.png)
Necklift
The neck often shows signs of aging sooner than the face due to the thin texture of the skin and the fact that many people forget about this area when applying skin care and sun protection. If you are bothered by sagging skin, prominent neck bands, excess submental (under the chin) fat or reduced jawline definition, these concerns can be addressed through neck lift surgery with Dr. Kim Meathrel, Plastic Surgeon & Medical Director of Bespoke Skin MD.
What Is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline. It is typically performed on individuals who have sagging skin, excess fat and/or wrinkles in the neck area. The goal of the surgery is to create a smoother, firmer and more youthful appearance in the neck and jawline.
What Are the Benefits of a Neck Lift?
A well-planned neck lift can refine the contours of the neck in ways that nonsurgical treatments cannot, especially when laxity or muscle banding is advanced.
When performed by an experienced surgeon such as Dr. Meathrel, a neck lift can:
-
Tighten loose or sagging skin along the neck and under the chin
-
Reduce the appearance of vertical platysmal bands
-
Remove excess fat that contributes to a "double chin"
-
Restore a defined angle between the jaw and the neck
-
Smooth horizontal neck creases and improve overall contour
-
Correct the appearance commonly described as "turkey neck"
The Bespoke Approach to Neck Lift Surgery
A neck lift is a technically demanding procedure, and the outcome depends on how the tissue is supported and allowed to heal. When performing this surgery, Dr. Kim Meathrel focuses on the deep, structural layers of the neck, particularly the platysma muscle, rather than using the tension of the skin to keep the neck smooth and lifted. Working in these deeper layers allows the result to look more natural and avoids the risk of a tight and overcorrected appearance that can arise from a poorly planned procedure.
When Dr. Meathrel chooses the neck lift technique, she uses a long-view approach. She wants to come alongside her patients as they age, and uses methods that will continue to look natural and balanced even as the skin continues to mature over the next decade or longer.
Meet Dr. Meathrel
Dr. Kim Meathrel has served Kingston since 2006. She combines world-class expertise with a sophisticated aesthetic eye, integrity, restraint and respect for each patient's unique identity.
"I aim to ensure that every intervention enhances who you already are and supports how you live. Your face, body and confidence are not replaceable."
-
Certified Plastic Surgeon by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
-
Undergraduate — BSc (Biology), Queen's University, Kingston
-
Medical School — MD, Queen's University, Kingston
-
Residency — Plastic Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton
-
Burn Trauma Fellowship — Ross Tilley Burn Centre, Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto
-
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery — Mentorship under Dr. Lloyd Carlsen, Toronto
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?
An ideal candidate for a neck lift is typically someone who is in good overall health and has realistic expectations about the procedure's results. The following are the characteristics of an ideal candidate:
Specific Concerns
Neck lift candidates are usually individuals who:
-
Have loose or sagging neck skin (“turkey neck”)
-
Have stubborn fat under their chin
-
Have prominent vertical neck bands
-
Have deep wrinkles or creases in the neck
-
Have lost jawline definition
Age
Most people who seek neck lift surgery are between the ages of 40 and 70. There is no upper age limit provided you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. Individuals who have genetic predisposition to neck laxity or excess submental (under the chin) fat may consider the procedure at a younger age.
Physical Health
Any cosmetic surgery candidate should be in good physical health. You should have no major medical conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery. If you do have a health condition, it should be well under control.
Skin Elasticity
Patients with good skin elasticity achieve the best outcomes from neck lift surgery. The results are typically smoother and more resilient. Skin quality may be linked with age, but older individuals can still be candidates if they have maintained good skin health.
Realistic Expectations
An ideal neck lift candidate has realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. A neck lift restores a smoother and more defined neck contour, but it will not stop the aging process.
Non-Smoker
Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and interfere with the healing process. Non-smokers are ideal candidates. If you do smoke, you must be willing to quit for several weeks before and after the procedure.
Stable Mental and Emotional Health
Patients should also have good mental health and a positive outlook. We have a registered psychotherapist, Katherine Kennedy, within the clinic who gives patients support before and after the surgery.
