Neck lift surgery is performed to address skin issues in the neck area. Conditions such as sagging of the neck, formation of a double chin, loss of jawline definition, and the appearance of lines on the neck can make a person look older and heavier than they are. Deformities in the neck area also negatively affect the overall appearance of the face. With neck lift surgery, it is possible to achieve a smooth, youthful, and tight neck, as well as a well-defined effect on the face.

What Is Neck Lift Surgery?

The neck area extends from under the chin to the décolletage. Surgical procedures performed to correct advanced deformities such as significant wrinkles, lines, and sagging in the neck area are referred to as neck lift surgery.

boyun-germe-ameliyatı

The need for neck lift surgery arises primarily due to the effects of aging and environmental factors, leading to a loss of collagen tissues and a decrease in skin quality. This condition, which begins with fine wrinkles, progresses with age into deformities such as lines and sagging. Neck lift surgery addresses advanced skin issues that typically need to be resolved after the age of 50.

Who Is Suitable for Neck Lift Surgery?

Neck lift surgery is performed on individuals who complain about signs of aging in the neck area. As with all aesthetic procedures, candidates must be at least 18 years old, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and free of any health conditions that would contraindicate surgery. Neck lift surgery is generally suitable for individuals over the age of 50 who exhibit advanced skin issues in the neck area.

What Should Be Done Before Neck Lift Surgery?

Individuals dissatisfied with the appearance of their neck should undergo a medical examination, during which the neck area will be assessed, and the degree of deformation will be determined. After selecting the most appropriate method for the individual, any potential risks related to the surgery will be identified. Before the surgery, anticoagulant medications and problematic vitamins should be discontinued. Consumption of herbal teas should also be stopped, and the use of substances such as tobacco and alcohol should be ceased prior to the surgery.

How Is Neck Lift Surgery Performed?

Neck lift surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia. The method of treatment will vary based on the degree and type of sagging. The commonly used techniques for neck lift surgery include:

  • Liposuction with Neck Lift: This method is applied in cases where there is minimal neck sagging, the skin is tight, but there is excessive fat accumulation in the double chin area. The liposuction performed on the neck and double chin area is done under sedation or local anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the fatty area, through which thin cannulas are inserted. Excess fat is vacuumed out of the neck using these cannulas. The liposuction procedure typically lasts about 1 hour. Thanks to liposuction, the neck area, which may appear saggy and overweight due to excess fat, achieves a toned and youthful appearance.

  • Submental Neck Lift Surgery: This procedure is suitable for individuals who do not have overall sagging in the neck area but typically exhibit sagging under the chin. It is performed under local or general anesthesia. An incision is made under the chin to remove excess fat and skin, and the muscles are tightened. After the operation, which lasts 1-2 hours, the area under the chin is contoured, and sagging is eliminated. The individual achieves a smooth and firm appearance in the neck.

  • Full Neck Lift Surgery: This procedure is performed on individuals with advanced sagging throughout the entire neck area, where the jawline has been lost. It is conducted under general anesthesia and may be combined with a facelift if necessary. The incision is made in an area that extends from the front of the ear, under the ear, and continues behind it. If there is excess fat, liposuction is performed. The platysma muscles in the neck are tightened, and excess skin is removed by stretching the neck skin. After the operation, which lasts between 1.5 to 3 hours, the entire neck area achieves a youthful, toned, and smooth appearance.

What Is the Recovery Process Like After Neck Lift Surgery?

After neck lift surgery, the neck area is tightly wrapped with a compression bandage to help shape the skin into its ideal form. If the neck lift is not combined with other surgeries, the individual can be discharged on the same day.

boyun-germe-ameliyatı-

The recovery processes after neck lift surgeries vary based on the specific procedure performed. Following liposuction combined with neck lift, a quick recovery is experienced, and the individual can return to daily activities within 2-3 days. The recovery period for submental neck lift and full neck lift surgeries typically lasts 7-10 days. During this time, swelling and bruising may be observed in the neck area. Stitches are removed one week after the surgery.

Regular use of a compression garment and strict adherence to the doctor’s directives after neck lift surgery are crucial for achieving the desired results in the neck area.

Will There Be Scarring After Neck Lift Surgery?

In cases of neck lift combined with liposuction, the incisions made are minimal, so there will be no visible scars afterward. For the submental neck lift, a scar will remain in the area under the chin. In the case of full neck lift surgery, the incision that extends from the front of the ear to behind the ear may remain noticeable in some individuals. If the incision scar is bothersome, it can be easily addressed with a laser scar removal treatment.

Neck Lift Surgery Prices

The prices for neck lift surgery are determined by various factors, including the method used, materials employed, type of anesthesia, the doctor’s experience, and whether the procedure is combined with other treatments. You can visit our center for an examination to find the most suitable neck lift method and pricing information for you.

Is Neck Lift Surgery Permanent?

boyun-germe-ameliyatı-

Neck lift surgery has a lasting effect of 8-10 years. After this period, signs of aging and gravity may lead to renewed sagging in the neck area. Individuals can choose to undergo surgery again or extend the effects of the neck lift through medical treatments before the end of the durability period.

Can Neck Lift Surgery Be Performed Along with Facelift?

Neck lift and facelift surgeries are often performed together. Combining the two procedures allows for a more natural and successful result, as the face and neck complement each other. Additionally, having both a facelift and neck lift performed simultaneously can facilitate a faster recovery process and be more cost-effective.

How Long Does Neck Lift Surgery Take?

Liposuction combined with neck lift typically takes about 1 hour, while submental neck lift surgery lasts approximately 1-2 hours. Full neck lift surgery generally takes about 1.5-3 hours. If a full neck lift is performed alongside a facelift, the total duration averages between 2-5 hours. The length of the surgery also depends on factors such as the degree of deformity, skin type, and the experience of the doctor.

Why Does the Neck Sag?

With few exceptions, neck sagging is a condition that occurs over time and is common with aging. Gravity and the aging process are the most significant factors contributing to the decrease in skin quality. Other causes of neck sagging include:

  • Rapid Weight Gain and Loss
  • Excessive Sun Exposure
  • Fat Accumulation in the Neck
  • Small Chin or Retrogenia
  • Relaxation of the Platysma Muscles
  • Use of Low-Quality Cosmetic Products

Can Non-Surgical Neck Aesthetics Be Performed?

Non-surgical neck aesthetic procedures can be applied to younger individuals who exhibit early to moderate levels of deformation in the neck area. Various methods such as Botox, mesotherapy, thread lift, Morpheus 8, Thermage FLX, and Ulthera are selected based on factors like the individual’s skin type, age, and degree of neck deformity to effectively address neck tightening issues.

dr.leyla arvas
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS

Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.

This article February 12, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr