What you can expect

Before the procedure

Before you have a neck lift, your doctor will consult with you to evaluate your health and to discuss your surgical goals and expectations. Your doctor will then decide on the surgical method that works best for you. He or she might suggest additional procedures — such as a brow lift, eyelid surgery or skin resurfacing — that might help give you the results you desire.

Your face will be examined and measured, and you might have photographs taken so that you can compare your appearance before and after surgery.

During the procedure

A neck lift can be done with sedation and local anesthesia, in which only part of your body feels numb, or under general anesthesia.

Liposuction is the most commonly used procedure. The surgeon makes a tiny incision behind each ear and under the chin. Specialized equipment suctions fat from the jaw line and beneath the chin. If your skin is resilient and the only reason for your dissatisfaction with your neck's appearance is fullness due to fat, liposuction can give you a more defined neck.

Liposuction, however, won't correct structural problems that contribute to your neck's appearance. Your doctor will discuss the type of surgery that will work best for you, depending on several factors, including your desired outcome, cost and what's causing your dissatisfaction with your neck.

After the procedure

After a neck lift, you're likely to have swelling and bruising.

You might need to wear a special garment that compresses your neck and helps reduce swelling. You'll also need to keep your head elevated above your heart and to keep it straight. Don't twist or bend your neck.