As we age or face sun exposure, the skin on the neck can develop creases, wrinkles, and looseness—commonly appearing as vertical banding. These changes can make you look older than you feel. At American Medical Center, neck lift surgery is performed to restore a smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking neck.
Also known as a lower rhytidectomy, a neck lift removes excess skin and fat from the neck and under the chin, resulting in a more defined and rejuvenated contour.
Am I a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
Various factors such as aging, stress, gravity, environment, and genetics can contribute to sagging or wrinkled neck skin. You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if:
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You have loose skin or fat deposits under the chin or along the neck
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You are experiencing jowls or poor definition of the jawline
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You are in good health and have realistic expectations
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You wish to improve abnormal neck contours or eliminate excess fat
Neck lifts are often performed in combination with facelift procedures for a more complete facial transformation.
How Is a Neck Lift Performed?
At American Medical Center, neck lift surgery is conducted under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The procedure usually takes two to three hours, depending on the complexity and whether it’s combined with a facelift.
Small incisions are made behind the ears and beneath the chin. Through these, the surgeon removes excess fat and skin and tightens the underlying muscles to reshape the neck.
For patients with a double chin, neck liposuction may be added to the procedure.
Recovery After Neck Lift Surgery
Swelling and bruising around the neck are common and may last for up to two weeks. You may also feel numbness, tightness, or a burning sensation, which typically improves over time. Pain relief medications will be provided as needed.
Stitches are usually removed within 5 to 10 days, although full scar fading will take longer. Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks but should avoid strenuous activity, including swimming, for at least a month.
Following a healthy lifestyle, eating well, and resting adequately can accelerate healing.
Expected Results
You will begin to notice results immediately after surgery, with improvements continuing as swelling and bruising resolve. Once healing is complete, your neck will look firmer, smoother, and significantly more youthful.