Neck Lift

The neck is one area where gravity can begin to take a toll, causing loose skin over time. When the skin and fat begin to sag, it can cause a double chin or “turkey neck.” This can make you look older or heavier than you really feel. Although non-surgical options can be effective, a facial plastic surgery procedure can sometimes be the best option to reshape and lift the tissues in the face and neck.

What is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is a cosmetic surgery that is considered the gold standard in neck contouring. It can be performed alone or with other procedures like a facelift, midface lift, or brow lift. Combination surgeries like a full facelift provide a more complete result. Although non-surgical options like Botox® or radiofrequency skin tightening can be good options for neck rejuvenation, neck lift surgery can be the most rejuvenating and long-term option for sagging skin and excess fatty deposits.

Neck Lift Benefits

The neck is an often-neglected area when it comes to aesthetics, meaning it’s often the first place to show signs of aging. The neck lift can comprehensively get rid of sagging skin for a more defined appearance. However, it can also resuspend the muscles of the neck if they contribute to a sagging appearance. Although non-surgical neck lift treatments might be able to tighten the skin, surgery is most often needed to get rid of visible neck bands and loose muscle tissue.

What Causes the Neck to Sag?

Neck sagging occurs similarly to other types of sagging. It’s the result of the breakdown of collagen and skin quality combined with the effects of gravity. As we age, the neck skin loses collagen, the connective protein that gives it thickness and elasticity during youth. Sun damage can also contribute to this process. This makes the skin more susceptible to gravity. The underlying muscles can also begin to fall from their natural position, contributing to the look. Although good anti-aging products and treatments can help, a neck lift becomes inevitable at a certain point in the aging process.

Before and After Photos

See the results Dr. DiFrancesco can achieve for you in these before and after neck lift photos.

Before & After Photos

Take a look at the results Dr. DiFrancesco can achieve!

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Good Candidates for Neck Lift

The best candidates for a neck lift are those who have excess skin and fat cells underneath the chin and jawline that haven’t responded to a non-surgical neck lift. Often, patients who can benefit from a facelift can also benefit from a neck lift, and vice versa. As such, Dr. DiFrancesco will discuss your best options during a consultation at our Atlanta office. It’s important to be in good health and able to undergo surgery, so you’ll also discuss your health history to avoid potential risks.

Preparing for Neck Lift

Once you and Dr. DiFrancesco decide that a surgical procedure is the best path forward, you’ll be given steps to prepare. These include avoiding blood-thinning medications, smoking, and alcohol. Because the neck lift requires general anesthesia, you’ll need to avoid eating and drinking the night before your procedure. Make sure to also fill any prescriptions ahead of time and ensure you have plenty of pillows and other recovery materials at home. Finally, arrange for transportation to and from your procedure.

Neck Lift Procedure

The neck lift is often performed under general anesthesia. It requires careful, small incisions behind the ears and within the hairline so that Dr. DiFrancesco can access the underlying tissues. The platysma muscle and surrounding tissues are tightened and repositioned, creating more youthful contours. Additionally, excess fat and skin are removed before the incisions are closed. After a brief monitoring period, you can return home with the help of a friend or family member.

Neck Lift Recovery

After a neck lift procedure, you can expect some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. It’s important to follow Dr. DiFrancesco’s aftercare instructions, including avoiding heavy activity and sleeping with your head elevated (to reduce swelling). You can expect to take around one week away from work or social engagements, but most patients return to normal activity levels within two weeks. As you continue to recover, you’ll see your results refine and improve. Most patients see long-term results with a neck lift, and Dr. DiFrancesco can discuss the best ways to maintain your results in the future.

Results of Neck Lift

You’ll be able to see instant results from your neck lift procedure, although swelling can take several weeks to fully subside. The neck lift can create a slimmer, more defined profile as well as get rid of a “turkey neck” and sagging tissues in the neck area. With the right surgical technique and the aesthetic expertise of Dr. DiFrancesco, you can look ten years younger with your neck lift results.

Risks of Neck Lift

As with any surgery, the neck lift comes with risks. These typically include complications like bleeding, infection, bruising, and more. Dr. DiFrancesco will spend significant time discussing the potential complications and how she will mitigate them during your procedure so you can enjoy your desired outcome without worry.

Combination Procedures

The neck lift can be performed on its own, but Dr. DiFrancesco may recommend combining it with other procedures for best results.

Facelift

The facelift is a facial rejuvenation procedure that concerns your appearance from the chin up. It’s often combined with the neck lift to ensure continuity between your face and neck. For example, a facelift performed alone may mean you still have sagging neck skin and vice versa. A facelift and neck lift together is considered the most comprehensive form of facial rejuvenation.

Liposuction

Liposuction may be used during a neck lift to remove stubborn fat under the chin. Liposuction can remove this fat and create a better contour along the chin and neck. If you have a double chin or hanging fat, liposuction is a good option to consider.

Cost of Neck Lift

On average, a neck lift can cost around $5,000, but your final cost will depend on a variety of factors, such as surgical fees, facilities, anesthesia, and any additional procedures. Dr. DiFrancesco will give you a complete cost estimate during your consultation.

What to Expect From a Neck Lift Consultation

During a consultation with Dr. DiFrancesco, you’ll discuss your goals for surgery and your feelings about your current concerns. Dr. DiFrancesco will look at your detailed medical history to determine if surgery is the right option. She’ll describe the details of your procedure and what steps will be taken, as well as give you time to ask questions about what to expect. You’ll be given a detailed cost estimate and discuss your options for payment and financing. Finally, you’ll schedule a pre-surgical appointment where you’ll sign forms, review your preparatory steps, and meet with the surgical team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Schedule a Consultation

The neck lift is an effective option to rejuvenate and refine your neck and chin for a sculpted profile. To begin discussing your surgical facial rejuvenation options, contact our Atlanta office to schedule a consultation with Dr. DiFrancesco. We invite you to call or fill out our online form.