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Neck Lift

Ageing and skin laxity can lead to loose skin, muscle banding, excess fat, and loss of definition along the neck and jawline. Over time, the skin loses elasticity, and fat accumulation can contribute to a heavy or sagging appearance. These changes may result in a “turkey neck”, visible muscle bands, or a poorly defined jawline.

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a procedure that tightens underlying muscles, removes excess skin, and enhances neck contours for a more youthful and refined appearance. This treatment improves neck definition and skin tone while maintaining natural movement and balance with facial features.

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Dr Terence Goh

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MRCS

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Ideal Candidates for a Neck Lift

A neck lift is suited to individuals who:

  • Have loose or sagging skin on the neck
  • Notice visible neck bands or muscle laxity
  • Experience excess fat deposits contributing to a fuller or undefined neck
  • Have excess wrinkling of the neck skin, a double chin, or jowl lines
  • Feel their neck area does not match the appearance of the upper face
  • Want to restore neck contours and achieve a smoother, firmer appearance

Benefits of a Neck Lift

  • Tightens Neck Muscles and Reduces Banding

    Weakened or separated neck muscles can lead to the appearance of vertical bands. A neck lift repositions and tightens these muscles, creating a smoother and more youthful contour.

  • Reduces Loose Skin and Wrinkles

    A neck lift removes excess skin and tightens tissues, reducing wrinkles, sagging, and crepey skin for a firmer, more toned neck.

  • Enhances Jawline Definition

    Excess skin and fat in the neck can blur the transition between the jawline and neck. By refining contours, a neck lift improves jawline sharpness and restores balance to facial proportions.

  • Removes Excess Fat for a Contoured Appearance

    For individuals with fullness beneath the chin or along the neck, excess fat can be removed or repositioned to enhance slimmer and more defined contours.

Types of Neck Lift Procedures

Traditional Neck Lift

This approach addresses moderate to severe skin laxity, muscle banding, and excess fat in the neck. It is suitable for individuals with significant sagging, visible vertical bands, and poor definition in the lower face and jawline. The incision typically begins in the hairline at the level of the sideburn, extends around the ear, and ends in the posterior hairline. Fat may be sculpted or redistributed from the jowls and neck, and the platysma muscle is tightened to improve neck contours.

Mini Neck Lift

Also known as a limited incision neck lift, this is a less invasive option suited for mild to moderate skin laxity. It focuses on tightening loose skin and improving definition using incisions only around the ears, leading to a shorter recovery period.

Neck Liposuction (Fat Removal Only)

For those with good skin elasticity but excess fat, liposuction alone can refine neck contours and enhance jawline definition without the need for skin removal.

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Preparing for the Procedure

Consultation and Planning

The consultation assesses skin elasticity, muscle tone, and fat distribution in the neck area. The severity of these changes determines the most suitable surgical approach. A personalised treatment plan is created to restore definition and balance between the neck and jawline.

Pre-Surgical Guidelines

To support healing and minimise complications, blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements should be avoided for at least two weeks before surgery. Smoking should also be stopped at least two weeks in advance, as it affects circulation and may delay recovery.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Anaesthesia Administration

A neck lift is performed under general anaesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation with local anaesthetic, ensuring comfort during the procedure. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the extent of the procedure and individual preference.

2. Incision Placement

Incisions are typically placed behind the ears and, if needed, under the chin for additional muscle tightening. In a traditional neck lift, incisions extend around the ear and into the hairline to remove excess skin, while a limited incision approach uses shorter incisions for mild laxity.

3. Muscle Tightening and Repositioning

Underlying neck muscles are tightened and repositioned to restore a smoother, firmer, more contoured neck. This corrects vertical banding and improves definition by addressing muscle laxity.

4. Excess Fat Removal or Redistribution

If excess fat is contributing to fullness in the neck or under the chin, liposuction or fat repositioning may be performed to enhance slimmer, more defined contours.

5. Skin Tightening and Removal

Once deeper structures are addressed, excess skin is carefully removed, preventing sagging and improving neck tone and definition.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

Immediate Care

Mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tightness are common in the first one to two weeks. Pain medication helps manage discomfort, and applying cold compresses can reduce initial swelling. Keeping the head elevated and avoiding excessive neck movement supports healing and prevents strain on incisions.

Recovery Timeline

Light activities can usually be resumed after one week, though some swelling and tightness may persist. By two to three weeks, bruising fades, and swelling gradually decreases, making early results more visible. Most swelling resolves by six weeks, though full refinement of neck contours may take several months.

Aftercare Recommendations

Strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and any motion that strains the neck, should be avoided for at least four weeks. Sleeping with the head slightly elevated and avoiding excessive head turning reduces stress on incisions. Skincare should focus on gentle cleansing of the incision sites, and sun protection is necessary to prevent pigmentation and ensure proper scar healing.

Potential Risks and Complications

A neck lift is a well-established procedure, but as with any surgery, there are potential risks. Temporary swelling, bruising, and tightness are common and gradually improve over time. Mild scarring is usually discreet and fades with healing. Although rare, complications such as infection, nerve changes, or asymmetry may occur. Following post-surgical instructions carefully helps support a smooth recovery and optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do neck lift results last?

Results typically last 10 years or more, depending on lifestyle factors, genetics, and skincare habits. Sun protection and a healthy lifestyle help maintain a more youthful neck contour. While natural ageing continues, a neck lift significantly slows visible signs of ageing.

Can I have a neck lift if I have very thin skin?

Yes, but individuals with thin skin may require additional treatments such as fat grafting or skin tightening procedures to enhance long-term results and prevent a hollow appearance.

Will a neck lift change the shape of my face?

A neck lift focuses on improving the contours of the neck and jawline, but it does not change facial structure. If additional facial rejuvenation is desired, a chin augmentation can be combined with the procedure for a more balanced look.

Can a neck lift be combined with a face lift?

Yes, a neck lift is often performed alongside a face lift to ensure a smooth, natural transition between the lower face and neck. Combining both procedures creates a more balanced, youthful appearance in a single surgical session.

Does weight gain affect neck lift results?

Yes, significant weight gain after surgery can lead to fat accumulation in the neck, potentially diminishing the results. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the improved contours.

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Dr Terence Goh

Choosing to combine the intricate skills of microsurgery with aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh specialises in gynaecomastia, surgery of the Asian face, particularly Asian eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.

Blending the precision of microsurgery with the artistry of aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh has a special interest in gynaecomastia, facial procedures, including ptosis and eyelid surgery, as well as rhinoplasty.

He also offers a full range of body contouring procedures such as mummy makeovers, breast augmentation, liposuction, and body sculpting—designed to help patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Beyond aesthetics, Dr Goh remains active in reconstructive microsurgery, with expertise in breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and lower limb salvage—restoring both form and function where it’s needed most.

  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
  • Master of Medicine, National University of Singapore
  • Member of the Royal College of Surgeons
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
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