Neck Lift

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anastasios Strevinas, Plastic Surgeon, Strevinas Plastic Surgery in Thessaloniki.

A neck lift (lower rhytidectomy) is the most effective surgical solution for a sagging neck, a heavy “turkey neck” and a poorly defined jawline, when loose skin, excess fat and slack muscle can no longer be improved with simple measures. At Strevinas Plastic Surgery in Thessaloniki, every neck lift is individually planned to restore a smooth, firm and naturally youthful neck and chin line. The results of a neck lift typically last 10 to 15 years.

The neck is one of the most exposed areas of the body and one of the first to show its age. With time, sun exposure, weight fluctuations, genetics and gravity cause the skin to sag, fat to gather under the chin and the platysma muscle to form visible bands. A neck lift tightens these deeper structures and removes excess skin to re-create a defined, rejuvenated neck and jawline.

Is a neck lift right for you?

Ideal neck lift candidates are healthy adults who want to improve:

• A sagging neck and loose, hanging skin, often called a turkey neck
• Excess fat under the chin, the so-called double chin or jowls
• Vertical neck bands that appear when the platysma muscle slackens
• A blurred jawline and loss of definition between the chin and the neck

A neck lift is most rewarding when skin and muscle laxity are moderate to advanced and you want a result that looks natural and lasts for years.

Types of neck lift we perform

There is no single best neck lift; the right technique depends on your anatomy, the amount of loose skin and fat, and your goals. During your consultation in Thessaloniki we recommend the most suitable approach:

Mini neck lift

A mini neck lift uses shorter, well-hidden incisions to tighten mild to moderate sagging and early jowls. It suits younger patients or those with limited loose skin, offers a quicker recovery and is a popular, more affordable option for subtle rejuvenation.

Full neck lift

A full neck lift treats more advanced sagging. Through incisions around the ears, and where needed a small incision under the chin, the deeper tissues are repositioned and excess skin is removed and re-draped for a firm, long-lasting result.

Platysmaplasty for neck bands

When prominent vertical bands are present, platysmaplasty tightens and re-joins the edges of the platysma muscle in the midline. This muscle tightening is what gives a smooth, sculpted neck and a sharp transition to the jawline.

Neck lift with liposuction

For patients whose main concern is a double chin, a neck lift is often combined with liposuction under the chin to remove stubborn fat and refine the contour between the chin and the neck.

What exactly happens during a neck lift?

A neck lift is a surgical operation that tightens the muscle, removes excess fat and skin and restores the contour of the lower face and neck. With ageing the skin loses its elasticity while fat and muscle shift position, which is why a modern neck lift restores support as well as smoothing the surface.

Surgery is performed in a fully equipped private clinic. Incisions are placed around the ears and, depending on the extent of the operation, may extend to the earlobe and into the hairline; a small, well-hidden incision under the chin is added when the muscle or central fat needs to be addressed. Through these incisions the platysma muscle is tightened, fat is removed or repositioned and any excess skin is removed and re-draped to restore a youthful neckline.

Anaesthesia

Neck lift surgery can be performed under general or local anaesthesia with sedation. The method is chosen together by the surgeon and the patient, with comfort and safety during the operation as the priority.

Procedures often combined with a neck lift

To achieve complete, harmonious rejuvenation, a neck lift can be combined with:

• Facelift for sagging cheeks, deep folds and a heavy jawline
• Liposuction under the chin for a double chin and excess fat
• Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) for tired, hooded eyes
• Autologous fat transfer or fillers to restore lost volume

Neck lift for men

A neck lift for men follows the same principles but is carefully tailored to preserve a strong, masculine jawline and a natural hairline, and to keep the result discreet. A turkey neck is one of the most common concerns for male patients, and a neck lift helps them look as energetic and confident as they feel.

Recovery after a neck lift

Recovery is faster and more comfortable than most people expect, and postoperative pain is low. A soft elastic dressing supports the neck for the first day, and any drains are usually removed within two days. For the first few days we recommend keeping your head elevated and avoiding wide neck movements. Swelling and bruising settle over roughly 10 to 15 days, and most patients return to everyday activities and social life within about two weeks. The final result becomes clear over the following months as the scars fade.

How much does a neck lift cost?

The cost of a neck lift depends on the technique chosen (mini or full neck lift), whether it is combined with liposuction or a facelift, and the complexity of your individual case. The price also reflects the clinic, any preoperative tests and medication. After your personal assessment we provide a clear, fixed neck lift price with no hidden extras. Contact us for a personalised neck lift cost estimate.

Why choose Strevinas Plastic Surgery in Thessaloniki

During your consultation, our plastic surgeon discusses your goals and expectations and designs the neck lift, or combination of treatments, that best suits your face and neck. Our aim is simple: that you look relaxed, refreshed and completely natural, and feel like the very best version of yourself.

See real patient results in our before and after gallery, then book your neck lift consultation in Thessaloniki.