Plastic Surgery
What Is Neck Lift Surgery?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
A neck lift (lower rhytidectomy or cervicoplasty) is a surgical procedure that tightens the neck muscles and skin, removes excess fat, and defines the jawline and cervicomental angle (the angle between chin and neck). It addresses platysmal banding (visible vertical bands in the neck), excess skin and fat under the chin (turkey neck or double chin), and overall neck laxity. A neck lift is frequently performed as part of a comprehensive facelift.
Surgical techniques
Platysmaplasty: the platysma muscles in the neck are tightened and sutured together at the midline through a small incision under the chin. Cervicoplasty: excess neck skin is removed through incisions behind the ears. Liposuction: excess fat under the chin (submental fat) is removed through the small chin incision. These techniques are typically combined for comprehensive neck rejuvenation.
Standalone neck lift vs. combined with facelift
A standalone neck lift is appropriate for patients who have good facial skin quality with primary concerns in the neck and jawline. Most surgeons recommend combining a neck lift with facelift surgery for patients with significant jowling and facial laxity, as the two procedures address the transition zone between face and neck.
Non-surgical alternatives
For patients with mild neck laxity and excess fat, non-surgical options include Kybella (for submental fat), Morpheus8 (for skin tightening), and Ultherapy. These produce more limited results than surgical neck lift and are best for early-stage concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does neck lift recovery take?
Most patients experience significant swelling and bruising for 1-2 weeks. Social downtime is typically 2-3 weeks. Residual swelling and firmness can persist for 2-3 months.
Can a neck lift be performed under local anesthesia?
More limited neck procedures can sometimes be performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Comprehensive neck lift with platysmaplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation.
How long does a neck lift last?
A neck lift typically lasts 5-10 years, depending on technique and the patient's aging process. A deep plane facelift with neck component tends to produce more durable results.
What is the difference between a neck lift and a lower facelift?
A lower facelift addresses jowling and the lower face in addition to the neck. A neck lift focuses specifically on the neck and under-chin area. The two are frequently performed together for comprehensive lower face and neck rejuvenation.
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