Neck Lift Surgery: Addressing Turkey Neck and Jowls Effectively

Table of Contents

• Understanding Turkey Neck and Jowls: Causes and Signs
• What is Neck Lift Surgery? Techniques and Approaches
• Platysmaplasty: The Gold Standard for Neck Rejuvenation
• Who is an Ideal Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery?
• What to Expect: Neck Lift Procedure and Recovery Timeline
• Non-Surgical Alternatives vs. Surgical Neck Rejuvenation
• Long-Term Results: How Long Does a Neck Lift Last?
• Choosing a Qualified Surgeon for Your Neck Lift Procedure

Understanding Turkey Neck and Jowls: Causes and Signs

The neck is often one of the first areas to show visible signs of ageing, with many patients developing what is colloquially known as “turkey neck” – a condition characterised by loose, sagging skin and excess fat beneath the chin and along the neck. Similarly, jowls form when facial skin begins to sag below the jawline, creating a drooping appearance that can significantly affect one’s profile.

Several factors contribute to these aesthetic concerns. The primary culprit is the natural ageing process, during which our skin loses elasticity and collagen production decreases. The platysma muscle – a thin, sheet-like muscle that extends from the chest up to the jaw – also weakens and separates over time, creating visible bands across the neck. Additional contributing factors include:

• Genetics – family history often predetermines how your skin will age
• Sun exposure – UV damage accelerates collagen breakdown
• Weight fluctuations – repeated gaining and losing of weight stretches skin
• Smoking – reduces blood flow to the skin and depletes vitamin C, essential for collagen production
• Poor posture – constantly looking down at devices can accelerate neck ageing (“tech neck”)

The signs of turkey neck and jowls typically become noticeable in one’s 40s or 50s, though they may appear earlier in some individuals. Common indicators include horizontal neck lines, vertical banding, excess fat beneath the chin, and a poorly defined jawline. Many patients report feeling that their neck appearance makes them look older than they feel, creating a disconnect between their inner vitality and outer appearance.

What is Neck Lift Surgery? Techniques and Approaches

Neck lift surgery, medically termed cervicoplasty or lower rhytidectomy, is a sophisticated cosmetic procedure designed to restore a more youthful contour to the neck and jawline. This surgical intervention addresses multiple aesthetic concerns including sagging skin, excess fat deposits, muscle laxity, and the formation of jowls that contribute to an aged appearance.

Modern neck lift surgery encompasses several technical approaches, each tailored to address specific anatomical concerns:

Traditional Neck Lift

This comprehensive approach involves incisions typically placed behind the ears and sometimes under the chin. Through these access points, the surgeon can remove excess skin, reposition underlying tissues, and tighten the platysma muscle. This technique is particularly effective for patients with significant skin laxity and muscle banding.

Limited Incision Neck Lift

For patients with moderate neck ageing, a limited incision approach may be suitable. This technique utilises shorter incisions, typically around the ears only, resulting in less visible scarring while still providing noticeable improvement to the neck contour.

Submentoplasty

This focused technique addresses primarily the area beneath the chin through a small incision under the chin. It’s particularly effective for patients with good skin elasticity but excess fat or mild muscle laxity in the central neck region.

The appropriate technique is determined based on the patient’s unique anatomy, degree of ageing, and aesthetic goals. At our London clinic, we emphasise a personalised approach to neck rejuvenation, often combining elements of different techniques to achieve optimal, natural-looking results that harmonise with the patient’s overall facial appearance.

Platysmaplasty: The Gold Standard for Neck Rejuvenation

Platysmaplasty represents the cornerstone of comprehensive neck rejuvenation surgery, specifically addressing the platysma muscle – the thin, sheet-like muscle that extends from the chest to the jaw. As we age, this muscle often separates and weakens, creating visible vertical bands across the neck that contribute significantly to an aged appearance.

This specialised surgical technique involves the precise modification and tightening of the platysma muscle to create a smoother, more youthful neck contour. During the procedure, the surgeon makes strategic incisions that allow access to the underlying muscular structure. The separated platysma bands are then identified and meticulously sutured together in the midline, creating a supportive muscular sling or “corset” that provides internal structural support to the neck.

The advantages of platysmaplasty over other neck rejuvenation techniques include:

• Comprehensive correction of muscle banding
• Long-lasting structural improvement
• Enhanced definition of the cervicomental angle (the angle between the neck and under-chin)
• Improved jawline definition
• More natural-looking results compared to skin tightening alone

Platysmaplasty is often combined with other techniques such as cervicoplasty (removal of excess skin) and liposuction (removal of excess fat) to provide a multi-layered approach to neck rejuvenation. This combination addresses all anatomical components that contribute to an aged neck appearance: skin, fat, and muscle.

