What a neck lift is
The neck often ages earlier than the face. The skin loses elasticity, fat builds up under the chin, and the edges of the platysma muscle separate and show as two vertical bands. The angle between chin and neck softens.
A neck lift treats all of these: it removes excess fat, tightens the platysma in the midline and repositions the skin towards the back of the ears. Removing skin alone, without treating the deeper structures, does not give lasting results.
Who it is for
- people with lax neck skin and a blurred jawline;
- those with visible vertical neck bands;
- those with fat under the chin that does not respond to diet.
If the only problem is fat under the chin and the skin is elastic, liposuction of the area may be enough. If the cheeks have descended too, a neck and face lift is discussed.
How the operation is done
The operation is done under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation and takes about two to three hours. A small incision under the chin (for the muscle and fat) and incisions behind the ears, hidden in the hair and natural creases, are used. An elastic bandage is applied at the end.
Recovery
- First days: tightness and swelling under the chin, bruising; keep your head raised.
- 7–10 days: stitches are removed; back to light activities.
- 2–3 weeks: fully back to social life.
- 3 months: the final contour.
Risks and things to know
- haematoma, especially in the first 24 hours;
- temporary numbness of the skin;
- contour irregularities;
- scars that are more visible than usual;
- rarely, temporary injury to the nerve branch that moves the lower lip.
Results vary from one patient to another, depending on skin quality and age.
