Neck Lift
Boca Raton, FL San Diego, CA
The neck is often one of the first places we notice aging. You may have noticed that the skin under your chin has become loose, or perhaps the appearance of sagging jowls and a “turkey wattle” has begun to distract from your overall facial appearance. Age-related wrinkling is also a common concern addressed by neck lift surgery, as it helps reduce skin creasing and achieve a smoother neck appearance. These changes happen as the neck muscles weaken and the skin loses its natural elasticity over time.
At the practice of Landon S. Pryor, MD, FACS, we recognize that every patient carries a unique medical history and aesthetic vision. Our approach is rooted in the belief that true beauty lies in balance. We invite you to schedule a private consultation to discuss how a surgical neck lift can help you feel your best.
Primary Goal
Removes excess neck skin and tightens underlying muscles for a firm profile.
Procedure Time
Typically 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity.
Anesthesia
Performed comfortably under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
Recovery
Most patients see swelling and bruising resolve within a few weeks.
A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck area. Unlike nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments that address only the surface, this surgical procedure targets deeper structures. Nonsurgical neck contouring options include Botox, dermal fillers, Kybella, radiofrequency with microneedling, and ultrasound technology, which can help refine the neck’s appearance without surgery. Patients can choose options that focus on removing excess skin, repositioning fat cells, or tightening the neck muscles to eliminate a double chin. The overall purpose is to create a clean, sharp angle between the neck and chin.
Among cosmetic procedures for neck rejuvenation, a neck lift is a surgical approach in which the surgeon makes incisions, tightens underlying muscles, removes excess skin and fat, and then closes the incisions to achieve a smoother, more youthful neck contour.
A neck lift is a form of plastic surgery designed to rejuvenate the neck and enhance your overall appearance. Your journey begins with a focus on safety and comfort. During the procedure, Dr. Pryor makes small incisions, typically hidden behind the ears or under the chin, to keep incision lines discreet. Through these openings, he carefully tightens the underlying muscles and removes excess skin and fat. If there is a significant amount of excess fat, liposuction may be used for better neck contouring. Once the deeper tissues are secured, the skin is gently draped to ensure natural-looking results without tension.
A neck lift is the gold standard for treating a variety of age-related concerns. It addresses the "turkey neck" caused by loose skin, as well as the vertical bands created by weakened neck muscles. The procedure also corrects abnormal contours caused by excess wrinkling and the accumulation of fat under the jawline. By reducing wrinkles and removing extra skin, we can help you move past the frustration of a profile that feels heavy or tired.
The primary benefit is a significant, long-lasting improvement to your profile. While nonsurgical options have their place for younger patients with minor skin loss, a surgical neck lift provides a more thorough and permanent solution. You will likely notice that clothes fit more comfortably and your silhouette looks much sharper in photographs. This procedure helps align your outward appearance with the energy you feel inside.
Ideal candidates are in good overall health and frustrated by sagging skin or a double chin. This procedure is excellent for anyone who has lost significant weight or is noticing the natural signs of aging. During your consultation, we will review your medical history to ensure you are a good fit. While we strive for perfection, it is important to have realistic expectations. Potential complications are rare but will be discussed openly to ensure you feel confident in your decision.
The recovery process is a time for rest and healing. Most patients experience swelling and bruising, which typically peak in the first few days and subside over a few weeks. We provide clear instructions on caring for your incision lines and managing any discomfort. Because this is an outpatient procedure, you will be able to recover at home, with our team available 24/7 to answer any questions that arise.
To reduce the risk of complications and ensure the best possible results, it’s essential to follow Dr. Pryor's post-operative instructions, attend all follow-up appointments, and maintain good overall health. Avoiding smoking and excessive sun exposure can further support optimal healing and skin quality. In some cases, nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments such as skin resurfacing may be recommended to enhance your results and address fine lines or skin loss.
Remember, a neck lift takes time to heal, and patience is crucial during recovery. By staying informed, communicating openly with your cosmetic surgeon, and following their expert guidance, you can minimize risks and enjoy a smoother, more youthful appearance that reflects your inner vitality.
While neck lift surgery is a highly effective way to rejuvenate your profile and address excess skin, sagging jowls, and a double chin, it’s important to understand that, like any cosmetic surgery, it carries some potential risks. Being informed about these possibilities allows you to make the best decision for your health and the outcome you desire.
