Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty): A Guide to Contouring and Rejuvenation
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 17, 2026
A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat and sagging skin from the neck and tightens the platysma muscle, giving the neck a more contoured, youthful appearance [1].
Quick Answer: What is a neck lift?
A neck lift is a procedure that reshapes the area between the chin and collarbone by removing fat, tightening the platysma muscle and trimming excess skin. It is less invasive than a facelift and usually done as an outpatient procedure, with results lasting years. Swelling and tightness can last months, and nonsurgical alternatives give only temporary results. [1]
What the research says
Platysma-based neck lifts have low complication rates. A systematic review and pooled analysis of 12 studies (2,106 patients) found platysma bands recurred in 1.4% of patients, nerve damage occurred in 0.9%, hematoma in 1.8%, and sialoma in 0.3%. The authors called for longer follow-up and standardized reporting of complications (Cambiaso-Daniel et al., Facial Plast Surg, 2025).
A short-scar (MACS) facelift alone does little for the neck. In a systematic review of six studies (739 patients) of the short-scar MACS lift, satisfaction was high and no major complications were reported, but the effect on neck rejuvenation was limited and additional procedures were needed for an aged neck (Hijkoop et al., J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg, 2022).
What Is a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)?
A neck lift works by lifting and tightening your platysma muscle, a thin sheet of muscle that goes from your collarbones to your lower face and enables movement in your lower face. If the platysma weakens, it can affect how your neck looks [1].
Who Is Neck Lift Surgery For?
You may wish to pursue a neck lift if you have [1]:
Excess fat in your neck
Vertical bands in the neck (platysmal neck bands)
Loose neck skin after losing a lot of weight
Saggy neck skin, similar to the tissue that hangs from a turkey's neck
Wrinkles
Neck Lift vs. Facelift
Neck lift | Facelift | |
Main focus | Area below the chin and above the collarbone | Upper portion of the face |
Invasiveness | Less invasive | Often includes components of a neck lift |
During a neck lift, surgeons remove some fat tissue, but if a double chin is your main concern, other options such as double chin surgery may suit you better [1].
Nonsurgical Alternatives
Cosmetic procedures can enhance the neck's appearance without surgery, but it may take multiple procedures and the results are temporary [1].
Option | How it works |
Botulinum toxin injections | Relax the muscles that cause neck bands, reducing their appearance |
Deoxycholic acid | An injectable solution that destroys fat cells; used under the chin for a more sculpted look |
Dermal fillers | Restore volume by plumping sagging skin |
Fractionated laser treatments | Heat layers of skin beneath the surface to make skin texture more consistent |
How is a neck lift done?
Step | What happens |
1. Anesthesia | General anesthesia (you are asleep) or intravenous (IV) sedation, to keep you comfortable |
2. Incisions | Near the sideburn, around the ear, and under the chin; in some cases only around the ear |
3. Sculpting and tightening | The surgeon removes fat, repositions tissue under the neck, tightens the platysma muscle, and trims excess skin |
4. Closure | Stitches (sutures) or special skin adhesive close the incisions |
Source: Cleveland Clinic [1].
What are the benefits of a neck lift?
The benefits last years longer than nonsurgical options and include a defined jawline, firmer and smoother skin, a streamlined profile, and a youthful appearance [1].
An illustration of the typical goal of a neck lift: reduced sagging and a more defined jawline.
What are the risks of a neck lift (platysmaplasty)?
Neck lift risks include [1]:
Bleeding
Bruising
Changes in skin sensation
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Infection
Pain
Poor wound healing
Swelling (edema)
Temporary hair loss along the incisions
What is recovery and aftercare like after a neck lift?
A neck lift is typically an outpatient procedure. Expect swelling and bruising right after surgery, and your surgeon may place small, temporary tubes to clear blood and other fluid from beneath the skin. Muscle tightness in the neck can last several months [1].
