Neck Lift | New Zealand Cosmetic Surgical Specialists

What is a neck lift?

A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. Neck lift surgery aims to address:

Excess fat and skin relaxation in the lower face that contributes to jowls
Excessive perioral activation wrinkles and bitterness lines
Excess fatty deposits under the chin
Loose neck skin
Muscle banding in the neck

The loss of youthful contours in the face and neck can be due to a variety of factors, including heredity, gravity, environmental conditions, lifestyle choices such as smoking, and stress.

In the great majority of cases, the same issues that cause an aged jawline and neck also visibly affect parts of the face. Therefore, techniques of face lift surgery and neck lift surgery are often combined into a single operation. These additional procedures include brow and upper eyelid surgery in the upper face, lower eyelid surgery and lifting of descended cheek tissues in the mid face, and fat transfers in the lower face. The limits to what surgery can accomplish are determined by tissue quality and patient desires. This said, some people feel they are not ready for a “full” facelift because the upper face is still pleasing.

As a restorative surgery, a neck lift does not change one’s fundamental appearance. While it can reverse some of the visible signs of aging, it cannot stop the aging process.

A neck lift can only be performed surgically; nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments cannot achieve the same results, but may help delay the time at which a neck lift becomes appropriate and, used judiciously, can complement the results of surgery.

Who is a good candidate for neck lift surgery?

In general, good candidates for a neck lift include:

Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that impair healing
Nonsmokers
Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Some people feel they are not ready for a full facelift because the upper face is still pleasing. However, many patients will note excess wrinkling of the neck skin, a double chin or “turkey wattle” and jowl lines. When the neck area doesn’t match the upper facial appearance, a neck lift may be a good solution. In these situations, a consultation with an experienced surgeon will help the patient to work through the options and understand what will and wont work for their particular concerns and desires.

What should I expect during my consultation?

During your neck lift surgery consultation be prepared to discuss:

Your surgical goals
Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
Previous surgeries

Approach such a consultation with an open mind rather than a pre-conceived conviction of what you need. The surgeon is not a salesperson, but based on your expectations and the nature of your tissues, may recommend a procedure other than, or in addition to, what you had in mind.

Your neck lift surgeon will also:

Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Discuss your rejuvenation options
Examine and possibly measure your face
Take photographs
Recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of the selected surgical procedure and any risks or potential complications
Discuss the type of anaesthesia that will be used

Be sure to ask questions. It’s very important to understand all aspects of your neck lift. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon about Neck Lift surgery?

Are you vocationally registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand as a specialist plastic surgeon?
Are you a member of the New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons?
Will the procedure be conducted in a hospital or office-based setting, and is the facility accredited for this type of surgery?
What type of anaesthesia is needed for this procedure?
Based on my medical history and condition, is surgery the best option for me? If so, am I a suitable candidate for this surgery?
Which surgical technique do you recommend for my case, and why?
What are the realistic expectations for the outcome of this procedure in my case?
What steps or lifestyle changes are necessary for me to get the best result from my surgery?
What is the anticipated duration of recovery, and what assistance will I need during this period?
What potential risks and complications are associated with this procedure? How would you manage these should they arise?
How will my results change over time?
If I’m unhappy with the outcome, what recourse options are available?

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Disclaimer: This website is intended to provide you with general information only. This information is not a substitute for advice from your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and does not contain all the known facts about this procedure or every possible side effect of surgery. It is important that you speak to your surgeon before deciding to undergo surgery. If you are not sure about the benefits, risks and limitations of treatment, or anything else relating to your procedure, ask your surgeon to explain. Patient information provided as part of this website is evidence-based, and sourced from a range of reputable information providers including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Better Health Channel and Mi-tec medical publishing.