What is a neck lift?
The neck often looks older than the face because its skin is thinner and has fewer oil glands. With age the platysma — the thin muscle that runs from the collarbone up to the jaw — separates in the middle and forms two vertical cords, while fat collects under the chin and the skin loosens. The result is the so-called turkey neck and a soft, undefined jaw line.
A neck lift addresses all three layers. The muscle edges are stitched together (platysmaplasty), fat under the chin is trimmed or suctioned, and loose skin is lifted back towards the ears. Because the neck and lower face are connected, it is frequently combined with a facelift.
Who needs a neck lift?
- Vertical neck bands that tighten when you grimace or talk.
- Loose, crepey neck skin that folds when you look down.
- A blunted jaw–neck angle visible in side-profile photos.
- Fat under the chin that persists despite weight loss.
- Good health and skin that can recover — smoking must stop beforehand.
Younger patients with good skin and only a fullness under the chin may need just jawline liposuction or a double chin treatment rather than a lift.
Neck lift vs liposuction vs non-surgical neck treatment
| Neck lift | Neck / jawline liposuction | Non-surgical | |
| Treats | Bands, loose skin, fat | Fat only | Fine lines, mild laxity |
| Best for | 40s onward with laxity | Good skin, full chin | Early crepey skin |
| Incisions | Under chin + behind ears | Tiny entry points | None |
| Downtime | 10–14 days | 5–7 days | 0–2 days |
| Longevity | Many years | Long-lasting fat reduction | Months to a year |
How is neck lift surgery performed?
Before & after
Before
After
See more neck and lower-face results in our before & after gallery.
What is neck lift recovery like?
| Day 1–3 | Compression garment worn; tightness when turning the head; sleep with the head raised. |
|---|---|
| Day 7–10 | Stitches removed; scarves or high collars hide any remaining bruising. |
| Week 2–3 | Most patients fly home and return to desk work. |
| Month 3–6 | Firmness under the chin softens and the neck contour settles fully. |
“Most people judge their age by the side profile. Fixing the neck is often what makes the face look finished.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of a neck lift?
Possible risks include haematoma, temporary numbness of the neck skin, firmness or small irregularities under the chin, visible scars behind the ears and, rarely, temporary weakness of the nerve that controls the lower lip. Removing too much fat can leave hollows, so we remove it conservatively. A neck lift does not stop the neck from ageing, but it resets it to an earlier point.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a neck lift last?
Results usually last many years, although the skin continues to age slowly.
Where are the neck lift scars?
A short scar sits in the crease under the chin and the others run behind the ears into the hairline.
Can I have a neck lift without a facelift?
Yes, if the jowls and cheeks are still in good position. If they are not, a combined lift gives a more balanced result.
Will the neck bands come back?
Platysmaplasty markedly reduces bands; some patients see mild return years later, which can be softened with botox.
How long should I stay in Korea?
We suggest 10–14 days so stitches can be removed and Dr. Lee can check healing.
Is a neck lift painful?
Most patients feel tightness and stiffness rather than sharp pain, eased with prescribed medication.