A consultation room at the clinic, with a treatment chair beside a curtained window

Neck Lift

Neck Lift in Brussels · Dr Axel De Lange

A neck lift restores firmness to the neck and redefines the transition between the chin and the décolleté, for a naturally rejuvenated appearance.

A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to correct laxity of the skin and muscles of the neck, which causes loss of definition of the cervicomental angle and the appearance of platysmal bands.

It relies on retightening the deep structures of the neck, in particular the platysma muscle, combined with repositioning the skin without excessive tension.

Depending on the anatomy, excess fat under the chin may be corrected to refine the profile and restore a harmonious transition between the chin and the neck.

The goalTo redefine the cervicomental angle, correct neck laxity and restore a sharper, natural and elegant profile.

A neck lift is intended for women and men with loose skin on the neck, loss of definition of the cervicomental angle, visible platysmal bands or excess fat under the chin.

It is particularly suitable when the neck has aged more noticeably than the face, or when the patient wishes to improve their profile without necessarily undergoing a full facelift.

The best candidates are in good general health and have realistic expectations regarding the results and the scars.

To regain a smoother, better-defined neck, restoring harmony to the profile without changing the features of the face.

Medically reviewed by Dr Axel De Lange · Last reviewed

Your journey,
step by step.

The techniques

Platysmaplasty

Retightening and bringing together the platysma muscles to correct neck bands and restore definition to the neck.

The techniques

Lateral neck lift

Repositioning and suspension of the deep tissues of the neck through incisions hidden around the ears.

The techniques

Neck lift with a submental approach

Direct correction of the deep muscle and fat structures when the anatomy requires it.

The techniques

Submental liposuction

Removal of excess fat responsible for a double chin, when skin quality allows good retraction.

The techniques

Combined face and neck lift

Simultaneous treatment of neck laxity and the jawline for a more comprehensive and harmonious result.

Step 01

First consultation

This first meeting is an opportunity to analyse the anatomy of your neck, the quality of your skin, any platysmal bands and the distribution of excess fat.

A thorough clinical examination makes it possible to assess the definition of the cervicomental angle, the position of the deep structures and the options for surgical correction.

We discuss your expectations, the different techniques that could be considered and the results that can be achieved.

To define a personalised surgical strategy, adapted to your anatomy and aimed at restoring a natural and harmonious profile.

Step 02

2nd consultation

This consultation confirms the surgical plan and specifies the chosen surgical technique.

The placement of the scars, the type of anaesthesia, the risks and the post-operative course are explained in detail.

Any additional procedures, in particular submental liposuction or correction of the jawline, are also discussed in order to optimise the harmony of the result.

To allow you to approach your procedure with peace of mind, with a clear understanding of how it will proceed and the expected results.

Step 03 · The procedure

Anaesthesia

General, in most cases.

Step 03 · The procedure

Duration

Generally between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the technique used and any additional procedures.

Step 03 · The procedure

Setting

Performed in the operating theatre, generally as a day case or with one night in hospital.

Step 03 · The procedure

Technique

Retightening of the muscle and skin structures of the neck, in particular the platysma, with correction of excess fat under the chin if needed. The incisions are hidden as much as possible around the ears and, if necessary, under the chin.

Step 03 · The procedure

Recovery

A usual recovery period of 10 to 15 days, with a gradual return to social and professional activities as the swelling and bruising subside.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first days

Rest, scar checks and monitoring for any haematoma. Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness in the neck are common. A dressing or support garment may be recommended depending on the technique used.

Step 04 · Follow-up

The first weeks

Gradual reduction of swelling and bruising. Stitches are removed according to how healing progresses. A return to social and professional activities is generally possible after 10 to 15 days, sometimes longer.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 1 to 2 months

Gradual return to sport, usually after 4 to 6 weeks. The tissues soften, the feeling of tightness eases and the definition of the neck becomes progressively more visible.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 3 to 6 months

Gradual stabilisation of the neck contours, improvement of the cervicomental angle and fading of the scars. The result becomes more representative of the final appearance.

Step 04 · Follow-up

After 6 to 12 months

Assessment of the final result, as the scars continue to mature and the tissues continue to soften. The benefits of a neck lift can last for many years, despite the continuing natural ageing process.

Common question

How does it differ from a face and neck lift?

A neck lift focuses on rejuvenating the neck, correcting skin laxity, platysmal bands and loss of definition of the cervicomental angle. A face and neck lift also treats laxity of the lower face, in particular the cheeks, jowls and jawline. The choice depends on the degree of ageing in each area and on the need to achieve an overall harmonious result.

Common question

How long does the swelling last?

Swelling is generally most pronounced in the first days after a neck lift, then gradually subsides over the first two to three weeks. Slight residual oedema, sometimes with a feeling of tightness or firmness in the neck, may persist for several months. A return to social life is usually possible after 10 to 15 days, while the result continues to refine gradually.

Common question

Will I need to wear anything after the procedure?

Wearing a compression chin strap may be recommended after a neck lift to limit swelling and support the tissues during the first days of healing. How long it is worn varies according to the surgical technique and the surgeon's practice, generally from a few days to two weeks. It is not always necessary, however, and its use is decided for each patient individually.

Common question

Is the result permanent?

The results of a neck lift are generally long-lasting, with an aesthetic benefit that can be maintained for 10 to 15 years, depending on skin quality, the technique used and lifestyle. Natural ageing continues after the procedure, but the neck generally keeps a firmer, better-defined appearance than if it had not been operated on.

Consultation locations

Consultations are booked directly through each clinic's own platform. Appointments are not taken by phone.

See the locations

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