You will receive incision care and other at-home instructions, which may include [1]:
Avoiding alcohol and aspirin
Keeping your head elevated while you sleep
Not applying ice to your neck
Not lifting heavy objects
Avoiding turning your head at the neck
Resting with the head elevated is a common part of neck lift aftercare.
How Long Do Results Last?
Results can last years, but the exact time differs for each person. It depends on genetics (skin elasticity and muscle tone), lifestyle choices such as smoking, sun exposure, and how your recovery went, including any complications [1]. A neck lift does not prevent age-related changes after surgery, so following care instructions, not smoking, and protecting your skin from the sun help you get the most from it.
When should you call your surgeon after a neck lift?
Call your surgeon if you notice signs of complications [1]:
Bleeding
Blood clot symptoms, such as abnormal swelling in an arm or leg
Fever or chills, which can signal infection
An incision that is unusually sore to touch
Pain that does not respond to medication
What is the bottom line on a neck lift?
Platysmaplasty can minimize neck bands, sagging skin, and excess fat, giving the neck a more contoured appearance that lasts years. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the first step to see whether it, or a nonsurgical option, fits your goals [1].
A defined jawline and smoother neck contour are the typical goals of platysmaplasty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the platysma muscle?
The platysma is a thin sheet of muscle that goes from your collarbones to your lower face and enables movement in your lower face. If it weakens, it can affect the appearance of your neck.
How does a neck lift differ from a facelift?
A facelift restores a youthful appearance to the lower and middle face, such as sagging cheeks and jowls, and often includes components of a neck lift. A neck lift is less invasive and focuses on the area below your chin and above your collarbone.
Is neck lift surgery an outpatient procedure?
Yes. A neck lift is typically an outpatient procedure, meaning you go home the same day.
How long do the results of a neck lift last?
Results can last years. How long depends on genetics affecting skin elasticity and muscle tone, lifestyle choices such as smoking, sun exposure, and how your recovery went. The surgery does not prevent age-related changes that occur afterward.
What are horizontal neck bands?
Neck bands are vertical cords in the front of the neck formed by the edges of the platysma muscle. A neck lift tightens the platysma muscle to minimize them, and botulinum toxin injections can temporarily reduce their appearance by relaxing the muscles that cause them.
Can a neck lift fix a double chin?
A neck lift removes some fat tissue, but if a double chin is your primary concern, other options such as double chin surgery may suit you better.
Are there nonsurgical alternatives to a neck lift?
Yes. Options include botulinum toxin injections, deoxycholic acid injections under the chin, dermal fillers, and fractionated laser treatments. You may need multiple procedures, and the results are temporary.
What should I avoid during recovery?
Typical instructions include avoiding alcohol and aspirin, keeping your head elevated while you sleep, not applying ice to your neck, not lifting heavy objects, and avoiding turning your head at the neck. Follow your surgeon's own instructions.
Will I have visible scars after a neck lift?
Incisions are made near the sideburn, around the ear, and under the chin, and in some cases only around the ear, so some scarring is expected. Ask your surgeon where your incisions will be and how they are likely to heal.
When should I call my doctor after surgery?
Call your surgeon for bleeding, blood clot symptoms such as abnormal swelling in an arm or leg, fever or chills, an incision that is unusually sore to touch, or pain that does not respond to medication.
Related Resources
Related reading on Rinnit:
External resources for deeper reading:
References
Cleveland Clinic. Neck lift (platysmaplasty). Cleveland Clinic Health Library. Medically reviewed; last updated June 28, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23364-neck-lift-platysmaplasty
Cambiaso-Daniel J, Giordano S, Agnelli B, et al. Neck lift to treat platysma bands and defining cervical angle: a systematic review and pooled analysis. Facial Plast Surg. 2025;41(4):482-490. PMID: 39406360. DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1791690
Hijkoop LF, Stevens HPJD, van der Lei B. The minimal access cranial suspension (MACS) lift: a systematic review of literature 18 years after its introduction. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2022;75(3):1187-1196. PMID: 34922854. DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2021.11.051
Medical disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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