It is important to note that a neck lift may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients who have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications may not be good candidates for the surgery.
Different Types of Neck Lifts
-
Traditional neck lift: This technique involves making incisions behind the ears and under the chin to remove excess skin, tighten muscles and reposition remaining tissue for a more youthful appearance.
-
Minimal incision neck lift: This technique involves making small incisions behind the ears and under the chin to remove excess skin and tighten muscles.
-
Neck liposuction: This technique involves removing excess fat from the neck through small incisions using a suction device.
-
Neck lift with platysmaplasty: This technique involves tightening the muscles in the neck to improve contour and reduce the appearance of sagging.
Neck Lift Techniques
The procedure may involve several techniques depending on the patient's individual needs and the surgeon's approach. Some common techniques used in a neck lift include:
-
Platysmaplasty: This involves tightening the muscles in the neck to create a smoother, more defined contour.
-
Cervicoplasty: This involves removing excess skin from the neck to create a more youthful appearance.
What to Expect From Neck Lift Surgery With Dr. Meathrel
Consultation
During your consultation with Dr. Meathrel, she will examine the structure of your neck and jawline and explain which techniques will be most appropriate for your anatomy. You will leave with a clear understanding of the surgery and the steps involved before, during and after surgery. Dr. Meathrel is always happy to answer any questions you have.
Preparation
Preparation for a neck lift will begin several weeks before the procedure. Any nicotine use needs to stop one month prior to surgery. Two weeks before your surgery, stop taking any medications and supplements that increase bleeding risk. Dr. Meathrel will give you a list of these medications during your consultation. You will have a pre-operative appointment where paperwork is finalized, and pictures are taken of the surgical area. The goal is for you to feel completely prepared once the day of your surgery arrives.
Procedure
On the day of your surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia while the surgery is performed. You will be in surgery for around two to three hours. Dr. Meathrel will place incisions in hidden areas, including behind the ears and along the hairline. Sometimes an incision is needed in the crease under the chin. These incisions allow access for tightening the platysma muscle and removing excess fat and skin.
What Is Recovery Like After a Neck Lift?
The downtime for a neck lift can vary depending on the specific techniques used, the patient's individual healing process and the extent of the procedure. Generally, most people can expect to resume normal activities within two to three weeks. Full recovery may take several months. Below is a detailed timeline of what to expect during the healing process.
Immediately After Surgery (Days 1-3)
-
Expect some swelling, bruising and discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
-
The incision sites may be sore and tender.
-
Bandages are applied to reduce swelling and fluid buildup.
-
Rest with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
-
Light activities are allowed, but avoid anything strenuous.
First Week (Days 4-7)
-
Bruising and swelling are still present but should begin to ease.
-
Sutures may be removed around the seven-day mark.
-
Any discomfort at this stage is typically well controlled with prescribed medication.
-
Gentle walks help promote healthy circulation.
-
Avoid alcohol and nicotine, both of which can slow healing.
Second Week (Days 8-14)
-
Visible bruising and swelling continue to fade.
-
Many patients feel ready to handle light daily tasks and short outings, or even to return to desk work.
-
Concealer or makeup can be used to cover any remaining discolouration.
-
You may still notice areas of numbness, tingling or tightness near the incision sites.
Third to Fourth Week (Days 15-30)
-
By now, most bruising and swelling has cleared. The neck starts to look more like the final result.
-
Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social engagements.
-
Continue to avoid exercise, lifting and anything that raises blood pressure.
Beyond One Month (Weeks 5-12)
-
Any lingering swelling gradually resolves, and the contours of the neck and jawline continue to refine.
-
Incision lines progressively fade. Full maturation of scars can take up to one year.
-
Normal activity levels can resume, including vigorous exercise, once Dr. Meathrel gives clearance.
It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Meathrel, including keeping the head elevated, taking pain medication as directed and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, which can impede the healing process.
