While most people focus on the face when thinking about anti-aging treatments, the neck is often one of the first areas to reveal the effects of time. A sagging neck, visible horizontal lines, vertical bands, or a developing double chin can significantly detract from the youthful definition of your neckline and overall profile.

If you’ve been wondering whether you need a neck lift — or if you’re simply looking to refine your jawline and profile — this guide is for you. We’ll cover the most common signs, how the neck lift procedure works, recovery expectations, and when to consider this highly effective option for a rejuvenated look.

What Is a Neck Lift?

Neck lift surgery (also known as lower rhytidectomy) describes a number of surgical techniques designed to enhance the appearance of the neck and jawline by:

• – Tightening the underlying muscles
• – Removing excess skin
• – Redefining neck and jaw contours

A neck lift focuses on the area below the chin and jawline, while a full facelift addresses the mid-to-lower face.

How is a neck lift performed?

At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, our surgeons use customized approaches based on each patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and can take between 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the techniques used.

Common surgical techniques include:

• Lower Rhytidectomy: traditional approach with incisions placed behind the ears and extending into the hairline. Ideal for patients with moderate to severe laxity.
• Z-Plasty: z-shaped incisions vertically along the neck to improve skin tension and reduce visible scarring.
• Vertical Neck Lift: uses a vertical scar along the center of the neck — often for patients with extensive skin laxity.
• Submental Approach: involves a discreet horizontal incision under the chin to allow for muscle tightening (platysmaplasty) and fat removal.

Can it be combined with other treatments?

Yes! Many patients choose to pair a neck lift with:

• Chin implant: to create stronger chin projection and jawline definition
• Facelift or mini facelift: to ensure seamless harmony between the neck and face
• Liposuction: to refine neck and jaw contours further

Awakening Signs That You Are Ready for a Neck Lift

1. Sagging Skin or “Turkey Neck”: loose, hanging skin around the throat and beneath the chin can give the appearance of a “turkey neck.” A neck lift removes the excess, tightens the remaining skin, and restores a smooth, elegant neckline.
2. Visible Vertical Neck Bands or Lines: as the platysma muscle weakens over time, pronounced vertical bands can appear long before other aging signs are visible. A neck lift addresses these bands by tightening the underlying muscle and smoothing the neck’s surface.
3. Double Chin or Excess Fat: if fat deposits beneath the chin persist despite diet and exercise, a neck lift — often combined with liposuction — can help achieve a more sculpted and defined jawline.
4. Lack of Distinction Between the Chin and Neck: if your jawline flows into your neck without clear definition, a neck lift can restore that youthful angle, giving your profile a sharper and more refined look.
5. You’re Not Ready for a Full Facelift: not every patient needs a full facelift. If your primary concern lies in the neck area, a neck lift provides a targeted and effective solution without addressing the midface.

Neck Lift vs. Facelift: What’s the Difference?

While they are frequently performed together, a neck lift and facelift target different anatomical zones:

• Neck Lift: focuses on the jawline, area under the chin, and neck.
• Facelift: primarily addresses the midface and lower face.
• Combined: when performed together, a full lower face and neck approach ensures optimal harmony and a more comprehensive rejuvenation.

When Is the Ideal Time to Undergo a Neck Lift?

Most patients begin considering a neck lift between their 40s and 60s, as the first signs of neck aging begin to appear.

Common motivations include:

• Maintaining a youthful neckline while your face still looks youthful
• Correcting signs of sun damage and skin laxity from lifestyle or genetics
• Enhancing jawline definition and correcting a recessed chin

What to Anticipate From Neck Lift Surgery

Procedure Overview:

• Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia only
• Outpatient: All patients return home the same day

Recovery Timeline:

• 10–14 days: Most patients feel comfortable returning to work/social activities
• 1–2 weeks: Bruising and swelling subside significantly
• 4–6 weeks: Patients resume full exercise and activity

Ideal for: patients looking to restore neck definition, tighten sagging skin, or refine the jawline and neckline for a more youthful profile.

Advanced Techniques We Offer:

At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we tailor every neck lift procedure to the individual’s anatomy and goals. Our surgeons employ a variety of techniques based on your needs:

• Lower Rhytidectomy
• Z-Plasty
• Vertical Neck Lift
• Submental Platysmaplasty

Bonus Enhancement:

For patients seeking even greater definition, a neck lift can be combined with a chin implant to enhance the jawline and create a more balanced facial profile. This is an ideal combination for individuals with a recessed chin or weaker jawline structure.

Are There Risks to a Neck Lift?

As with any surgical procedure, a neck lift does involve some risks, though complications are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury (usually temporary)
• Scarring
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic result (which may require revision)

Choosing a reputable, experienced plastic surgery team greatly reduces the likelihood of complications and ensures the best possible outcome.

Ready to Revitalize Your Skin?

If you’re beginning to notice the signs of neck aging — or if you simply want to refine your jawline and profile — our expert team is here to help.

At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we’ve helped thousands of patients achieve elegant and lasting results with fully personalized surgical plans.

Book your neck lift consultation today and take the first step toward a more confident, youthful profile, contact our office.