Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy / Cervicoplasty)

Overview
A neck lift refines and tightens the neck and jawline by removing excess skin, fat, and lax muscle tissue. It addresses sagging skin (“turkey neck”), banding, and jowls, restoring a defined and youthful neck contour.

Who It’s For

  • Sagging or loose skin beneath the chin and along the jawline

  • Prominent neck bands (platysmal banding)

  • Localised fat deposits under the chin

  • Patients seeking sharper neck and jaw definition without altering facial identity

Procedure

  • Performed under general anaesthesia or sedation

  • Incisions typically placed behind the ears and sometimes under the chin

  • The platysma muscles are tightened (platysmaplasty) to eliminate banding

  • Excess skin is removed, and underlying fat is sculpted or suctioned

  • Incisions are closed with fine sutures, hidden in natural creases and hairline

Recovery

  • Usually day surgery or overnight stay

  • Swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks

  • Compression garment worn for several days to support the new contour

  • Return to light activities within one week; avoid strenuous exercise for 3–4 weeks

  • Numbness and tightness are temporary and gradually resolve

Results and Scarring

  • Smoother, firmer neck with improved angle and definition

  • Sharper jawline and reduced sagging

  • Scars are concealed behind the ears and under the chin; they fade progressively over time

  • Long-lasting rejuvenation when skin quality and weight remain stable

Risks

  • Bleeding, infection, or fluid accumulation (seroma or hematoma)

  • Temporary numbness or tightness

  • Skin irregularities or asymmetry

  • Rare nerve injury affecting lower face or neck movement

  • Visible scarring if healing complications occur

Long-Term Considerations
Results typically last 8–10 years. Ageing continues naturally, but most patients retain a firmer neck contour long-term. Maintenance with healthy lifestyle habits and non-surgical treatments (skin tightening, laser, or injectables) can extend the aesthetic outcome.

FAQ
1. Will my private insurance cover my hospital bed for an overnight stay following a necklift?
No, because the procedure is cosmetic, it is not covered by private insurance or Medicare. Most patients can safely go home the same day, but some patients prefer to stay overnight. In this case, an additional overnight bed if is payable (typically around $600).