Neck lift (plastic surgery)

A neck lift is a procedure designed to tighten the neck. With ageing, the transition between the chin and the neck can become less defined due to excess skin and sagging fatty tissue. A neck lift can help restore this contour.

When is a neck lift an option?

A neck lift may be considered if you experience:

  • A less defined angle between the chin and neck
  • Excess skin on the neck
  • Sagging fatty tissue in the neck

How does treatment work?

There are several ways to correct the neck area:

  • Liposuction of the neck: when excess fat is mainly responsible for the loss of contour.
  • Neck lift: the skin and underlying tissue are tightened. The scar is placed behind the ear and is kept as discreet as possible.
  • Correction of the platysma muscle: visible or bothersome neck bands can be releasesd during surgery, making the neck appear smoother again.
  • Muscle relaxant (botulinum toxin): may offer temporary improvement at an early stage, but it does not replace surgical correction.

During the consultation, your surgeon will discuss the different options and advise which approach or combination is most suitable for you. 

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications such as bleeding, infection or wound problems. After a neck lift, possible points of attention include:

  • Bleeding or haematoma, especially in people with high blood pressure
  • Infection or wound healing problems
  • Temporary or sometimes permanent changes in sensation in the neck or in front of the ear
  • Temporary loss of function of a branch of the facial nerve (rare)

Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail during the consultation.

Recovery and aftercare

After the procedure, you will receive appropriate pain relief to ensure a comfortable recovery. Bruising and some swelling of the neck are very common in the first few days and will gradually subside.