At our London practice, we consider platysmaplasty the gold standard for patients with moderate to severe neck ageing, particularly those with prominent vertical banding. The technique requires significant surgical expertise and anatomical knowledge to achieve optimal results while maintaining natural neck movement and function.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery?

Determining candidacy for neck lift surgery involves careful assessment of both physical characteristics and health considerations. The ideal candidates for this transformative procedure typically present with specific anatomical concerns while meeting important health criteria.

From an anatomical perspective, suitable candidates often exhibit:

• Excess or sagging skin in the neck region (turkey neck)
• Visible platysmal bands or cords
• Poorly defined jawline or jowl formation
• Submental fullness (double chin) resistant to diet and exercise
• Disproportionate neck contour relative to facial features

The optimal age range for neck lift surgery typically falls between 40 and 70 years, though this varies considerably based on individual factors. Younger patients with genetic predisposition to neck laxity or those who have experienced significant weight loss may also benefit from the procedure. Most importantly, candidates should have realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve.

From a health perspective, ideal candidates should:

• Be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking several weeks before and after surgery
• Have no uncontrolled medical conditions that might impair healing
• Maintain stable weight, as significant fluctuations can compromise results
• Be psychologically prepared for the recovery process
• Understand the limitations and potential risks of the procedure

During your consultation at our London clinic, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine if neck lift surgery is appropriate for your specific concerns. For some patients, we may recommend alternative or complementary procedures to achieve optimal results. Our approach prioritises patient safety while delivering aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking outcomes.

What to Expect: Neck Lift Procedure and Recovery Timeline

Understanding the neck lift procedure and recovery timeline helps patients prepare mentally and logistically for this transformative surgery. At our London clinic, we ensure patients are thoroughly informed about each stage of their journey.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Prior to surgery, patients undergo comprehensive consultation and medical assessment. We provide detailed pre-operative instructions, including medications to avoid, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle adjustments. Patients are advised to arrange for transport home and assistance during the initial recovery period.

The Surgical Procedure

Neck lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation with local anaesthesia, lasting approximately 2-3 hours depending on the complexity and techniques employed. The procedure generally follows these steps:

1. Administration of anaesthesia
2. Strategic incision placement, typically behind the ears and sometimes under the chin
3. Repositioning of underlying tissues and tightening of the platysma muscle
4. Removal of excess skin and fat as needed
5. Meticulous closure of incisions with fine sutures
6. Application of dressings and sometimes a compression garment

Recovery Timeline

The recovery process following neck lift surgery progresses through several phases:

First 24-48 Hours: This period involves rest, head elevation, and management of initial discomfort. Patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and tightness. Pain is generally moderate and well-controlled with prescribed medication.

First Week: Most patients can return to light activities while continuing to wear the compression garment as directed. Sutures are typically removed 5-7 days post-surgery. Bruising remains visible but begins to subside.

2-3 Weeks: Most visible bruising resolves, though some swelling persists. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities, though strenuous exercise remains restricted.

4-6 Weeks: Patients can gradually resume all normal activities including more vigorous exercise. Sensation changes in the neck area begin to improve.

3-6 Months: Final results become increasingly apparent as residual swelling continues to resolve. The neck contour continues to refine, and scars begin to fade.

Is neck lift surgery painful? Most patients report moderate discomfort rather than severe pain, primarily consisting of tightness and pressure sensations. This is effectively managed with prescribed pain medication during the first few days, transitioning to over-the-counter options as healing progresses.

Throughout the recovery process, our team provides comprehensive support with scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns. Patients receive detailed aftercare instructions to optimise their recovery and results.

Non-Surgical Alternatives vs. Surgical Neck Rejuvenation

When considering neck rejuvenation, patients often weigh the benefits of surgical intervention against less invasive alternatives. Understanding the spectrum of available treatments helps in making an informed decision based on individual needs, desired outcomes, and recovery considerations.

Non-Surgical Neck Rejuvenation Options

Injectable Treatments: Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can temporarily relax the platysma bands, reducing the appearance of vertical neck lines. While providing subtle improvement, results typically last 3-4 months and are most effective for mild to moderate muscle banding rather than skin laxity.

Thread Lifts: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting dissolvable threads beneath the skin to provide temporary lifting and stimulate collagen production. Thread lifts offer modest improvement for early jowling and mild skin laxity with minimal downtime, though results generally last only 1-2 years.

Energy-Based Devices: Technologies such as radiofrequency (Thermage, FaceTite), ultrasound (Ultherapy), and laser treatments can stimulate collagen production and provide mild to moderate skin tightening. These treatments are best suited for patients with good skin elasticity and minimal laxity.

Dermal Fillers: Strategic placement of hyaluronic acid fillers can improve jawline definition and reduce the appearance of jowls. However, fillers cannot address excess skin or significant muscle laxity.

