The neck is often the first place aging becomes visible—and the hardest to hide. A neck lift eliminates "turkey neck," tightens sagging skin, and restores a defined jawline that takes years off your appearance.
Schedule Consultation View ResultsA neck lift—also called a lower rhytidectomy or platysmaplasty—is a surgical procedure that rejuvenates the neck and jawline by removing excess skin, tightening underlying muscles, and eliminating fat deposits that create a "turkey neck" appearance.
The neck ages differently than the face. Skin becomes loose, fat accumulates under the chin, and the platysma muscle (which runs from the collarbone to the jaw) separates, creating visible vertical bands. A neck lift addresses all of these issues to restore a smooth, defined profile.
These are the changes that bring patients to my office—and that a neck lift can dramatically improve.
Loose, hanging skin under the chin that creates a waddle-like appearance
Visible vertical cords in the neck from separated platysma muscles
Excess fat beneath the chin that blurs the jawline
Loose skin that droops over the jawline, hiding definition
A blunted, obtuse angle between chin and neck instead of a sharp contour
Deep creases that circle the neck and add years to appearance
The approach we use depends on what's causing your neck aging—excess skin, fat, muscle laxity, or a combination.
The most complete solution for moderate to severe neck aging. Addresses skin, fat, and muscle through incisions under the chin and behind the ears.
For patients with early signs of aging who want improvement with less downtime. Uses smaller incisions and less extensive tissue manipulation.
Specifically targets the platysma muscle bands that create vertical cords in the neck. Often combined with other neck lift techniques.
For patients whose main concern is excess fat under the chin with good skin elasticity. Removes fat without addressing loose skin or muscle.
A neck lift can dramatically transform your profile and take years off your appearance.
Restore the sharp angle between chin and neck.
No more loose, hanging skin under your chin.
Clean, youthful contour from chin to collarbone.
Turn back the clock on neck aging.
Wear V-necks and open collars again.
Results typically last 10-15+ years.
A neck lift can be performed alone or combined with a facelift for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Ideal when the neck is your primary concern and your face still looks relatively youthful.
Best when both face and neck show signs of aging for harmonious, comprehensive rejuvenation.
I used to hate photos from the side—my neck made me look so much older. Now I actually have a jawline again! It's like Dr. Neavin turned back the clock 15 years.
Neck Lift Patient
"The neck is unforgiving—every bit of laxity shows. My approach is to create a smooth, natural contour from the chin to the collarbone that looks like you, just younger."
Neck lift surgery requires precise technique and artistic vision. Remove too much skin, and the neck looks tight and unnatural. Don't address the underlying muscle, and bands reappear within months. Leave fat behind, and the contour won't be clean. With over 20 years of experience in facial and neck rejuvenation, I address all layers—skin, fat, and muscle—to create lasting, natural results.
I also spend time evaluating whether your concerns can be addressed with a neck lift alone or whether a facelift combination would give you better results. Many patients come in asking for a neck lift when they'd actually benefit from treating the lower face as well. Getting this recommendation right is key to your satisfaction.
Here's what to expect from your neck rejuvenation journey.
We examine your neck, jawline, and face to identify what's causing the aging—excess skin, fat, muscle laxity, or a combination. I'll recommend the best approach (neck lift alone vs. combined with facelift) and explain which technique will give you the best results.
A full neck lift typically takes 2-3 hours under general anesthesia. Incisions are made under the chin and behind each ear. Fat is removed or sculpted, the platysma muscle is tightened (platysmaplasty), and excess skin is trimmed and redraped.
You'll go home the same day wearing a compression wrap around your neck. Drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation (removed in 1-2 days). Keep your head elevated and expect swelling and bruising that peaks around day 3.
Most patients return to work and social activities within 2 weeks. Sutures are removed around day 7-10. Final results emerge over 3-6 months as swelling resolves, and typically last 10-15+ years.
What to expect in the weeks after your neck lift.
Compression wrap. Head elevated. Drains removed. Ice packs.
Most bruising fades. Sutures removed. Neck feels tight.
Most return to work. Makeup can cover residual bruising.
All swelling gone. Incisions fade. Final contour visible.
Most adults with neck aging concerns are candidates for a neck lift. Here's how to know if it's right for you.
Say goodbye to turkey neck and hello to a defined, youthful profile. Schedule a consultation to learn how a neck lift can transform your appearance.
Schedule Consultation (310) 858-8811