As we age, the skin on the neck loses elasticity, and underlying muscles may weaken, leading to sagging skin, muscle banding, and the appearance commonly known as a “turkey neck.” A neck lift, also called a lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure specifically designed to target these concerns and restore a firmer, more youthful neck contour.
1. Tightening Loose Skin
One of the most noticeable signs of aging in the neck is lax, drooping skin. During a neck lift, the surgeon carefully removes excess skin and re-drapes the remaining tissue to create a smoother, tighter appearance. This eliminates the hanging or wrinkled skin that contributes to the “turkey neck” look.
2. Removing or Repositioning Fat
In some cases, excess fat accumulates under the chin or around the jawline, further blurring the neck’s natural contours. A neck lift often includes liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits or direct excision of fat. This enhances jawline definition and helps eliminate a double chin or full neck appearance.
3. Tightening the Platysma Muscle
The platysma muscle runs vertically along the neck and tends to weaken with age, leading to visible neck banding. A neck lift involves tightening or suturing this muscle in the midline (a technique called platysmaplasty) to smooth out these vertical bands and support the overlying skin.
4. Improving Jawline Definition
By removing sagging skin and contouring underlying structures, a neck lift can restore the natural angle between the chin and neck. This sharpens the jawline, creating a more youthful and refined profile.
5. Combining with Other Facial Procedures
Many patients opt to combine a neck lift with a facelift, chin augmentation, or skin resurfacing for more comprehensive rejuvenation. This ensures facial and neck areas blend seamlessly, avoiding a mismatch between a youthful face and an aged neck.
Benefits of a Neck Lift for Turkey Neck and Sagging Skin:
- Restores a firm, youthful neckline
- Eliminates drooping or crepey skin
- Reduces neck banding and visible muscle cords
- Enhances the contour of the chin and jawline
- Provides long-lasting, natural-looking results
A neck lift is not just about aesthetics—it can also significantly improve confidence and self-image. If you’re bothered by sagging skin or a turkey neck, consulting with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon can help you understand your options and determine if a neck lift is right for you
