Neck Lift Surgery

What Is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift (lower rhytidectomy) is a surgical procedure that addresses loose skin, excess fat and weakened muscles in the area beneath the chin and along the jawline. The surgery tightens the underlying platysma muscle, removes or repositions fat deposits and excises redundant skin to create more youthful and defined neck contours.

Unlike nonsurgical treatments that offer temporary improvement, a neck lift provides long-lasting correction of moderate to severe neck laxity. 

Neck Lift Techniques

Dr. Terrasse evaluates each patient’s anatomy and goals to determine the most effective surgical approach. Depending on your specific concerns, your neck lift may include one or more of the following techniques.

Cervicoplasty

This plastic surgery technique focuses on removing excess skin from the neck. Dr. Terrasse makes incisions behind the ears and sometimes beneath the chin, allowing him to trim away redundant tissue and redrape the remaining skin for a smoother contour.

Platysmaplasty

When muscle banding is a primary concern, platysmaplasty addresses the platysma muscle directly. Through a small incision beneath the chin, Dr. Terrasse can tighten, suture or partially remove portions of this muscle to eliminate vertical bands and create a firmer foundation.

Submental Liposuction

For patients whose primary issue is a double chin rather than significant skin laxity, liposuction beneath the chin may be performed alone or in combination with other neck lift techniques. This removes localized fat deposits and helps reveal the natural contour of the neck.

Natural Results Without Looking “Done”

Dr. Anthony Terrasse, a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized as a “Top Doctor” in plastic surgery by Newsweek, takes an individualized approach to neck rejuvenation. His philosophy emphasizes natural-looking outcomes that refresh and restore without creating an artificial or “windblown” appearance.

With more than 30 years of experience serving patients on Chicago’s North Shore, Dr. Terrasse combines technical precision with an artist’s eye for balance and proportion. He listens carefully to your concerns, answers your questions thoroughly and develops a surgical plan designed to achieve results that look like a younger version of you.

Combining a Neck Lift With Other Procedures

The neck doesn’t age in isolation. Many patients find that addressing the neck alone creates a visual mismatch between the refreshed lower profile and the unchanged midface or upper face. For this reason, Dr. Terrasse frequently performs neck lifts in combination with complementary procedures to create harmonious results.

A facelift combined with a neck lift delivers comprehensive restoration of youthful lower face and neck contours. This combination addresses jowls, nasolabial folds and marionette lines while simultaneously tightening the neck. For patients concerned about the upper face, an eyelid lift or brow lift can further enhance your refreshed appearance.

Dr. Terrasse may also recommend nonsurgical treatments like Botox or dermal fillers to address fine lines and volume loss.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery?

The best candidates for neck lift surgery are adults in good overall health with realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. You may be a good candidate if you experience noticeable loose skin or sagging beneath the chin, visible platysmal bands when you tense your neck, a double chin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, or loss of definition along the jawline. Having good skin elasticity improves results, though patients with moderate skin laxity can still achieve excellent outcomes. 

Those considering a neck lift should maintain a stable weight, as significant fluctuations after surgery can compromise results. Lower rhytidectomy patients should also be non-smokers or willing to quit several weeks before and after surgery.

During your consultation, Dr. Terrasse will evaluate your medical history, neck anatomy, skin quality, facial proportions and aesthetic goals to determine whether a neck lift is the right choice for you.

How to Prepare for Neck Lift Surgery

Proper preparation in the weeks leading up to surgery sets the stage for a smoother procedure and recovery. Dr. Terrasse will provide detailed instructions based on your health history and the specifics of your procedure.

You will need to discontinue blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and fish oil at least two weeks before neck lift surgery. Smoking impairs healing and increases complication risk, so you must stop smoking several weeks before your procedure and throughout recovery. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours.

Stock your recovery space with comfortable pillows to keep your head elevated, easy-to-prepare meals and any prescribed medications filled in advance.

What to Expect During Neck Lift Surgery

A neck lift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia or IV sedation with local anesthesia. The surgery usually takes two to four hours, depending on the extent of correction needed.

Dr. Terrasse begins by making incisions in discreet locations, typically along the front and behind the ears and sometimes beneath the chin. Incisions are strategically positioned within natural creases and behind the ears so that any resulting scars remain well concealed. Through these incisions, he tightens the underlying platysma muscle, removes or repositions excess fat and trims redundant skin. The remaining neck skin is redraped, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures placed to minimize visible scarring.

What Is Neck Lift Recovery Like? 

Most patients take one to two weeks off from work and social gatherings to allow for initial healing. During the first few days, you will experience swelling and bruising. Dr. Terrasse may place a small drain to prevent fluid accumulation, and you will wear a supportive compression garment to minimize swelling.

Keep your head elevated while sleeping and resting for the first week or two. Most patients feel comfortable returning to light activities within 10 to 14 days. Avoid strenuous exercise, lifting heavy objects or children, and bending over for at least three weeks. 

Swelling gradually subsides over several weeks, with the majority resolving within the first month. Final results become apparent as tissues settle into their new position over three to six months.

What Results Can I Expect From a Neck Lift?

A successful neck lift produces a more defined jawline, smoother neck contour and elimination of the “turkey wattle” appearance. Results are long-lasting because the structural changes made during surgery are permanent. However, you will continue to age naturally after your procedure. Maintaining a stable weight, protecting your skin from sun damage and following a healthy lifestyle will help preserve your results for many years.