The neck is often one of the first areas to show visible signs of aging. Loose skin, muscle banding, and excess fat under the chin can create an older or heavier appearance, even when the face still looks youthful. Neck lift surgery is designed to restore definition and create a smoother, more contoured neckline. Understanding what a neck lift treats and what recovery involves helps patients decide if this procedure is right for them. Dr. Eric Yavrouian provides neck lift surgery to patients in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Greater Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding communities.
What a Neck Lift Treats
A neck lift focuses specifically on rejuvenating the area from the jawline to the collarbone. It addresses aging changes that cannot be corrected with skincare or non-surgical treatments alone.
A neck lift may improve:
• Loose or sagging neck skin
• Vertical neck bands caused by muscle separation
• Excess fat under the chin
• Loss of jawline definition
• Crepey or wrinkled neck skin
The goal is to create a firmer, smoother neck that blends naturally with the lower face.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift
Neck lift surgery is ideal for patients who are bothered by neck aging but have relatively good facial skin tone and minimal jowling. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about surgical results.
Patients with more advanced facial aging may benefit from combining a neck lift with a facelift to achieve balanced results.
How Neck Lift Surgery Is Performed
Neck lift techniques vary depending on anatomy and concerns. Surgery may involve removing excess skin, tightening the underlying neck muscles, and contouring fat deposits. Incisions are carefully placed behind the ears and sometimes under the chin to keep scars discreet.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation.
Recovery Expectations After a Neck Lift
Recovery occurs gradually over several weeks.
First Week
Swelling, bruising, and tightness are common. Patients are advised to rest, keep the head elevated, and wear any recommended compression garment.
Weeks Two to Three
Swelling and bruising continue to improve. Many patients return to work and light activities during this time, depending on comfort level.
Weeks Four to Six
Residual swelling decreases further. Neck contours become more defined, and patients resume most normal activities with surgeon approval.
Long-Term Healing
Final results continue to refine over several months as tissues fully settle.
Results and Longevity
Neck lift results are long lasting and can dramatically improve profile and jawline definition. While the aging process continues, patients often look refreshed for many years following surgery.
For more information about treatments and procedures by Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Eric J. Yavrouian, serving patients in and around Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank and the Greater Los Angeles, CA area call 818-241-2150 or click here to contact him for a consultation.
