A neck lift (cervicoplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the cervical region, redefining the neck and jawline profile. The neck is one of the first areas to show signs of aging: the skin loses elasticity, a "double chin" forms, and platysmal bands — the vertical muscle bands that become visible over time — may appear. This procedure restores a toned, defined, and youthful neck appearance, significantly improving the overall profile harmony.
A neck lift is recommended for patients who present cervical region concerns related to aging or constitutional factors: • Double chin resistant to diet and exercise, caused by submental fat accumulation • Loose and sagging neck skin, with folds and a "turkey neck" appearance • Visible platysmal bands, which create unsightly vertical cords on the neck • Loss of the cervicomental angle definition (the angle between chin and neck) • Excess adipose tissue in the submental and lateral neck regions
The procedure is not recommended in the following cases: • Uncontrolled thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can affect healing and tissue metabolism • Active smoking, as tobacco severely compromises skin vascularization and increases the risk of flap necrosis and delayed healing • Uncontrolled coagulation disorders • Unrealistic expectations regarding achievable results • Significant overweight, as subsequent weight loss could undermine the results
The procedure takes 2-3 hours depending on the complexity and techniques employed. It may involve submental liposuction, repositioning of the platysma muscle (platysmaplasty), and removal of excess skin. Recovery requires 10-14 days, during which an elastic compression bandage is worn to reduce swelling and promote tissue adherence in the new position. Bruising and swelling are normal in the first week and gradually resolve. Sutures are removed between the seventh and tenth day.
Yes, a neck lift is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with deep sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure. Incisions are strategically placed behind the ears and, when necessary, under the chin, in barely visible areas. Through these incisions, the surgeon accesses the deep tissues, reshapes the platysma muscle, removes excess fat, and redistributes the skin to achieve a defined and natural cervical profile.
Initial results are visible after the compression bandage is removed, although residual swelling and bruising may partially mask the improvement in the first weeks. Final results are appreciated after 2-3 months, when swelling has completely resolved, tissues have stabilized, and scars have matured. The neck appears more defined, toned, and youthful, with a markedly improved profile.
Yes, a neck lift is frequently performed in combination with a facelift to achieve an overall harmonious and cohesive result. Treating the face without addressing the neck, or vice versa, can create an aesthetic discrepancy between the two areas. Combining both procedures allows for complete rejuvenation of the lower third of the face and neck, with a more natural and balanced result. Submental liposuction or cheek fat grafting can also be added to further refine the outcome.
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