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Neck Lift

Lower Rhytidectomy

Could your profile use a lift? A neck lift refines the jawline, restores definition, and rejuvenates your overall facial balance for a firmer, more youthful contour.

Neck lift — Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery
When to Consider a Neck Lift

Could Your Profile Use a Lift?

As we age, gravity, genetics, and environmental exposure take a toll on the delicate skin around the neck and jawline. You may notice sagging skin, vertical banding, fullness under the chin, or the dreaded "turkey neck" effect — all of which can make you appear older than you feel.

A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, addresses loose skin, excess fat, and weakened muscles in the lower face and neck. It refines your jawline, restores definition, and rejuvenates your overall facial balance — giving you a firmer, more sculpted, youthful neck contour.

At the Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery Center in Aliso Viejo, Dr. Ernest B. Robinson — a Board-Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon — combines advanced techniques with artistic precision. Patients from Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo and across Orange County trust him for personalized care and outstanding outcomes.

What It Can Address

Concerns a Neck Lift Can Correct

Loose, sagging skin around the neck

Vertical muscle banding (platysmal bands)

Fullness or excess fat beneath the chin

The "turkey neck" effect of lax skin and muscle

Weakened, separated platysma muscles

An undefined or aging jawline

01Consultation

Communicating Your Goals for This Procedure

Every neck lift begins with a detailed consultation designed to align your aesthetic goals with realistic expectations. Dr. Robinson carefully evaluates the structure of your neck, jawline, and facial profile to determine the best surgical approach for your unique anatomy.

You'll have the opportunity to share what bothers you most — loose skin, excess fat under the chin, or visible muscle bands — and Dr. Robinson will explain your options clearly, discuss potential results, and answer questions about recovery or complementary procedures.

  • Detailed evaluation of your neck, jawline, and facial profile
  • Discussion of what bothers you most about your neckline
  • Clear explanation of options and potential results
  • A surgical approach tailored to your unique anatomy
  • Honest, realistic expectations set from the start
For a balanced, harmonious rejuvenation, many patients combine a neck lift with a facelift, chin implant, or eyelid surgery. Dr. Robinson may also recommend non-surgical treatments such as laser skin tightening or injectable fillers to enhance results and improve skin texture.
02Surgical Technique

Surgical Techniques to Achieve Your Desired Outcome

Dr. Robinson performs neck lift surgery at Pacific Hills Surgery Center using local or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and comfort. The entire procedure typically takes two to three hours, and patients return home the same day.

1

Anesthesia & Duration

Performed at Pacific Hills Surgery Center under local or general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes two to three hours, with same-day discharge.

2

Discreet Incisions

Small, discreet incisions are made behind the ears and sometimes beneath the chin to access the underlying tissue and muscle.

3

Muscle Tightening & Fat Refinement

Dr. Robinson tightens the underlying platysma muscles, removes or repositions fat deposits, and trims excess skin. In some cases, liposuction refines the jawline and removes stubborn fat.

4

Redrape & Close

Once the tissues are sculpted and repositioned, the skin is gently redraped and sutured for a smooth, firm, natural-looking result.

03Recovery

Recuperating After Your Neck Lift

Following your neck lift, expect mild swelling, bruising, and tightness around the neck and jawline — all temporary and part of normal healing. Dr. Robinson will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and comfort. Pain is usually minimal and easily managed with prescribed medication.

Keep Head ElevatedRest with your head elevated to minimize swelling and aid healing.
Compression GarmentWear a soft compression garment to reduce swelling and support contours.
Avoid Neck TwistingDon't twist or bend the neck while the area heals.
Pain ManagementDiscomfort is usually minimal and managed with prescribed medication.
First Few Days

Mild swelling, bruising and tightness are normal. Keep your head elevated and wear the compression garment as directed.

Day 10–14

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light activities.

Several Weeks

Full recovery progresses. As swelling subsides, your refined neckline and jawline become more visible.

Several Months

Results continue to improve as residual swelling fully resolves, revealing a smoother, sculpted profile.

04Results

Expected Results from This Procedure

After your neck lift, you'll notice a dramatic improvement in the definition of your chin and jawline. Loose, sagging skin is replaced with a firmer, more youthful contour that can make you look years younger. The incisions are discreetly hidden behind the ears and under the chin, and they fade beautifully over time — with results that continue to improve for several months as residual swelling resolves.

  • Dramatic improvement in chin and jawline definition
  • A firmer, more youthful neck contour
  • Incisions discreetly hidden behind the ears and under the chin
  • Scars that fade beautifully over time
  • Results that keep improving for several months
  • Long-lasting profile with good skincare and sun protection
2–3 Hours
Typical procedure duration, with same-day discharge
10–14 Days
Return to work and light activities
Long-Lasting
Enjoy your rejuvenated profile for many years

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Contact Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery in Aliso Viejo to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Robinson.