A smooth, well-defined neck and jawline are central to a balanced, youthful appearance. But fullness beneath the chin, sagging skin and muscle laxity in the neck can affect your profile at any age—whether due to aging, genetics or natural anatomy.
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that tightens the underlying muscles, removes excess fat and redrapes loose skin to create a more sculpted, refined neckline. Whether you’re looking to restore definition that’s been lost over time or enhance contours that never fully developed, a neck lift offers powerful, natural-looking results.
What Can a Neck Lift Improve?
- Loose or sagging neck skin
- Muscle banding in the neck (vertical bands)
- Fat accumulation under the chin or jawline
- Jowling or lack of jawline definition
- Blurred transition between the chin and neck
A neck lift can be performed alone or combined with liposuction, chin augmentation or a facelift to enhance overall facial balance and harmony.
How Is a Neck Lift Performed?
Neck lift surgery is typically performed in a surgical center under general anesthesia or deep IV sedation. Dr. Carolyn Montes places small, well-concealed incisions behind the ears and sometimes under the chin.
Through these access points, she:
- Tightens and repositions the neck muscles
- Removes or sculpts excess fat
- Re-drapes and trims the skin to achieve a firmer, more youthful contour
The approach is tailored to each patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, with meticulous attention to symmetry and natural-looking results.
Recovery and Results
- Days 1–3: Expect swelling, tightness and some bruising. You’ll wear a supportive wrap and may have small drains in place temporarily. Mild discomfort is expected and managed with medication.
- Week 1–2: Sutures are removed and swelling and bruising begin to improve. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light activity after 10–14 days.
- Weeks 3–6: The neck and jawline continue to refine. Residual swelling fades, and the area begins to feel more natural.
- 3+ Months: Final results become visible, revealing a more sculpted, youthful neckline with long-lasting improvement.
Dr. Montes provides detailed aftercare instructions to support healing, minimize scarring and maintain your results.
Is a Neck Lift Right for Me?
You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if you:
- Feel bothered by loose neck skin or muscle banding
- Have fullness beneath the chin or along the jawline
- Want a smoother, more refined neck contour
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
Why Choose Dr. Carolyn Montes?
As a facial plastic surgeon with advanced training in both aesthetic and reconstructive techniques, Dr. Carolyn Montes is committed to refined, balanced and true-to-you results. Her deep understanding of facial anatomy and thoughtful, customized approach ensure that your neck lift enhances your natural beauty—not changes who you are.
Ready To Restore or Refine Your Neckline?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Montes to explore whether a neck lift or combination approach is right for you.
Call San Diego ENT at (858) 926-7010 for more information or to schedule an appointment.