If you’ve noticed sagging or loose neck skin, a loss of jawline definition, or the dreaded “turkey neck,” you’re not alone. The neck is often one of the first areas to show signs of aging. Fortunately, neck tightening with a surgical neck lift can help firm the skin, define the chin and jawline, and give your face and neck a more youthful appearance.
Whether your concern is excess fat, muscle banding, or skin laxity, neck lift surgery is a highly effective solution for rejuvenating the neck and enhancing your overall profile.
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline. These can include loss of collagen, wrinkles, saggy neck and prominent platysma muscles.
A surgical neck procedure tightens underlying neck muscles, removes excess skin, and often includes neck liposuction to remove unwanted fat beneath the chin. Your surgeon may also choose to perform a platysmaplasty.
The result is smoother, tighter skin and a better-defined jawline. It’s a tailored procedure, meaning your treatment plan will depend on your anatomy and goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?
You may be an ideal candidate for a neck lift if you have:
- Loose or sagging neck skin
- A double chin or pockets of fat under the chin and neck area
- Excessive muscle banding or neck bands
- Loss of jawline definition
Most patients are in their 40s to 70s, but age isn’t the only factor. What matters more is your general health, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. If your main concern is your neck and jawline, but the rest of your face still looks youthful, a neck lift alone may be the right approach.
Benefits of Neck Lift Surgery
A neck lift can offer both aesthetic and functional benefits, including:
- Smoother, tighter neck skin
- A more defined chin and jawline
- Elimination of the “turkey neck” or double chin
- Long-lasting facial rejuvenation
- Improved appearance in profile and photographs
- A youthful contour without altering your natural facial structure
What to Expect from Your Neck Lift Results
The results of neck lift surgery can be lift-changing, especially when you’ve struggled with sagging skin or a lack of neck definition for years. You can expect a smoother, tighter neck and a more contoured jawline. The appearance of neck bands and excess fat is reduced or eliminated, giving you a younger, refreshed look that still feels natural.
The final outcome depends on your anatomy and the surgical technique used, but most patients enjoy visible improvement in their neck and lower face appearance. Results typically last 10 to 15 years, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle and proper skin care.
The Neck Lift Procedure Overview
Neck lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. Small incisions are usually made behind the ears and under the chin. Through these incisions, your surgeon tightens the underlying neck muscles, removes excess skin, and performs liposuction if needed to sculpt the area.
In some cases, a direct excision of loose neck skin or fat is recommended, especially in patients with very pronounced skin laxity or fullness. The technique will be customized to match your anatomy and goals.
Neck Lift Recovery: What You Should Know
Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to light activities within 7 to 10 days. Here’s what to expect during the healing process:
- Swelling and bruising are common during the first week and begin to subside gradually.
- You may wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support the healing tissues.
- Stitches are usually removed within a week.
- Mild discomfort can be managed with prescription or over-the-counter medication.
- Avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.
Following all operative care instructions provided by Dr. Casso will help ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
Additional Treatments That Complement a Neck Lift
Sometimes, combining neck lift surgery with other treatments can help enhance your final result. Everyone’s facial anatomy is different, and while a neck lift can dramatically improve the appearance of the neck and jawline, it may not be enough on its own to achieve your full facial rejuvenation goals.
Facelift
A facelift is one of the most common procedures paired with a neck lift, especially if you have sagging skin in the mid or lower face. While the neck lift targets excess skin and neck bands below the chin, a facelift addresses deep creases, jowls, and volume loss.
When done together, a face and neck lift offers a more comprehensive transformation and can create smoother harmony between your facial features and neckline.
Eyelid Surgery or Brow Lift
Signs of aging often appear around the eyes before they show up in the neck or lower face. If you have drooping eyelids or sagging brows, pairing eyelid surgery or a brow lift with your neck rejuvenation procedure can lead to a refreshed and balanced appearance.
These cosmetic surgery treatments are frequently performed in the same surgery center session under general anesthesia or IV sedation for convenience and comfort.
Neck Liposuction
If your skin has good elasticity but you’re dealing with fat accumulation under the chin or jawline, neck liposuction alone or in combination with a neck lift can offer excellent results.
This surgical procedure removes stubborn fat deposits with small incisions and minimal downtime. It’s especially effective for patients concerned about a double chin or poorly defined neck and jawline due to fat rather than loose skin.
Skin Resurfacing and Non-Surgical Treatments
After your surgical procedure, Dr. Casso may recommend non-surgical treatments to further enhance skin texture and tone. Laser treatments and chemical peels can reduce the appearance of fine lines, sun damage, or uneven skin. These are often done after you’ve fully healed from surgery and can help maintain your results long-term.
Schedule Your Neck Lift Consultation in Houston
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a smoother neck and more youthful appearance, a neck lift may be the right choice for you. Dr. Casso offers personalized care in the Houston TX area, with decades of experience in facial plastic surgery and a reputation for natural-looking results.
At your consultation, you’ll receive a full evaluation, learn more about the neck lift procedure, and get clear guidance on what to expect in terms of recovery, cost, and outcomes.
Whether you’re dealing with sagging neck skin, a double chin, or an undefined jawline, neck lift surgery can dramatically improve your appearance and boost your confidence. Don’t let the signs of aging in your neck hold you back—reclaim your youthful contour and take control of your look with expert care from a trusted Houston plastic surgeon.