It is also important to note that while the majority of the swelling and bruising should resolve within a few weeks, it can take several months for the final results of the neck lift to fully develop. Prepare for a gradual recovery process and be patient with your results.
What Results Can a Neck Lift Achieve?
At Bespoke Skin MD, Dr. Meathrel wants her patients to still look like themselves and specializes in results that look natural. After your surgery, you shouldn't look different; you should look refreshed. One of the best compliments a patient of Dr. Meathrel can receive is a loved one who knows they look great, but can't pinpoint why.
Your neck should look natural in all positions and circumstances, in movement and at rest, and the results should age well. A typical neck lift will soften vertical banding and create a sharper angle between the neck and jawline, with reduced submental fat and less excess skin.
Are There Alternatives to Neck Lift Surgery?
Nonsurgical treatments can address early or moderate changes in the neck. While not a substitute for a neck lift in those with more severe signs of aging, they can delay surgery or complement surgical outcomes.
-
Lipodissolve: This is an injectable treatment that is used to reduce submental fullness or the appearance of a double chin.
-
FaceTite: A minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to contour and tighten the skin on the face and neck. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat the tissue beneath the skin, stimulating collagen production and causing the skin to contract and tighten.
-
Plexr Plasma Pen: A nonsurgical skin tightening treatment that uses plasma energy to target the superficial layers of the skin. It works by creating small wounds on the skin's surface, which stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibres. This can help to tighten and lift the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
-
Nonsurgical skin tightening: This involves using treatments such as Morpheus 8 radiofrequency or Fotona laser to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin without surgery.
-
Botox: Botox injections can be used to relax the muscles in the neck and improve the appearance of platysma bands.
-
Dermal fillers: Dermal fillers can be used to add volume to the neck and jawline and improve the appearance of sagging skin.
Can I Combine a Neck Lift With Other Procedures?
Neck lift procedures can be combined with other surgeries or treatments to address multiple areas at once or to create more balance between the neck and other features. Neck lifts are often combined with facelift surgery. By doing both surgeries at the same time, you reduce the time spent under general anesthesia and combine two recovery periods into one.
It is also common for a neck lift to be performed alongside liposuction or fat grafting to restore volume where needed or to take away excess fat from areas outside of the scope of the neck lift. Skin resurfacing may be included to address crepey skin or to treat dark spots and other types of hyperpigmentation on the neck and face.
Book Your Neck Lift Consultation in Kingston
A neck lift can give you a smooth profile that looks like you, but more refreshed and refined. In experienced hands, this surgery can provide results that still look good years down the road. To request a consultation with Ontario plastic surgeon Dr. Kim Meathrel, book online or contact Bespoke Skin MD at 613-549-7546.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Lift Surgery
How long will my neck lift results last?
The longevity of neck lift results depends on the skill of the surgeon, your genetics and the maintenance steps you take after the surgery. In general, a neck lift can last seven to ten years or longer. Natural aging will still occur after the surgery, but the area will remain more lifted and smooth than it would have with no surgery at all. The best way to preserve your results is to continue caring for your skin. Use sunscreen on your neck and don't forget your neck skin during your skincare routine.
Will my neck lift scars be visible?
Incision placement is one of the most important technical decisions during a neck lift, and Dr. Meathrel chooses placement with care. The lines sit in natural folds and in the hairline where they will be obscured. Early in the healing process, the scars will be more noticeable. As they mature, the colour will change to something closer to your natural skin colour. Eventually, it will be difficult to tell that they are there without looking for them.
What are the potential risks of neck lift surgery?
Possible risks from this surgery include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, delayed wound healing and reactions to anesthesia. You will learn more about these surgical risks and more during your consultation. You can reduce the risk of complications by choosing an experienced surgeon and following all of your pre and post-surgery instructions.
When should I get a neck lift?
There is no specific age for neck lift surgery. Instead, Dr. Meathrel considers factors like skin quality, degree of sagging, patient health and the goals of the patient. If an individual has more severe skin sagging and laxity and is in good health, these are much more important considerations than age by itself. Most neck lifts are performed between the ages of 40 and 60.