Neck Lift
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Neck Lift at Mountain West Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa
As we age, the neck is often one of the first areas to show visible signs of aging, including sagging skin, neck bands, and the loss of natural contour beneath the jawline.
These changes can occur even if the rest of your face still feels vibrant and youthful. A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a highly effective cosmetic surgery that targets these concerns, creating a smoother, firmer, and more defined profile.At Mountain West Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa in Kalispell, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in natural-looking, precision neck contouring that turns back the clock on signs of aging. If you're bothered by a double chin, loose skin, or early skin laxity, we’ll guide you toward the right solution based on your goals.
A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to correct common aging-related changes in the neck area, including sagging skin, platysma muscle banding, and the buildup of excess fat beneath the chin and jawline.
Also known as a lower rhytidectomy, this procedure addresses both the surface and structural changes that develop as a result of aging, sun damage, or genetics. During neck lift surgery, our surgeons carefully lift and tighten neck muscles, reposition tissue, and remove excess skin and fat to reduce visible neck bands and restore youthful contours. The result is smoother neck skin, a more elegant jawline, and a refreshed yet natural look. A neck lift may be performed on its own or alongside other facial procedures, such as facelift surgery, eyelid surgery, or skin resurfacing for more comprehensive rejuvenation.
A neck lift is an outpatient procedure performed using general anesthesia. The surgeon creates an incision around the ears, hidden in natural folds.
In some cases, a second small incision is created beneath the chin to address fat cells or tighten the platysma muscle.
Through these access points, the surgeon removes excess fat, tightens loose neck skin, and lifts underlying tissue to create long-lasting change at the structural level. If needed, we may also perform targeted liposuction to reduce submental fat and further refine your jawline. The incisions are then closed using meticulous techniques to reduce tension and minimize scarring. After a short monitoring period in a private recovery space, patients return home the same day.
A neck lift is ideal for treating a wide range of concerns in the neck area, especially when nonsurgical options no longer provide satisfying results. This procedure can improve:
Patients often explore this procedure when the skin beneath the chin and jaw begins to droop or show texture changes that nonsurgical treatments can't address.
The neck lift procedure can create a dramatic improvement in your overall facial profile while maintaining your natural contours. Patients can expect:
By removing excess skin and tightening the connective tissue, the procedure delivers a refined, lifted effect. You’ll still look like yourself, just refreshed and more defined.
You may be a good candidate for neck lift surgery if you are bothered by visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline, like loose neck skin, neck bands, or a double chin. Many neck lift patients have tried nonsurgical procedures without achieving their desired results. Candidates for cosmetic surgery should be in good health and not smoke, or should be willing to quit before their procedure. Dr. Hromadka or Dr. Spring will review your medical history to ensure you do not have any conditions that lead to poor wound healing or interfere with the healing process. During the consultation, we assess each patient's goals, anatomy, and skin quality to determine the best treatment approach.
Neck lift recovery typically requires 10 to 14 days of downtime. During the first week, swelling and bruising are expected, especially around the ears and under the chin.
Aftercare instructions will include keeping your head elevated and avoiding turning your neck sharply to support proper blood flow and tissue settling.
You may wear a soft compression garment to help minimize swelling and improve neck contouring during healing. Most patients return to light activities within 1-2 weeks, with full results continuing to become more refined over the following months. Our team will provide detailed guidance on post-op care, and your surgeon will remain fully available to answer questions and offer extra support between appointments. It's important to attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress and ensure a smooth healing experience
You’ll begin to see early improvement in your neck’s appearance within the first few weeks after surgery, with final results taking shape around 2–3 months as residual swelling resolves.
Neck lift incisions are strategically placed to be discreet and tend to fade well over time with proper care. Results from a surgical neck lift are long-lasting, especially when supported by good skincare, healthy lifestyle habits, and daily sun protection. Patients often describe their new look as rested, confident, and refined. While the aging process continues, a neck lift turns back the clock, helping you enjoy renewed confidence in how you look and feel for years to come.
A neck lift targets the lower face and neck area, improving the jawline, tightening neck muscles, and addressing neck bands. A facelift is more focused on lifting the cheeks and midface. Many patients combine both for balanced results.
The optimal results of a neck lift typically last 8 to 10 years. While no cosmetic procedure can stop time, a neck lift can delay further aging and help maintain a smoother profile over time.
The best timing for neck lift surgery depends less on your age than on visible signs of aging. Younger patients in their 40s or early 50s who are seeing changes in skin quality, a double chin, or platysmal banding in the neck may benefit from early intervention with either a surgical neck lift or nonsurgical options. We'll provide honest information and guidance to help you choose the best approach for your goals and lifestyle.
Nonsurgical procedures like radiofrequency tightening, ultrasound energy treatments, laser skin resurfacing, and injectables offer a minimally invasive method to improve early signs of laxity. These treatments work best for mild concerns, while a neck lift addresses more significant signs of aging, such as lax muscles and excess skin.
Incisions are placed around the ears and under the chin, where they blend well into natural folds. With proper care and sun protection, neck lift scars are well-hidden and discreet.
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