What is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is a cosmetic plastic surgery that removes excess skin and fat in the neck to increase definition and tighten tissue for a more youthful aesthetic. The procedure varies depending on the individual condition of the patient. The procedure may be a platysmaplasty or a lower rhytidectomy. 

Neck Lift Procedures

Platysmaplasty

A Platysmaplasty is a neck lift procedure targeting the platysma muscles, which often become loose or create vertical banding over time. A platysmaplasty smooths the lines of the neck by smoothing away vertical bands for a more youthful, defined neckline.

Learn More About Platysmaplasty

Rhytidectomy

Rhytidectomy, commonly known as a traditional neck lift, addresses sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle laxity throughout the neck. This procedure lifts and tightens the skin and underlying tissues, offering comprehensive rejuvenation and a more elegant neck contour. 

Background media
woman resting hands on chin

What Can a Neck Lift Do for My Look?

A neck lift at FACES+ addresses all of the following aesthetic issues impacting the neck tissues:

  • Skin Laxity
  • Wrinkles
  • Creasing
  • Double Chin
  • Sagging
  • “Turkey Neck”
  • Excess Neck Fat
  • Jowls

Neck Lift Before & After

View All Neck Lift Results
textured background

What is the Surgical Procedure?

Every neck lift in San Diego performed by Dr. Cohen is entirely customized for the individual. The surgery will reflect the issues that the individual needs to address. The two surgical approaches are:

Lower Rhytidectomy

A lower rhytidectomy, commonly known as a neck lift, is designed to address the visible signs of aging in the lower face and neck. This procedure begins with carefully placed incisions behind the ears and sometimes under the chin. These incisions allow Dr. Cohen to remove excess skin and fat, smooth out wrinkles, and tighten the underlying tissues. A lower rhytidectomy creates a more youthful, defined jawline and neck contour by lifting and repositioning the skin to remove sagging and restore a smoother appearance. Liposuction may be used with this procedure to enhance the results.

Platysmaplasty

Platysmaplasty is a specialized component of the neck lift that focuses on the platysma muscles, which can become loose or form vertical bands as we age. During this procedure, Dr. Cohen makes incisions similar to those used in a lower rhytidectomy, allowing access to the platysma muscles. He then tightens and sutures these muscles to reduce banding and create a smoother, more youthful neck appearance. Platysmaplasty may be combined with a lower rhytidectomy to comprehensively rejuvenate the neck and jawline, addressing both the skin and underlying muscular structure.

Schedule A Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media

What is the Recovery Time for Neck Lifts?

Recovery from our neck lift in San Diego typically involves rest and careful post-operative care. Most patients experience some swelling and bruising in the first week, gradually subsiding over the following weeks. It’s common to wear a compression garment to support the healing tissues and minimize swelling. Patients can usually return to light activities within 10 to 14 days. However, full recovery and the final results may take several months as the swelling fades and the tissues settle into new positions. Dr. Cohen will provide personalized aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.

drawing

Dr. Cohen: Listed in America’s Best Facelift Plastic Surgeons

Contemporary face and neck lift procedures are at the forefront of plastic surgery, offering patients the chance to restore youthful definition from the jawline to the neck. Dr. Steven R. Cohen, a renowned leader in cosmetic neck procedures and regenerative treatments, is known for enhancing skin firmness and quality. With a comprehensive background in general surgery at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center and a fellowship in cardiac surgery at the NIH, Dr. Cohen’s expertise extends to plastic surgery training at the University of Pennsylvania and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. His pioneering work in craniofacial surgery includes directing the Craniofacial Program at the University of Michigan and the Center for Craniofacial Disorders at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. In 1999, he became Chief of Craniofacial Surgery at Children’s Hospital of San Diego and founded FACES+, a practice known for excellence in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Cohen has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as a Top Plastic Surgeon by US News and World Report and Castle Connolly as a Top Doctor since 2002, and is widely respected in his field nationally and internationally.

Office media

Neck Lift FAQs

Is a neck lift permanent?

While a neck lift provides long-lasting results, it does not stop the natural aging process. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and sun exposure will continue to influence skin quality over time, but many patients enjoy significant improvement for many years after surgery.

How long will I need to wear a compression garment after a neck lift?

Patients typically wear a compression garment for about 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery to support the healing process and reduce swelling. Following Dr. Cohen's guidelines regarding garment use can significantly enhance recovery outcomes.

Is there a right time of year to have a neck lift?

While neck lifts can be performed at any time of year, some patients prefer winter months for recovery, as they can wear scarves and avoid sun exposure while healing. Ultimately, the best time depends on your personal schedule and recovery needs.

How can I prepare my skin for a neck lift?

Pre-surgery preparation often includes staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and following a skincare routine with products like sunscreen and moisturizers to optimize skin health.

Will a neck lift leave visible scars?

Incisions are usually hidden behind the ears and sometimes under the chin. With proper care, scars fade significantly and are generally well concealed.

Is a neck lift suitable after weight loss?

Absolutely. A neck lift can remove excess skin and tighten tissue following weight loss, helping to define the jawline and restore a firmer neck appearance.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to a neck lift?

Non-surgical options like radiofrequency skin tightening, Kybella, or Ultherapy can improve mild laxity, but surgical neck lifts are more effective for moderate to severe sagging and muscle banding.

Is a neck lift painful?

Neck lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. Post-operatively, patients may experience some discomfort, bruising, and swelling, but pain is typically manageable with prescribed medications.

Can a neck lift help with a double chin?

Yes, a neck lift can significantly improve the appearance of a double chin by removing excess fat and tightening the skin in the chin and jawline area. Liposuction or liposculpture may also be used in conjunction with a neck lift to enhance the definition of the chin.

Is a neck lift effective for people with a lot of loose skin?

Yes, a neck lift is particularly effective for individuals who have substantial loose skin in the neck area, often resulting from aging, weight loss, or genetics. The procedure removes excess skin and tightens underlying tissues to provide a smoother, firmer neck contour.

textured background

the Journey to a New You Starts Here Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (858) 544-3005.
Contact Us