A common misconception is that a facelift simultaneously addresses the neck and chin areas. However, a facelift on its own typically only focuses on the mid- to lower-face, including the cheeks and jawline. A neck lift, on the other hand, specifically targets the neck and submental area under the chin.
That said, a facelift and neck lift are often combined together to achieve the best of both worlds. Here, Dr. Ezzat explains some of the surgical differences between a neck lift and a facelift, as well as the ideal candidates for both procedures.
Neck Lift vs. Facelift: What’s the Difference?
A facelift targets the mid- to lower-face areas, including the cheeks, jowls and nasolabial folds, or creases around the mouth and nose. This procedure involves lifting and tightening underlying muscles, removing excess skin and repositioning facial tissues to achieve a firmer, more youthful appearance.
A neck lift targets the neck and under-chin areas, addressing loose, sagging skin, stubborn fat and muscle banding on the neck. This procedure involves removing excess skin, tightening neck muscles and sometimes liposuction to refine the neck and jawline.
While recovery can be similar after either a facelift or neck lift, a facelift typically involves a more detailed surgical procedure than a neck lift, often making the recovery period slightly longer.
When to Consider a Neck Lift
A neck lift on its own could be right for you if your primary concerns are in the neck and under-chin areas, such as:
- Loose or sagging skin that creates a “turkey neck” appearance.
- Loose skin or fat under your chin.
- Visible muscle banding on your neck.
- A poorly defined jawline.
When to Consider a Facelift
A face lift on its own could be right for you if you primary concerns are in your mid- to lower-face, such as:
- Sagging skin or deep creases around your mouth and nose.
- Loss of muscle tone, creating jowls.
- Volume loss or sagging skin in your cheek area.
- Overall facial laxity that makes you look older than you feel.
When to Consider Combining a Neck Lift and Facelift
When combined, a facelift and neck lift can address signs of aging in the lower face, neck and chin areas to achieve a more comprehensive result. This combination procedure can be beneficial if you have significant signs of aging in both the face and neck, want comprehensive facial rejuvenation with a balanced appearance or are looking to address multiple concerns in a single surgical session, minimizing overall recovery time.
Many of Dr. Ezzat’s patients find that combining a facelift and neck lift helps to create a smoother, more seamless final result where both the face and neck appear naturally youthful and rejuvenated. If you are thinking about getting a facelift, neck lift or combination procedure, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ezzat to discuss your specific goals, assess your facial anatomy and create a customized treatment plan.
To schedule your consultation, easily get in touch with us online or call our Boston office at 857-350-4205.
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Author: Dr. Waleed Ezzat
Dr. Waleed Ezzat is double board-certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology/head and neck surgery. At the Boston Center for Facial Plastics, he specializes in face, head and neck reconstructive procedures, congenital and traumatic deformities, and skin or tissue abnormalities resulting from a previous surgery or illness.
