Treatment face

Neck Lift Surgery in the UK

Restore a firmer, more defined neckline with a neck lift. This procedure is designed to address sagging skin, excess fat, muscle banding and prominent glands that can cause a ‘turkey neck’ or ‘double chin’ appearance.

If you’re looking to tighten loose skin, reduce stubborn fat and smooth out muscle banding in the neck, a neck lift may be an ideal option. This surgical procedure rejuvenates the neck’s appearance, creating a smoother, firmer and more youthful contour. It’s particularly suited to individuals experiencing sagging skin, fat deposits or weakened neck muscles due to ageing, weight loss or genetics.

At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, we specialise in neck lift procedures. Mr Paul Wilson takes a meticulous, patient-centred approach, ensuring each treatment is tailored to your goals and anatomy.

About

What is neck lift surgery?

As we age, the skin around the neck loses elasticity due to declining collagen and elastin production. Combined with gravity, this results in sagging and a less-defined contour. Fat deposits may also accumulate under the chin with genetics, sun exposure and lifestyle factors accelerating these changes.

A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to help restore a smoother, firmer and more defined neckline. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, neck muscles are tightened, and fat is reduced where needed. Incisions are typically placed behind the ears and beneath the chin. For a more defined jawline, the submandibular glands are also shaved in line with the lower jaw.

benefits

What are the benefits of neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery offers several benefits, including:

candidates

Who is a good candidate for neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery may be suitable for individuals who:

Are in good overall health
Are non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
Are concerned by loose or sagging skin in the neck area
Notice visible neck muscle banding or loss of jawline definition
Have excess fat beneath the chin or along the neck
Have visible or palpable submandibular glands below the angle of the jaw

While many patients consider neck lift surgery, suitability depends on individual factors such as skin quality, genetics, lifestyle and the degree of ageing changes present. A consultation with Mr Paul Wilson will help determine whether a neck lift is the most appropriate option for you.

What to expect

What to expect during neck lift surgery?

Consultation

During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your anatomy, focusing on skin laxity, muscle banding, fat distribution and skin quality. They will review your medical history and discuss your aesthetic goals. They will also explain how a neck lift can restore a firmer, more defined contour.

Depending on the extent of correction needed, a neck lift may be performed alone or combined with complementary procedures such as a deep plane facelift or liposuction. Your surgeon will explain the method, incision placement and what to expect during recovery.

This consultation is your opportunity to ask questions, explore your options and ensure you feel fully informed and confident before proceeding.

Anaesthesia and Procedure Time

Neck lift surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. When carried out on its own, the surgery usually takes around two to three hours and is dependent on the extent of correction required.

If a neck lift is combined with additional procedures, such as a deep plane facelift or liposuction, the overall procedure time may be longer. Your surgeon will confirm the expected duration of your surgery during your consultation, based on your individual treatment plan.

Surgery

Neck lift surgery begins with carefully planned incisions, typically positioned discreetly behind the ears and beneath the chin. These incision sites are selected to allow access to the underlying structures while keeping visible scarring to a minimum.

For patients with visible muscle banding, the platysma muscles are tightened and sutured together to create a smoother, more defined neck contour. In some cases, prominent submandibular glands beneath the jawline may be gently reduced to help refine the angle of the neck.

Excess fat under the chin or along the jawline is then removed using liposuction or direct excision, depending on individual anatomy. Finally, loose skin is carefully redraped and trimmed to reduce sagging while maintaining natural-looking contours and a balanced result.

Closure

Once the surgical work is complete, the skin is carefully re-draped, and incisions are closed with sutures. Temporary drains may be placed to help reduce fluid build-up and support the early stages of healing. A haemostatic net is applied to the neck skin to prevent a haematoma and redrape the skin. A hilotherm device is used post-operatively to cool the soft tissues reducing swelling, bruising and discomfort.

Recovery

Recovery and results of neck lift surgery

Recovery following neck lift surgery varies among individuals and depends on the extent of the procedure.

What to expect

Immediately after surgery, it is normal to experience swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness in the neck area. These effects are most noticeable during the first few days and gradually improve over the following weeks. As swelling settles, improvements in neck contour become increasingly visible.

Compression garments are worn as advised to support healing, reduce swelling, and help optimise results. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including guidance on managing discomfort and caring for the surgical area.

Activity and movement

Light activities and gentle movement are encouraged during the early recovery period. Most patients can return to light daily activities within 1-2 weeks as bruising and swelling begin to diminish. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and activities that significantly raise the heart rate should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon.

By 2-3 weeks, visible improvements in neck contour are often noticeable, and many patients feel comfortable returning to work or social engagements.

Follow-up care and long-term results

Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing and ensure recovery is progressing as expected. Final results continue to refine as swelling fully resolves, with outcomes typically becoming fully visible around 3-6 months after surgery.

Risks & complications

Risks and potential complications of neck lift surgery

As with any surgical procedure, neck lift surgery carries some risks and potential complications. These may include:

Infection
Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
Delayed wound healing
Swelling or fluid build-up (seroma)
Temporary or, rarely, permanent nerve weakness
Changes in skin sensation, including numbness or tingling
Scarring or asymmetry
Adverse reaction to anaesthesia

Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks during your consultation, ensuring you are fully informed before deciding to proceed.

Fees

How much does a neck lift cost?

The cost of neck lift surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is performed alone or combined with another procedure, such as a deep plane facelift.

A personalised quote is provided following your consultation, and your surgeon will discuss all pricing details, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what is included before making any decisions.

Results

Neck lift surgery before and after photos

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a neck lift safe?

Neck lift surgery is generally considered safe when performed by a suitably qualified and experienced surgeon. Before surgery, a detailed consultation and medical assessment are carried out to determine whether you are an appropriate candidate for the procedure. Mr Paul Wilson uses established surgical techniques and follows strict safety protocols to minimise risk.

Is a neck lift painful?

Anaesthesia is used during the procedure to ensure you remain comfortable throughout surgery. After the operation, it is normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort, tightness, swelling, or bruising in the neck area. This is usually well controlled with prescribed pain relief.

Most patients find the recovery period manageable, with discomfort improving significantly during the first week. Your surgeon provides detailed aftercare guidance to help minimise discomfort and support a smooth recovery, with follow-up appointments arranged to monitor healing.

How long after a neck lift will I need to wear compression garments?

Compression garments are typically worn for 1-2 weeks following neck lift surgery, although this may vary depending on your individual procedure and healing progress. The garment helps reduce swelling, supports the neck and helps the skin conform to your neck’s new contours.

In some cases, patients may be advised to continue wearing the garment at night for a longer period. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance on garment use during your recovery.

When will follow-up appointments be scheduled after a neck lift?

Your first follow-up appointment is usually arranged within a few days after surgery to assess early healing and remove any drains if present. Further appointments are scheduled over the following weeks to ensure recovery is progressing as expected. Additional long-term follow-ups may be arranged to review results once healing is complete.

Will I need to repeat the neck lift procedure in the future?

A neck lift provides long-lasting results, but it cannot stop the natural ageing process. Most patients enjoy a rejuvenated appearance for 10 to 15 years before additional treatments might be considered. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding significant weight fluctuations and following appropriate skincare advice can help support long-term results. If necessary, minor touch-ups or non-surgical treatments can help maintain your youthful appearance.

Schedule your consultation

Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics

Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics not only for the team’s surgical expertise, but also for their thoughtful, honest and patient-centred approach to aesthetic care. To get started, book a consultation where our team will discuss your concerns, outline your goals and determine if neck lift surgery is the right option for you.