Neck Lift

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Tampa and Lakeland, FL

A neck lift is frequently performed alongside a facelift to refine the jawline and facial profile. This procedure targets the submental area, removing excess skin and fat while reinforcing underlying neck muscles. By addressing concerns such as muscle banding, sagging jowls, and the “turkey neck” effect, the surgery restores definition lost to diminished skin elasticity and muscle tone.

At Finer You in Lakeland, Florida, Dr. Jacob Gerzenshtein is a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who has built a world-class practice and stellar reputation delivering long-lasting, natural-looking aesthetic rejuvenations. With every neck lift he performs, Dr. Gerzenshtein helps patients achieve a more youthful, contoured neck and jawline that enhances their overall appearance.

To explore your options for a neck lift, submit our online contact form or call (863) 647-2200 to schedule a personal consultation.

About Neck Lifts

A neck lift tightens the platysma muscle, removes redundant skin, and refines the transition between the chin, neck, and jawline. (1) The skin on the neck is thin and highly susceptible to the effects of aging, gravity, and genetics, often showing signs of aging earlier than other parts of the body. Common complaints include loose skin gathering under the chin, vertical muscle banding, or a weak jawline that disrupts overall facial balance and definition. While nonsurgical treatments can offer subtle or temporary improvements, a neck lift addresses the underlying causes—such as skin laxity and muscle separation—to achieve visible, long-lasting results that restore smooth, refined contours between the chin and collarbone.

Neck Lift Techniques

Dr. Gerzenshtein utilizes a comprehensive neck lift technique that he tailors to each patient’s specific circumstances to support optimal surgical results. This approach addresses moderate to advanced signs of aging, including loose skin, stubborn fat deposits, and muscle banding, through discreet incisions typically behind the ears and beneath the chin. The procedure involves the removal of excess fat (often through liposuction), the tightening of weakened neck muscles (platysmaplasty) (2) to eliminate vertical banding, and the removal of excess skin. This combined strategy ensures a more defined jawline and a youthful rejuvenation.

Benefits

A neck lift offers advantages that can improve both aesthetic appearance and self-confidence. Patients who undergo a neck lift can experience:

  • Improved Definition and Contour: A neck lift elevates and tightens the skin, tissues, and muscles in the neck, creating a more toned, contoured appearance.
  • Enhanced Jawline Clarity: By removing excess skin and fat and tightening underlying structures, the procedure creates a sharper, more defined transition between the chin, neck, and jawline.
  • Smoother Appearance: The reduction of sagging or loose skin and the smoothing of vertical neck bands results in a more youthful and refreshed profile.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Unlike temporary solutions, a surgical neck lift provides enduring outcomes that can last for years with proper maintenance.
  • Elevated Self-Confidence: Addressing aesthetic concerns in the neck can improve a patient’s self-esteem and body positivity.

Candidates

Potential candidates for a neck lift are unhappy with the appearance of their neck and jawline due to visible signs of aging. Typical concerns include:

  • Noticeable skin laxity or sagging under the chin and along the neck.
  • Vertical neck muscle banding or the appearance of a “turkey wattle.”
  • Stubborn fat pockets beneath the chin (submental fat).

To qualify, patients should be in overall good health, maintain a stable body weight, and not smoke or be willing to quit nicotine for an extended period before and after surgery. Candidates should also hold realistic expectations for surgical outcomes. Dr. Gerzenshtein will confirm your candidacy during the personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

During this comprehensive meeting, Dr. Gerzenshtein reviews your medical history, hears your aesthetic concerns and goals, and carefully evaluates the structure and skin quality of your neck and lower face. His detailed assessment helps to clarify the changes you hope to achieve and identify the most suitable approach. Dr. Gerzenshtein will explain his advised surgical technique for your case, outline your recovery time, and discuss realistic outcomes. He encourages you to ask questions and gain full clarity so you can move forward with your personalized treatment plan feeling confident and prepared.

To schedule your personal consultation, call our Lakeland office at (863) 647-2200 or submit our online contact form.

Preparation

Careful preparation before your neck lift procedure supports a safe surgical experience and smoother healing. Dr. Gerzenshtein provides all patients with individualized, detailed pre-operative instructions.

