As people age, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun, and the stresses of daily life can be seen in their faces. Folds and fat deposits appear around the neck. Although surgery cannot stop the aging process, a neck lift is used to correct sagging or lax skin on the neck as well as the appearance of a "double chin". Such procedure improves the most visible signs of aging by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin of the neck. Because each person has different requirements for this procedure, necklift surgery may differ from one individual to another.

This operation is done through a small chin incision, or if needed, an incision around or behind the ears. This procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia. The incisions are made so they are as inconspicuous as possible. Improvements are made beneath the skin and on the deep muscles. The skin and muscle are then tightened to give a refreshed, more youthful appearance.

After surgery, there will be some temporary swelling and discoloration that may involve the lower portions of the face. There may also be numbness of the chin for a few days. The stitches will be removed one to two weeks after the operation.

Every surgical procedure involves a certain amount of risk and it is important that you understand the risks involved with necklift. An individual's choice to undergo a surgical procedure is based on the comparison of the risk to potential benefit. Although the majority of patients do not experience complications from this surgery, you should discuss each of them with your surgeon to make sure you understand the risks, potential complications, and benefits of necklift.