Facelift or Neck Lift? How to Know Which Is Right for You
As time passes, the natural aging process begins to affect both the face and the neck. Skin loses elasticity, muscles weaken, and fat deposits shift, creating sagging jowls, loose skin, and deepened lines. For many patients, this leads to an important question: do I need a facelift, a neck lift, or both?
Understanding the differences between these procedures and what they can achieve will help you make the best choice for your goals.
What a Facelift Addresses
A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, focuses on improving the mid-to-lower face. It repositions sagging cheeks, softens deep smile lines, and reduces jowls that blur the jawline. At Spalding Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, Dr. Paul Nassif has refined his facelift techniques to deliver natural, youthful results that never appear pulled or overdone.
During surgery, incisions are carefully hidden around the hairline and ear. The underlying muscles and tissues are lifted and tightened, while excess skin is removed. The result is a smoother jawline, restored cheek volume, and an overall younger, refreshed facial appearance.
Patients who notice hollowness beneath the eyes, sagging cheeks, and downturned corners of the mouth are often best suited for facelift surgery.
What a Neck Lift Addresses
A neck lift, or submental lipectomy, is designed to restore definition and contour to the neck and under-chin area. With age, the platysma muscle can loosen, fat may accumulate beneath the chin, and skin begins to droop, creating the look of a “turkey neck” or double chin.
Dr. David Amron, a board-certified dermatologic surgeon specializing in body contouring and facial procedures, has extensive experience performing neck lifts. He combines liposuction techniques with tightening of the underlying muscles and removal of excess skin to create a smoother, firmer neckline.
Patients who are primarily concerned about sagging skin, fullness, or banding of the neck without significant facial aging may benefit most from a neck lift.
When Both Procedures Are Combined
In many cases, facial and neck aging occur together. Performing a facelift without addressing the neck can leave results looking incomplete, just as tightening only the neck without lifting the face may create imbalance.
That’s why many patients choose to combine both procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation. A facelift and neck lift performed together restore harmony between the face and neck, achieving results that are both natural and long-lasting.
Which Is Right for You?
The decision depends on where you see the most changes:
- Mid-face and jawline aging: A facelift is likely the better choice.
- Neck sagging, fullness, or banding: A neck lift may provide the improvement you want.
- Both areas affected: Combining the procedures is often the most effective solution.
During your consultation at Spalding Plastic Surgery, Dr. Nassif and Dr. Amron will carefully evaluate your features, discuss your goals, and recommend a personalized plan that enhances your appearance while maintaining a natural look.
The Spalding Difference
Choosing between a facelift and neck lift doesn’t have to be complicated. With the guidance of world-renowned specialists at Spalding Plastic Surgery, you can feel confident knowing your procedure will be tailored to your needs.
Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Paul Nassif or Dr. David Amron in Beverly Hills to learn which option is right for you.