A neck lift, also known as a platysmaplasty or lower rhytidectomy, restores youthful contours to the jawline and neck area to reverse the signs of aging. This procedure can include the removal of excess fat or skin as well as the tightening of muscles in the neck, all of which contribute to a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance. Neck lifts are often done in tandem with facelifts as a full facial rejuvenation package, although they can be done on their own as well.
What exactly is a neck lift and what does this type of procedure entail? Are there patients better suited for neck lifts than others? To answer these burning questions and more, we reached out to ASPS Member Surgeons Steve Laverson, MD, FACS, and Rachel Mason, MD. Keep reading to discover their insights around the field of neck lifts and advice to maximize your results should you decide to pursue this procedure.
The ins and outs of a neck lift
In general, a neck lift can be thought of as an effective method of enhancing the appearance of an aging neck.
"A neck lift is a treatment for improving or correcting specific physical features and dimensions of the neck that may appear aged or aesthetically undesirable," said Dr. Laverson. "Fullness of the neck from disproportionate fat, ill-defined jaw line, loose or wrinkled skin and vertical bands beneath the chin sagging down toward the chest are changes that stimulate patients to consider neck lift for a more youthful appearance."
In fact, neck lifts are considered to be the most effective method of rejuvenating the appearance of the neck in both men and women who are aging.
"This is because it allows us to correct the underlying issues," said Dr. Mason. "We can address the deep structures of the neck by removing excess fat and glands that tend to protrude with age if necessary, and by tightening up the muscle fibers that lead to neck bands. We also improve the appearance of the skin by lifting the skin off the underlying muscle to erase the visible 'necklace' wrinkles and remove extra skin that sags as we age."
Neck lift techniques can vary greatly among different surgeons, although some of the basics are fairly consistent in all procedures.
"Most surgeons will lift up the neck skin, tighten the underlying platysma muscle and then remove the extra skin," said Dr. Mason.
True surgical techniques tend to remain popular among surgeons, but there are other options that tend to phase in and out based on results.
"Short scar techniques and placing too much tension on the skin seem to be phasing out," said Dr. Mason.
Additionally, the demand for newer techniques that promise to be less invasive continues, but surgeons keep coming back to the tried-and-true surgical method for the best results.
"Many of the noninvasive treatments seem to rise and fall in popularity over the years," said Dr. Laverson. "Excitement and anticipation are often generated for new devices and procedures. Only after results are observed over a period of time may that excitement wane if the quality and longevity of outcomes fall short of hopes and expectations."
While the genders and ages of patients who typically pursue neck lifts vary, there are some commonalities found between them.
"Typically, the patients I see for neck lifts are women in their 50s and 60s who are bothered by the 'hanging' appearance of their neck or their neck bands," said Dr. Mason. "Younger women in their 30s and 40s may start to notice signs of aging in their neck earlier than other areas as well."
Combining a neck lift with other procedures
A neck lift can be done as a standalone procedure but is often paired with a facelift for a more balanced outcome.
"Because the face and neck age together, we often combine other anti-aging procedures with neck lifts for natural appearing results," said Dr. Laverson.
Since the surgeon is already operating in the face region, the procedures can be more easily combined while minimizing the number of incisions and offering the patient less downtime than if they did the procedures separately.
"This allows for a more harmonious look with the neck and face both appearing the same age, instead of making only one area appear more youthful while the other remains aged," said Dr. Mason. "The same incision may be used for both procedures, so it makes most sense to do them at the same time. If the patient needs a brow lift, it is best done at this time as well."
Neck lifts also work well with a variety of other facial aesthetic procedures.
"A neck lift for younger patients with inherited fat in the neck who wants a more trim, defined jaw line may be combined with alloplastic chin augmentation using a chin implant," said Dr. Laverson.
In reality, most aesthetic facial procedures are a good option for pairing with a neck lift.
"Eyelid surgeries are often done at the same time to improve the overall facial appearance," said Dr. Mason. "Facial fat grafting, botulinum toxin injections and some mild resurfacing may also be done at the same time."
The future of neck lift procedures
There is no doubt that this procedure will continue to remain a favorite for women and men of all ages. With continued popularity comes continual advancements in techniques and recovery to maximize the results and experience of the patients pursuing them.
"There is a definite trend towards 'deep plane' techniques in the neck," said Dr. Mason. "This means that we are starting to address the deep structures in the neck such as the deep fat behind the muscle, the submandibular salivary glands that tend to enlarge or protrude with age and the digastric muscles in the neck. These tend to make the neck appear fuller, and reducing them gives the neck a much slimmer, more defined, youthful appearance."
Getting the most from your neck lift
If you are a patient interested in pursuing a neck lift, there are certain steps that you can take both before and after your procedure to set yourself up for success. Here is what our experts would recommend.
Opt for a board-certified plastic surgeon
While it may seem like an obvious first step with any plastic surgery, finding a board-certified surgeon who is an ASPS member is crucial to setting yourself up for success.
PlasticSurgery.org is a good start to find a surgeon who has demonstrated the highest standards for his or her own performance by embracing certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery," said Dr. Laverson.
Try to stay local
In addition to ensuring that your surgeon is properly certified, always try to find a surgeon that is in your region or where you will be spending your time during recovery.
"In general, a surgeon near your home is advised," said Dr. Laverson. "Follow-up after neck lift during the months of healing offers valuable support. Follow up is difficult or absent for traveling patients. The neck often feels tight and stiff after a neck lift."
Look for a surgeon who will advocate for you
Your surgeon isn't just the individual who will perform your neck lift – they'll be involved in the process from start to finish. From preparation to recovery, your surgeon will play a key role in each step of the process.
"Feeling that your surgeon is your advocate and that your communications are comfortable is another doctor selection criteria," said Dr. Laverson.
Set yourself up for success
Many patients tend to be so focused on the procedures themselves and what comes afterward that they neglect to prepare ahead of time. Yet, preparation can make a significant difference in both your recovery and your results.
"To prepare for the procedure, it is important to be in good health overall, particularly with well-controlled blood pressure," said Dr. Mason. "It is also important to take care of your skin and use a topical retinoid to improve skin healing and overall appearance."
Keep an eye on bruising and swelling
With neck lifts, you often don't need to worry about experiencing post-surgery pain. If anything, the pain will be minimal, but other side effects, such as swelling and bruising, can be common following a neck lift.
"Arnica montana and lymphatic massages can help with postoperative bruising and swelling," said Dr. Mason.
Take the time needed to recover
Many patients may find that they are tempted to get right back into their typical day-to-day life immediately after a neck lift since the pain is often minimal. However, it's incredibly important that you take the time to properly rest and recover following a neck lift, so you get the best results.
"Return to safe driving, sports and other activities should be measured to avoid damaging the result, but without excessive delay to minimize the duration of immobility," said Dr. Laverson.
Turning back the clock with a neck lift
For women and men who are concerned with the signs of aging, the neck lift is one of the best options for a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. It can restore the contours of the jawline and remove the loose, hanging skin from the neck that many are self-conscious about.
Often paired with facelifts and other aesthetic facial procedures, neck lifts are an amazingly effective treatment option for any patient who is looking for a more youthful appearance. Whether you choose to do it as a standalone procedure or pair it with another surgery, you can take years off your appearance and restore your confidence with a neck lift.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
