Over time, the skin on the neck tends to lose firmness, folds appear and the dreaded double chin becomes more noticeable. The neck lift has become one of the most requested procedures to rejuvenate this area and regain a more defined, harmonious appearance. In this article we explain in detail what this surgery involves, its benefits, how recovery looks and why it may be the solution if you notice sagging or excess skin beneath the chin.
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift (also called cervicoplasty or platysmaplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that aims to tighten skin, eliminate sagging and redefine the neck contour and jawline. With aging, loss of collagen and accumulation of fat in this area can lead to a double chin or an aged appearance of the neck, even in otherwise slim people.
With this procedure excess skin and fat are removed, neck muscles are reinforced, and a firmer, smoother and natural-looking appearance is restored.
Why does the double chin and neck laxity occur?
A double chin or sagging neck can have several causes, including:
- Natural aging: skin loses elasticity and the platysma muscle weakens, allowing tissues to descend.
- Fat accumulation: localized fat under the chin can appear even in people with a healthy weight.
- Genetic factors: bone structure and heredity strongly influence the tendency to develop a double chin.
- Posture and habits: prolonged forward head posture, such as looking down at a phone, can contribute to cervical laxity.
The neck lift is the most effective technique to reverse these effects because it addresses the three layers that age: skin, fat and muscle.
What does the neck lift procedure involve?
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient. The surgery typically lasts between two and three hours.
1. Removal of excess fat
In many cases the neck lift is combined with liposuction to remove fat accumulated under the chin. This refines the profile and slims the area.
2. Muscle repositioning
The platysma muscle, which contributes to neck firmness, is tightened with internal sutures. This step is key to achieving long-lasting, natural results.
3. Removal of excess skin
Excess skin is excised and carefully adjusted to avoid a pulled appearance. Incisions are typically placed behind the ears and beneath the chin, leaving scars that are discreet and well hidden.
Benefits of a neck lift
- Eliminates a double chin and redefines the facial contour.
- Tightens loose neck skin and improves texture.
- Corrects platysmal bands — the vertical cords that age the neck.
- Delivers durable, natural-looking results.
- Can be combined with other treatments, such as a facelift or fat grafting, for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Who is a good candidate for a neck lift?
A neck lift is indicated for men and women who notice:
- Visible sagging or a double chin.
- Loss of definition at the jawline.
- Vertical bands or cords in the neck.
- An aged or tired appearance in the lower face.
It is important that the patient is in good general health, has realistic expectations and understands the goal is improvement rather than a complete transformation.
Recovery after a neck lift
Recovery from a neck lift is progressive and varies between patients. General recommendations usually include:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first 10 days.
- Sleep with the head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, medication and the use of compression garments.
Initial swelling and bruising typically subside within two weeks. Improvements are noticeable after one month, and the final result usually stabilizes around three months.
How long do neck lift results last?
Results can last between 8 and 12 years depending on skin type, lifestyle habits and the natural aging process. Maintaining a good skincare routine, avoiding smoking and protecting the skin from sun exposure are key to prolonging results.
Risks and possible complications
As with any surgery, a neck lift involves some risks, although they are uncommon when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Potential complications include:
- Temporary swelling or bruising.
- Mild numbness in the treated area.
- Minimal risk of infection or bleeding.
- Small irregularities in scarring or wound healing.
Choosing an experienced specialist is essential to minimize risks and ensure harmonious, natural results.
Neck lift in Málaga and Marbella with Dr. Brianda
If you are considering a neck lift in Málaga or Marbella, Dr. Brianda’s clinics are a trusted reference in facial cosmetic surgery. With broad experience in facial rejuvenation procedures, Dr. Brianda combines advanced surgical techniques with an artistic vision of the face to achieve natural, elegant and balanced outcomes.
Every treatment is personalised according to the patient’s needs, carefully assessing the degree of laxity, skin quality and overall facial harmony.
Why choose Dr. Brianda’s clinic?
- Board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience.
- Natural, customised results tailored to each patient.
- State-of-the-art technology and a safe medical environment.
- Close attention and comprehensive postoperative follow-up.
Regain firmness and redefine your profile
The neck is one of the areas that most clearly shows the passage of time, but it is also one of the areas that responds best to an appropriate treatment. With a neck lift you can restore a defined silhouette, remove the double chin and rejuvenate your appearance in a natural and lasting way.
Request a personalised assessment at Dr. Brianda’s clinics in Málaga or Marbella and discover how we can help you recover the firmness and beauty of your neck safely.
Book your appointment now and take the first step towards natural, elegant rejuvenation.
