Op. Dr. Zafer Atakan | Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist

Neck Lift Istanbul

Neck Lift Istanbul

Facial surgery · Patient information

Content owner: Dr. Zafer Atakan Practice · Nişantaşı, Istanbul · Updated: July 11, 2026

A neck lift aims to correct laxity of the neck skin, platysma muscle bands and the submental contour with personalized surgery. Liposuction only reduces excess fat; on its own, it may not be sufficient for significant skin and muscle laxity.

What Is a Neck Lift?

The appearance of the neck is affected by skin quality, jawbone support, submental fat, the salivary glands and the structure of the platysma muscle. Each of these components may require different treatment.

A neck lift can be planned together with a facelift or, in selected patients, on its own. If the chin is receding, tightening the neck tissues alone may not achieve profile balance.

Who May Be a Candidate?

  • People with neck skin laxity, vertical muscle bands or loss of jawline definition
  • Adults with a stable weight and general health suitable for surgery
  • People who understand the difference between liposuction and a lift procedure
  • People who accept that smoking increases the risk to tissue circulation and wound healing

What is assessed during the examination?

Assessment 1
The depth of submental fat, skin elasticity, platysmal bands, the jawbone and the face–neck transition are examined.
Assessment 2
Suspicion of a thyroid or neck mass, swallowing complaints and previous neck surgeries are reviewed.
Assessment 3
The scope of combinations of liposuction, platysma repair, skin tightening and facelift is explained.
Assessment 4
Incision sites, the possibility of drains, compression garments and the follow-up schedule are determined individually.

How Does the Process Work?

  1. If necessary, fat and platysma structures are corrected through a small incision under the chin.
  2. With incisions extending around the ears, the neck skin and deep tissues can be repositioned.
  3. Excess skin is removed without tension; the scope of the technique varies according to the condition of the facial tissues.

Recovery and follow-up

Swelling, bruising, tightness in the neck and temporary numbness may occur. Head and neck positioning, compression garments, activity and showering recommendations are followed according to the plan provided. Shortness of breath, rapidly increasing neck swelling or difficulty swallowing require urgent assessment.

Expected results and limitations

The goal is not to make the neck look overly tight, but to make the jaw–neck transition more defined in a natural way. Aging and weight changes affect the result over time.

Alternatives and complementary options

For limited excess fat, liposuction; for mild skin changes, energy-based methods; or chin support may be considered. These options do not correct significant skin and platysma laxity to the same extent as surgery.

Possible risks and complications

  • Bleeding or hematoma, infection, seroma and wound healing problems
  • Impaired skin circulation, visible scarring and changes in the hairline
  • Temporary or, rarely, permanent change in lower lip movement due to nerve involvement
  • Asymmetry, contour irregularity, persistent bands or the need for revision

Frequently asked questions

Is a neck lift the same as double chin liposuction?

No. Liposuction reduces fat tissue; a neck lift can provide a broader anatomical correction, including the skin and platysma.

Can a neck lift be done separately from a facelift?

It can be done in a suitable patient. Evaluating the face and neck tissues together is important for a natural transition.

Where is the neck lift scar?

Depending on the scope, incisions may be planned under the chin and around the ears; scar quality depends on individual healing.

Does losing weight fix neck sagging?

It can reduce the amount of fat; significant skin and muscle laxity may not be completely corrected by weight loss.

This content is for general information. The surgical decision is made after an in-person examination, medical history and the necessary tests.

Book an Appointment Contact