Key preparation steps typically include:

  • Avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements in the weeks leading up to surgery.
  • Quitting nicotine use 4-6 weeks prior to the procedure (if applicable).
  • Abstaining from alcohol use for at least a week before surgery.
  • Filling all necessary prescriptions in advance.
  • Scheduling time off from work and other physical commitments.
  • Arranging personal transportation and assistance for the day of your surgery and 1-2 days of early recovery.
  • Preparing a comfortable, well-stocked recovery space.

Procedure

Dr. Gerzenshtein performs each neck lift as an outpatient procedure at an accredited surgical center. You will receive the appropriate anesthesia to keep you comfortable, and Dr. Gerzenshtein will start by making precise, discreet incisions around the natural curvature behind your ears and beneath your chin. Through these access points, he will:

  • Address Fat Deposits: If necessary, he will perform neck liposuction to remove excess fat from beneath the chin and along the jawline.
  • Tighten Musculature: He will access the deeper layers of the neck to tighten the platysma muscle and reduce the appearance of vertical neck banding.
  • Redrape Skin: He will then lift and tighten the neck skin, removing any excess to achieve a smoother, more streamlined contour.

Finally, Dr. Gerzenshtein closes the incisions with fine sutures to promote optimal healing and minimize visible scarring. After a brief post-surgical observation, we will release you to recover and rest at home.

Recovery

Most patients experience some level of swelling, bruising, and mild tightness around the treatment area during initial recovery. You can manage any discomfort with prescribed medication. You must elevate your head, even while sleeping, to minimize swelling and support healing. You will also wear any bandages or compression garments as instructed to protect incision sites and maintain the new contours. Most patients can return to light activities and desk work within one to two weeks. You must avoid more strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks longer, or until Dr. Gerzenshtein gives clearance. Attend all follow-up appointments so Dr. Gerzenshtein can monitor your healing progress and answer any questions you may have.

Results

The results of your neck lift will develop gradually as the tissues heal and settle into their new position. Once residual swelling diminishes, patients observe a firmer, smoother neck, improved jawline definition, and a more youthful appearance. The goal is to enhance structural support and create cleaner lines without altering your natural features. The results of your neck lift can last for many years with proper care and weight maintenance.

Corresponding Procedures

Due to the interconnected structures of the face and neck, patients frequently undergo a neck lift in tandem with other facial procedures to achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Gerzenshtein discusses all appropriate combination options during your personal consultation.

Some effective additions include:

  • Facelift: The neck lift is a common addition to a facelift to address signs of aging in both the lower face and neck, creating a cohesive, overall lifted appearance. Combining these procedures can enhance the restorative effects across the lower face and neck and often benefits patients with sagging in multiple areas.
  • Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Upper and lower eyelid surgery removes sagging or loose skin around the eyelids, creating a more youthful, alert appearance that enhances overall facial harmony.
  • Brow Lift: A brow lift elevates drooping eyebrows and smooths forehead wrinkles, providing a more refreshed and alert appearance to the upper face. Pairing a brow lift with a neck lift helps achieve a balanced rejuvenation of the entire face.

Cost of a Neck Lift in Tampa Bay

The cost of a neck lift varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the specific surgical techniques, and whether you choose to include any corresponding or combination procedures. Dr. Gerzenshtein will provide you with a detailed cost outline along with your treatment plan during your private consultation.

Schedule a consultation today to explore your neck lift options. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Lakeland office directly at (863) 647-2200.

FAQ

Are the results of a neck lift permanent?

Results are long-lasting, though natural aging continues. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle helps preserve the outcomes for many years.

Will a neck lift leave visible scarring?

Because Dr. Gerzenshtein places the incisions in discreet, minimally visible spots, the scars will blend and naturally fade over time.

Can a neck lift fix a double chin?

Yes, neck lift surgery may incorporate submental liposuction to remove stubborn fat beneath the chin, yielding a slimmer, more defined profile.

References

  1. Pérez P, Hohman MH. Neck Rejuvenation. [Updated 2023 Sep 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562229/
  2. Alexander L, Patel BC. Platysmaplasty Facelift(Archived) [Updated 2023 Sep 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563291/