Get the Perfect Neckline
The lower face and neck are often the first areas where aging becomes visible—loose skin under the chin, softening along the jawline, or vertical neck banding can all contribute to an aged or tired appearance. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, our modern neck lift techniques are designed to restore definition, reduce excess tissue, and deliver natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation.
A neck lift (lower face and neck rhytidectomy) focuses on improving the jawline, upper neck, and under-chin area by tightening the underlying tissue, removing excess fat, and trimming redundant skin. Unlike full facelift surgery, a neck lift does not fully target the lower third of the face or jowls since there are limited incisions. Our approach includes deep tissue suspension (platysmal tightening) using advanced suture techniques to lift the structural layer of the neck—not just the skin. The result is a defined neck contour without the pulled or over-tightened look.Â
Ideal patients are typically between the ages of 40 and 60, in good health, and non-smokers. If you also have signs of aging in the jowls, midface, or brows, a more comprehensive facelift—or combination with a brow lift—may be recommended. For patients with earlier or milder aging changes, non-surgical options such as Necktite or injectables may be more appropriate.
Your neck lift is performed under oral sedation and local anesthesia with nerve blocks to ensure comfort without the need for general anesthesia. Once numb, small incisions are placed discreetly behind the ears and under the chin. Through these openings, we reposition the underlying platysma layer, anchoring tissues with sutures for durable, natural elevation.Â
Excess skin is conservatively trimmed, and incisions are meticulously closed to minimize visibility. The entire procedure typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours, and patients return home the same day with a responsible escort. You will be provided with detailed instructions and a follow-up appointment for swelling treatments and suture removal.
A neck lift is a targeted procedure that focuses specifically on the muscles and skin of the neck, helping to redefine the neckline and restore a sharper, more youthful angle beneath the chin. Because it addresses a more limited anatomical area than a full facelift, a neck lift typically involves shorter incisions and reduced downtime. While a standard neck lift does not directly correct jowling (which is considered part of the lower face), some patients may benefit from an extended neck lift, which blends into the lower face to improve the transition between the jawline and neck.Â
For patients whose primary concern is fullness or banding under the chin, but who aren’t ideal candidates for skin-only procedures like liposuction or radiofrequency tightening (Necktite), a central (submental) neck lift may be appropriate. This approach uses a single incision under the chin to access and tighten the platysma muscle, creating a cleaner, more structured profile without the need for wider dissection.
Choosing to undergo neck lift surgery is a personal decision—but selecting an experienced, thoughtful surgeon can make all the difference. At the Pittsburgh Center for Plastic Surgery, our team brings decades of experience and refined aesthetic judgment to every procedure. We focus on creating results that are natural, not obvious—and that age gracefully with you.Â
To learn more about neck lift surgery or explore your facial rejuvenation options, contact us online or call (412) 802-6100 to schedule a private consultation. Let’s discuss how we can help you restore a refreshed, confident profile.
You may be a candidate if you’re bothered by sagging neck skin, loss of definition under the chin, or visible platysmal bands. Ideal patients are in good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations. For early signs of aging in your 30s-40s, non-surgical options like FaceTite may be appropriate alternatives.
A neck lift focuses specifically on the neck and jawline, whereas a facelift treats aging in the midface and lower face as well. Many patients benefit from a combined approach, but those with isolated neck concerns may achieve excellent results with a standalone neck lift.
Neck lift results typically last 8 to 12 years, depending on genetics, skin quality, and lifestyle factors like sun exposure and weight fluctuations. The deeper the tissue layer lifted, the more durable and natural the outcome tends to be.
Most patients experience bruising and swelling for 7–10 days and return to normal activities within 2 weeks. You’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks. Discomfort is typically mild and managed with oral medications.
A traditional neck lift focuses below the jawline, so it does not fully correct jowls or midface sagging. However, some patients opt for an extended neck lift that addresses the jawline and lower cheek area as well. Your surgeon will help you decide which approach is best based on your anatomy.
If you’re mainly concerned with a double chin or submental fullness, and your skin is still firm, you may be a candidate for liposuction, or FaceTite instead of a full neck lift. However, if muscle banding or skin laxity is present, a limited necklift through a small incision under the chin may offer good results and a less invasive approach.
Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure your comfort and privacy during your visit. We are located in the heart of Pittsburgh and serve patients from all over the world. When you are ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Davila or Dr. Turer. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of looking and feeling your best.
Pittsburgh (Main) Office
3109 Forbes Ave, Ste 500,
Pittsburgh PA 15213
Mon: 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday: 9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday: 9am - 4:30pm
Friday: 8am - 4:30pm
Saturday: By Appointment
