Neck Lift

A neck lift (cervicoplasty or platysmaplasty) is a surgical procedure that corrects the most common visible signs of neck aging: loose, crepey skin (‘turkey wattle’), visible platysmal bands (vertical cords), submental (under-chin) fullness, and loss of the neck-jaw angle. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta performs neck lifts as standalone procedures and in combination with facelift surgery for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

What Does a Neck Lift Correct?

• Loose or sagging neck skin — crepey texture and excess skin
• Platysmal banding — vertical cords or ridges in the neck from the platysma muscle
• Submental fat — fullness under the chin creating a double chin appearance
• Blunted cervicomental angle — loss of the sharp angle between the neck and jaw
• Jowling — skin hanging below the jawline (often treated simultaneously with facelift)

Neck Lift Procedure

Cervicoplasty (Skin Removal)

Removes excess skin through incisions hidden behind the ears and under the chin. Appropriate when skin laxity is the primary concern.

Platysmaplasty (Muscle Repair)

The platysma muscle edges are tightened and sutured together at the midline (platysmaplasty), correcting platysmal banding and restoring a defined neck contour. Most comprehensive neck rejuvenation cases require platysmaplasty.

Submental Liposuction

Often combined with the neck lift to remove excess submental fat and sharpen the neck-jaw angle. The same submental incision used for the neck lift provides access for liposuction.

Recovery

Neck lift recovery involves swelling, bruising, and tightness for 2-3 weeks. Most patients return to work in 10-14 days. Strenuous activity is restricted for 4-6 weeks. Final results are visible at 3-6 months as all swelling resolves. Results typically last 7-12 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a neck lift different from a facelift?

A: A neck lift focuses on the neck and submental area; a facelift addresses the face, jowls, and lower face as well. Many patients benefit from both procedures performed simultaneously — this is the most common and comprehensive approach to lower face and neck rejuvenation at MetroDerm.

Q: How long does a neck lift last?

A: Neck lift results typically last 7-12 years. Genetics, weight fluctuations, and sun exposure influence longevity. Non-surgical maintenance with Botox (for platysmal bands), Morpheus8, or Kybella can extend the appearance of results.

Q: Can non-surgical treatments replace a neck lift?

A: Non-surgical options like Botox (for platysmal bands), Kybella (for submental fat), and FaceTite (for mild-moderate skin tightening) are effective for early neck laxity. However, for significant skin laxity, platysmal banding, or large submental fat deposits, surgical neck lift delivers results that non-surgical treatments cannot match.

Procedures & Treatments