Comparing Approaches: Surgical vs. Non-Surgical

When comparing these approaches to surgical neck lift, several factors emerge:

• Degree of Improvement: Surgical neck lift provides significantly more dramatic and comprehensive improvement, particularly for moderate to severe laxity and banding.
• Longevity: Surgical results typically last 7-10 years or longer, while non-surgical treatments require regular maintenance sessions.
• Recovery Time: Non-surgical options offer minimal downtime (hours to days) compared to surgical recovery (weeks).
• Cost Considerations: While non-surgical treatments have lower initial costs, the cumulative expense of maintenance treatments over time often exceeds that of surgery.
• Candidacy: Patients with significant skin laxity, prominent platysmal bands, or excess fat deposits benefit most from surgical intervention, as non-surgical alternatives cannot adequately address these concerns.

At our London practice, we offer a comprehensive range of both surgical and non-surgical neck rejuvenation options. During consultation, we conduct a thorough assessment to recommend the most appropriate approach based on your anatomy, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle considerations. For some patients, a combination of surgical neck lift with complementary non-surgical treatments provides optimal, natural-looking results. Learn more about our comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation in our facelift surgery section.

Long-Term Results: How Long Does a Neck Lift Last?

One of the most common questions patients ask when considering neck lift surgery is about the longevity of results. Understanding the durability of surgical outcomes helps patients make informed decisions about their aesthetic investment.

A well-performed neck lift typically provides visible improvement that lasts between 7-10 years, though this timeframe varies considerably based on individual factors. The procedure effectively “resets the clock” on neck ageing, but it does not stop the natural ageing process entirely. Patients continue to age from their new, more youthful baseline.

Several factors influence the longevity of neck lift results:

Surgical Technique

Comprehensive approaches that address all anatomical components (skin, muscle, and fat) generally provide longer-lasting results than more limited techniques. Platysmaplasty, which corrects the underlying muscular structure, is particularly important for durable outcomes.

Patient Characteristics

Individual factors significantly impact result longevity, including:

• Skin quality and elasticity: Patients with good skin elasticity typically maintain results longer
• Bone structure: Strong facial skeletal support provides better
  

  Frequently Asked Questions

  How much does a neck lift cost in the UK?

  In the UK, neck lift surgery typically costs between £5,000 and £10,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, surgeon expertise, geographical location, and whether it’s combined with other facial procedures. This price generally includes surgeon fees, anaesthesia, facility costs, and follow-up care. During your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed quote specific to your individual needs and treatment plan.

  What is the best age for a neck lift?

  While there’s no definitive “best age” for a neck lift, most patients undergo the procedure between ages 45-65 when signs of neck ageing become more pronounced. However, candidacy depends more on individual anatomy than chronological age. Some patients in their late 30s or early 40s with genetic predisposition to neck laxity or after significant weight loss may benefit from early intervention, while others may not require surgery until their 60s or 70s.

  Is neck lift surgery worth it?

  Most patients report high satisfaction rates with neck lift surgery, with studies showing over 90% of patients considering the procedure “worth it.” The surgery provides significant improvement in neck contour, jawline definition, and overall facial harmony that non-surgical alternatives cannot achieve. Patients frequently report increased confidence and feeling that their outer appearance better reflects their inner vitality. The long-lasting results (7-10 years) also provide good value compared to ongoing non-surgical treatments.

  Can a neck lift be done under local anaesthesia?

  Yes, limited neck lift procedures can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation for appropriate candidates. However, comprehensive neck lifts involving significant platysma muscle work are typically performed under general anaesthesia for optimal patient comfort and surgical precision. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the extent of the procedure, patient health status, and surgeon preference. This decision is made during consultation after thorough assessment of your specific needs.

  How visible are neck lift scars?

  Neck lift scars are strategically placed to be minimally visible. Typical incision locations include behind the ears, within natural skin creases, and sometimes a small incision under the chin. Once healed, these scars are generally well-concealed and difficult to detect. Most patients find that scars fade significantly within 6-12 months post-surgery. Proper scar care, including sun protection and following post-operative instructions, helps optimize scar appearance.

  Can I combine a neck lift with other procedures?

  Yes, neck lifts are frequently combined with complementary procedures for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Common combinations include facelift surgery (for mid-face and jowl improvement), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), fat grafting (to restore facial volume), and skin resurfacing treatments. Combining procedures offers the advantages of a single recovery period and harmonious results. During consultation, your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate combination based on your aesthetic goals and anatomical needs.

  How do I maintain my neck lift results?

  To maximize the longevity of your neck lift results, follow these key maintenance strategies: maintain a stable weight, practice good sun protection (SPF 30+ daily), follow a consistent skincare regimen including retinoids and antioxidants, avoid smoking, stay well-hydrated, and consider periodic non-surgical maintenance treatments like radiofrequency or ultrasound skin tightening. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon can help monitor your results and provide timely recommendations for maintenance procedures when appropriate.