Neck lift surgery

What is neck lift surgery?

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy or platysmaplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to tighten loose skin, smooth wrinkles and redefine the jawline.

The neck is often one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. As you age, collagen production slows, skin loses elasticity and the neck muscles (platysma) can weaken. Lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, smoking and weight changes can also play a part in this process.

A neck lift can help improve:

• Sagging or loose skin (“turkey neck”).
• Prominent vertical neck bands.
• Excess fat under the chin.
• Softened or poorly defined jawline.

For many people, these changes affect confidence. No matter your gender, if you are concerned about sagging skin, neck wrinkles or loss of definition, a neck lift can offer a long-lasting way to restore a smoother, firmer and more youthful neck profile.

The different types of neck lift surgery

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate technique based on your skin quality, anatomy and cosmetic goals.

Cervicoplasty (skin-only neck lift)

Removes excess loose skin to create a smoother, tighter appearance.

Platysmaplasty

Tightens the underlying neck muscles to reduce visible neck bands and contour the neck and jawline.

Combined neck lift

A combination of cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty for a more detailed transformation.

What are the alternatives to neck lift surgery?

Non-surgical options may help with mild to moderate concerns, including:

• Dermal fillers – to improve jawline contour.
• Nefertiti neck lift – uses anti-wrinkle injections to relax the neck muscle.
• Ultherapy® – ultrasound-based skin tightening.

These treatments can offer subtle improvements but do not achieve the same long-lasting results as surgical neck lift procedures.

Neck lift vs facelift: What’s the difference?

A neck lift focuses on tightening the skin and muscles of the neck and under chin area. A facelift addresses sagging in the cheeks, jowls (below the jawline) and mid-face. Many patients may choose to combine both procedures for a more balanced outer appearance.

How can I prepare for neck lift surgery?

To support a safe procedure and smooth recovery, your consultant/surgeon may advise you to:

• Stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery.
• Avoid certain medications (your surgeon will guide you).
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight.
• Arrange time off work and support at home for the first few days.

What happens during neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes between 1 and 3 hours depending on the technique.

Your surgeon may:

• Make small incisions around the ears and/or under the chin.
• Tighten the neck muscles to reduce banding through these small incisions.
• Remove excess skin for a smoother, defined look.
• Use liposuction to remove stubborn fat under the chin.

Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may need to spend one night in hospital.

How long does it take to recover from neck lift surgery?

It’s normal to experience swelling, numbness, bruising and a feeling of tightness for the first few days. These symptoms will gradually improve over time.

During recovery:

• Sleep upright for the first few nights to reduce swelling.
• Take prescribed pain relief as needed.
• Avoid strenuous activity for around 3 weeks.
• Attend your follow-up appointment (stitches are usually removed after 7–10 days).

Depending on the type of job you do and the extent of your surgery, your surgeon will be able to advise you on how soon you can return to work.

What are the risks and complications of neck lift surgery?

All surgical procedures carry some risks. Your consultant will discuss these with you in detail.

General complications of any operation:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection in a surgical wound
• Blood clots

Specific complications of neck lift surgery:

• Bruising and swelling
• Scarring
• Numbness or tingling
• Feeling of tightness or pulling
• Nerve damage

Nuffield Health consultants follow strict safety protocols to minimise these risks.

How much does neck lift surgery cost at Nuffield Health?

For pricing information, please contact your local hospital. The hospital or your healthcare team will give you a fixed all-inclusive price for the treatment following your initial consultation.