Some potential complications of neck lift procedures include infection, hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin), and seroma (fluid accumulation). These issues are rare, especially when the procedure is performed surgically by an experienced plastic surgeon, but they can affect the healing of neck skin and underlying muscles. Nerve damage is another uncommon risk, which may result in temporary or, in rare cases, permanent changes in sensation in the neck area.
Occasionally, patients may experience skin relaxation or recurrence of loose neck skin and excess fat, particularly if there are significant changes in weight or if the natural aging process continues to affect skin quality. Scarring and asymmetry can also occur, though careful placement of small incisions and advanced surgical techniques help minimize these concerns. In the first few weeks after surgery, it’s normal to have swelling and bruising, but any unusual discharge, severe pain, or difficulty swallowing should be reported to your surgeon promptly.
The final results of your neck lift will reveal a smoother, firmer, and more youthful appearance. Once the initial swelling subsides, the new contours of your jawline and neck will be clear. While no surgery can stop the aging process entirely, the improvements made during a neck lift are designed to last for many years. You can expect to see a refreshed profile that looks completely natural and authentically you.
Dr. Pryor is a board-certified plastic surgeon who combines world-class training with a patient-centered philosophy. He specializes in advanced neck lift procedures that focus on the underlying anatomy rather than just the skin surface. When you choose our practice, you are choosing a concierge-level experience where your safety, comfort, and aesthetic goals are the priority from your first visit to your final follow-up
East Coast? West Coast? No matter where you are, getting high-end care from one of the nation’s leading plastic surgeons will be worth the trip. Dr. Landon Pryor is a triple board-certified, triple fellowship-trained plastic surgeon known for surgical excellence in both aesthetic plastic surgery and as a national leader in Breast Implant Illness (BII) care and explant surgery. His aesthetic highlights include a deep structural approach to procedures like facelift, rhinoplasty, and breast contouring, aiming for natural-looking, refined, and stable results. For BII patients, he is recognized as a "Surgeon Advocate" who utilizes innovative explant techniques, such as the En Bloc Capsulectomy, and integrates holistic recovery protocols.
Patients travel from across the country to see Dr. Pryor because he is a "National Destination for Explant Surgery & Aesthetic Excellence," offering a steady presence, an evidence-first approach, and compassionate care from a highly trained surgeon who validates their symptoms and provides a safe path to restoration.
You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Pryor at the following locations:
Dr. Pryor uses advanced techniques to ensure incision lines are placed in natural skin folds or behind the ears. This makes any resulting marks very difficult to see once they have fully healed. Most patients feel very comfortable with their results and don't need to hide their necks with scarves or high collars.
While a facelift focuses on the mid-to-lower face and cheeks, a neck lift specifically targets the area from the jawline down to the collarbone. Many patients choose to combine these facial procedures for a more comprehensive rejuvenation of both the face and neck. We will discuss which approach is best for your specific goals during your visit.
A neck lift alone will not change the appearance of your upper face. However, it is very common to pair neck contouring with a brow lift or another surgical procedure to rejuvenate aging eyes. This ensures that the refreshed look of your neck matches the rest of your facial features, creating a balanced, youthful appearance.
For your safety and comfort, most neck lift procedures are performed under general anesthesia. In some cases involving less extensive work, local anesthesia with intravenous sedation may be an option. Dr. Pryor will determine the safest choice for you based on your health and the details of your surgical plan.
Most patients feel ready to return to non-strenuous work within ten to fourteen days. While some minor swelling may still be present, it is usually not noticeable to others by this point. We will provide a personalized timeline for your return to social activities and exercise.
Yes, younger patients who have experienced significant weight loss or who have a genetic predisposition to a double chin can benefit greatly from this procedure. If the skin quality is still very high, a smaller procedure focusing only on fat removal or muscle tightening may be all that is needed.
Yes, younger patients who have experienced significant weight loss or who have a genetic predisposition to a double chin can benefit greatly from this procedure. If the skin quality is still very high, a smaller procedure focusing only on fat removal or muscle tightening may be all that is needed.
Preparation involves staying hydrated, avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding, and arranging for a friend or family member to drive you home. We will provide a comprehensive neck contouring guide and a list of steps to take in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
