Neck Lift

About This Procedure

Franciscan Health plastic surgeons perform neck lift surgery to achieve a sleeker neck and jawline by removing sagging skin and excess fat deposits on the chin. Neck lift, or neck tightening, is the most popular surgery for a double chin - deposits of fat and skin just under the jaw. The procedure also improves the appearance of horizontal bands on the neck, all while creating a smoother, more slender neck.

What is a neck lift?

A neck lift is cosmetic surgery for a double chin and sagging neck skin. Your surgeon will work with you to create a treatment plan that will meet your goals and deliver the most natural-looking results. Depending on your aesthetic concerns and the outcome you're looking for, your doctor may recommend combining a neck lift with:

• Facelift
• Eyelid surgery
• Botox®
• Laser skin care

About the neck lift procedure

Neck lift plastic surgery is an outpatient procedure (you go home the same day). You will probably have general anesthesia so that you sleep through the surgery. During neck lift surgery:

1. Your surgeon makes incisions around the earlobes and behind the ears, extending to the lower scalp. You'll have an incision underneath the chin, if necessary.
2. The surgeon then repositions and tightens the neck muscles. At the same time, the surgeon uses liposuction techniques to remove excess neck fat.
3. To provide a smoother and sleeker neck and jawline, the surgeon removes loose skin and pulls the remaining skin tight.
4. When the surgery is finished, your surgeon closes the incisions using sutures and dresses the treatment area with bandages.

Recovery from neck lift surgery

The initial recovery period from neck lift surgery typically lasts one week. Common side effects include bruising, swelling, soreness and discoloration in the treatment area(s). These symptoms should subside a few days after surgery. Your doctor can prescribe medication to relieve pain.

During recovery, you’ll need to rest as much as possible, keeping your head elevated. You will need to avoid strenuous activities such as exercise for a while after surgery. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments so your plastic surgeon can monitor your healing progress.

Who is a candidate for a neck lift?

Ideal neck lift candidates have:

• Jowls (sagging skin below your chin and jawline)
• Submental fat (known as a "double chin")
• Loose, sagging skin on the neck
• Horizontal bands on the neck