Schedule Consultation (858) 381-4801

Neck Lift in San Diego, CA

Neck Lift

Reception team at facial plastic surgery office.

Sleek and Stunning

Why Choose SKY Facial Plastic Surgery for a Neck Lift?

A neck lift smooths and sculpts away visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline, such as sagging neck skin, excess fat, and loss of definition. At SKY Facial Plastic Surgery, Sirius K. Yoo, M.D., specializes in advanced neck lift techniques to restore a youthful, refined appearance. With double board certification and a focus solely on face and neck procedures, Dr. Yoo combines unparalleled expertise with an artist’s touch to deliver results that enhance your natural beauty. Begin your journey to a more confident and rejuvenated look by scheduling a consultation with our team today.

Background Image

Neck Lift at a Glance

  • Purpose: Improves visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline, including sagging skin and excess fat.
  • Procedure Time: Typically 2–3 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgical procedure.
  • Downtime: Recovery lasts 1–2 weeks, with most patients returning to normal activities soon after.
  • Results: Long-lasting improvement in neck contour and definition.
Background Image

Sculpted Confidence

What is a neck lift?

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging neck skin, excess fat, and visible signs of aging in the neck area.

This treatment sculpts the jawline and neck, restoring a more youthful contour. Options include traditional surgical techniques and, in some cases, complementary nonsurgical treatments to enhance skin quality. The procedure is highly customizable to meet your specific concerns and aesthetic goals.

Liposuction may also be incorporated into a neck lift to address stubborn fat under the chin or in the neck. Neck liposuction is a cosmetic procedure to reduce the amount of fatty tissue in the neck and submental areas. This produces a more defined and sculpted jaw line from all angles. This is usually performed under local anesthesia sometimes with a little oral sedation. Neck liposuction can also be combined with subdermal laser skin tightening for maximal results (see laser-assisted liposuction for more information).

Smiling woman receiving facial treatment in clinic.

Combining Procedures: Neck Lift and Facelift

Many patients find that combining a neck lift with a facelift provides the most comprehensive and harmonious rejuvenation. While a neck lift focuses on refining the contours of the neck and jawline, a facelift addresses sagging skin, wrinkles, and volume loss in the mid and lower face. Together, these procedures create a seamless transformation, ensuring that the face and neck appear naturally balanced and youthful. By addressing both areas simultaneously, patients often achieve more dramatic and long-lasting results with a single recovery period. This combination approach allows Dr. Yoo to tailor the treatment to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, delivering a refreshed appearance that feels entirely you.

Trusted Expertise. Inspired Results.

What is the neck lift procedure like?

During the procedure, Dr. Yoo creates discreet incisions, typically around the ears and beneath the chin, to access the underlying muscles and tissues.

Excess fat cells are removed, and sagging skin is carefully tightened to achieve a smooth and defined neck contour. The incisions are meticulously closed to ensure minimal scarring. Depending on the patient’s needs, the procedure may also include muscle tightening or liposuction to address stubborn fat deposits.

Smiling woman receiving treatment, wearing sweater and jewelry.

Elevate Your Elegance

What conditions does a neck lift address?

Neck lift surgery can treat several visible signs of aging in the jawline, including sagging skin, vertical neck bands, fat deposits, and the dreaded “turkey wattle” or double chin. It can also help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, creating a more youthful appearance. This procedure is especially effective for addressing age-related changes caused by heredity, gravity, and environmental factors, restoring balance between the neck and the upper face.

Lift Away the Years

Is a neck lift right for me?

If you are concerned about sagging skin, a double chin, or loss of definition in the neck and jawline, neck lift surgery could provide the solution you are looking for.

Candidates for plastic surgery should be in good general health, not smoke, and maintain realistic expectations about their results. While nonsurgical treatments can improve mild concerns, a surgical neck lift is the best option for more significant rejuvenation. Dr. Yoo will work closely with you to evaluate your needs and determine the appropriate approach based on your goals and anatomy.

Surgeon wearing gloves and surgical mask in operation.

Attentive Care at Every Step

Neck Lift Recovery

After your neck lift, you’ll need to keep your head elevated and follow specific aftercare instructions to minimize swelling and support healing.

Most patients experience mild discomfort and swelling, which subside within the first week. Stitches are usually removed after 7–10 days, and you can resume most daily activities within two weeks. To ensure optimal results, avoid strenuous activity and direct sun exposure during your recovery.

Background Image

Effortless Contours, Lasting Results

Neck Lift Results

A neck lift provides long-lasting results, enhancing the jawline and neck to reveal a smoother, more youthful contour.

Patients often report a significant boost in self confidence and satisfaction with their rejuvenated appearance. While the aging process continues naturally, the improvements from a neck lift can last for many years, especially when combined with proper skin care and a healthy lifestyle.

Smiling man in purple scrubs, medical environment.

Neck Lift Frequently Asked Questions

The results of neck lift surgery are long-lasting, often maintaining their effects for 10–15 years with proper care.

Yes, a neck lift is often performed alongside a facelift or nonsurgical treatments like laser skin resurfacing for more comprehensive rejuvenation.

Dr. Yoo places incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring, and scars typically fade over time with proper care.

For the right patient, nonsurgical treatments can rejuvenate the neck area. For example, the injectable Kybella can break down fat cells under the jawline for a sleeker appearance. However, these treatments cannot achieve the dramatic, lasting results of neck lift surgery.

Most patients return to work within 10–14 days, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Discomfort following a neck lift is typically mild and well-managed with prescribed medications during recovery.

While a neck lift cannot stop aging, it can significantly improve visible signs and slow the appearance of future changes.

Dr. Yoo will provide detailed instructions, including avoiding certain medications and stopping smoking before surgery.

Yes, a neck lift can effectively remove excess fat and tighten skin under the chin for a more defined profile.

As with any surgical procedure, the neck lift procedure comes with certain risks, including infection, scarring, or changes in skin sensation. Dr. Yoo’s expertise minimizes these risks, ensuring a safe and satisfying outcome.