What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to restore definition and youthfulness to the neck and jawline. Medically referred to as cervicoplasty (removal of excess skin) and platysmaplasty (tightening of the neck muscles), the procedure targets common signs of aging such as sagging skin, double chin, muscle banding, and blunting of the jawline contour.
These changes often appear earlier or more dramatically in the neck than in other facial areas. A neck lift aims to correct these concerns, creating a smoother and firmer neck with better angles and definition.
Surgical Techniques
Traditional (Full) Neck Lift
A full neck lift typically includes:
- Skin removal to address laxity
- Platysma muscle tightening (often using a corset-like technique)
- Submental liposuction to remove fat under the chin
- Deep tissue adjustment, when needed, to reposition fat or glands
This procedure often uses incisions behind the ears and under the chin. It is frequently performed in combination with a lower facelift to rejuvenate both the neck and the lower third of the face.
Deep Plane Neck Lift
A deep plane neck lift is a more advanced technique that goes beneath the platysma muscle to reposition and sculpt the deeper anatomical structures that contribute to neck heaviness and aging. Rather than just tightening skin and surface muscles, this method allows the surgeon to refine elements like drooping glands, deep fat pads, or bulky muscle edges for more dramatic and long-lasting improvement.
This approach is particularly useful in patients with a full or heavy neck, prominent platysmal bands, or visible gland bulging. Once deeper tissues are adjusted, the skin is redraped without tension, producing smoother, natural-looking contours.
While highly effective, the deep plane technique is more complex and associated with a slightly higher risk of nerve-related complications. Reported rates of temporary nerve palsy vary but remain low when performed by experienced surgeons. Patient satisfaction is consistently high — typically between 81% and 99% — though few studies use standardized or objective scoring methods to evaluate outcomes.
MACS Neck Lift
The MACS lift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) is a modern technique designed to treat mild to moderate sagging in the lower face and neck using shorter incisions and internal suspension sutures. It lifts tissues in a vertical vector rather than pulling them backward, which reduces downtime and scarring.
The MACS neck lift is ideal for patients with:
- Early jowling or neck sagging
- Mild “turkey neck”
- Good skin tone and elasticity
It does not typically address deep fat or gland issues but offers natural-looking results with a faster recovery than a full or deep plane lift.
Mini Neck Lift
A mini neck lift is a simplified procedure for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity and early signs of neck aging. It uses small incisions behind the ears and focuses on tightening loose skin and reducing fat under the chin — without addressing the deeper platysma muscle.
This option is best for:
- Patients in their 40s or early 50s
- Mild sagging with no muscle banding
- Those seeking a quicker recovery or maintenance after a previous procedure
It is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation and has less downtime, but it’s not appropriate for advanced aging signs or heavy necks.
Emerging Techniques: Light-Guided Suspension
Minimally invasive options like MyEllevate® or percutaneous platysmaplasty use small punctures and light-guided sutures to lift the platysma and improve neck definition. These are not substitutes for surgical lifts but may benefit younger patients with:
- Mild neck laxity
- Good skin quality
- No excess fat or prominent glands
Often combined with liposuction or skin tightening, they provide modest improvement with little downtime.
Complementary Procedures
Neck lift surgery is often combined with:
- Lower facelift – to lift jowls and enhance facial harmony
- Chin augmentation – to improve jawline projection
- Submental liposuction – to contour under the chin
- Botox – to soften visible platysmal bands in early stages or for maintenance (see our [Botox article])
- Brow lift – in cases where upper facial sagging contributes to imbalance
Combining procedures allows the surgeon to tailor treatment to the full facial profile.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Most neck lift patients are between 40 and 70 years old, but candidacy depends more on anatomy and visible aging signs than on age alone.
You may be a good candidate if you have:
- Sagging or crepey neck skin
- Muscle banding (vertical platysmal bands)
- Fat accumulation under the chin
- A blunted jawline or “turkey neck”
- Good general health and realistic expectations
A consultation with a qualified surgeon helps assess the underlying structure of your neck — including fat, skin tone, muscle position, and gland visibility — to determine the right technique.
Anesthesia Options
Neck lifts can be performed under:
- Local anesthesia with sedation (often used for mini lifts)
- General anesthesia (preferred for deep plane or combined procedures)
Your surgeon will recommend the safest and most comfortable option based on the procedure plan.
Recovery and Downtime
Recovery varies by technique, but a general timeline includes:
- Days 1–3: Swelling, bruising, and a tight feeling are common. Compression garments may be worn.
- Week 1: Most sutures are removed. Light walking and desk work may resume.
- Weeks 2–3: Bruising fades. Most patients return to social activities.
- Weeks 4–6: Resume full physical activity and exercise.
- 3–6 months: Final results are visible as swelling subsides and scars fade.
Mild numbness and tightness can last several weeks. Scars are usually discreetly hidden around the ears or under the chin.
Risks and Safety
When performed by an experienced surgeon, neck lifts are generally safe. However, risks can include:
- Hematoma (0.2–4%)
- Temporary or permanent nerve injury (0.2–12%)
- Infection
- Scarring or asymmetry
- Contour irregularities or skin rippling
- Cobra neck deformity – a rare complication from overly aggressive fat removal causing midline skin depression
Careful technique and patient selection help minimize complications.
Longevity of Results
The results of a neck lift are long-lasting, but not permanent. How long they last depends on the technique used, individual aging patterns, and lifestyle factors.
- Mini neck lifts, which are less invasive and focus on mild sagging, generally last around 5 years before touch-ups may be needed.
- Traditional or deep plane neck lifts, which address deeper anatomical layers, typically offer visible improvements that last 10 to 15 years or more.
Several factors affect how long the results will hold:
- Skin quality and elasticity
- Genetics and hormonal aging
- Sun exposure and smoking
- Significant weight changes or stress
While the neck will continue to age naturally, surgery can significantly reset the clock. Many patients never return to their preoperative appearance, even after a decade.
To help maintain results:
- Use daily sun protection (SPF 30+)
- Avoid smoking and maintain a stable weight
- Follow a consistent skincare routine
- Consider non-surgical maintenance treatments, such as:
- RF or ultrasound skin tightening
- Microneedling
- Botox for platysmal bands
- Light chemical peels or laser
A neck lift provides a strong foundation — but long-term results depend in part on how you care for your skin and body afterward.
Neck Lift Pricing in Belgium
Neck lift prices vary by surgeon, clinic, and the complexity of the procedure. Typical ranges:
- Mini neck lift: €2,000 – €3,500
- MACS lift: €4,000 – €6,000
- Full or deep plane lift: €5,000 – €7,000+
- Liposuction add-on: +€800 – €1,200
Pricing generally includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, and facility costs. Always request a detailed estimate during your consultation.
