin)
• Vertical neck bands or cords from muscle laxity
• Loss of jawline definition
• Wrinkling skin in the neck area

You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if you:

• Are in good general health and do not smoke
• Have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
• Notice sagging skin, muscle banding, or fullness in the neck
• Feel your neck looks older or less defined than your face
• Are prepared for post-surgical recovery and care

Facelift surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation.

• The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or sedation.
• Incisions are usually placed around the ears and under the chin, hidden in natural creases.
• We tighten underlying muscles, remove or reposition fat and trim excess skin.
• Neck liposuction may be added for improved contour.
• When paired with a facelift, the results appear more natural and comprehensive, avoiding a mismatch between a youthful neck and an aging face.

Possible risks include:

• Bleeding, infection, or anaesthesia reactions
• Swelling, bruising or temporary numbness
• Scarring (generally well-hidden)
• Asymmetry or contour irregularities
• Rare nerve injury

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon reduces risks and helps ensure safe, natural outcomes.

Recovery after a facelift requires patience but is generally well tolerated.

• First week: Swelling, bruising, and tightness are expected. A supportive dressing or chin strap may be used.
• Week 2: Most swelling subsides and patients can usually return to work and light activity.
• Weeks 3–4: Bruising fades and results become more refined.
• Months 2–3: Neck contour smooths, scars mature and the final shape becomes evident.

A neck lift is a highly effective way to restore a youthful and defined neck and jawline. However, since facial aging rarely occurs in isolation, it is often best performed alongside a facelift to achieve balanced and natural-looking rejuvenation. Together, these procedures smooth, tighten, and harmonize the face and neck for long-lasting, graceful results.