The neck is one of the first areas to show visible signs of ageing, and one of the most difficult to address through non-surgical means alone. Loose, sagging skin, a softening of the jawline, excess fat beneath the chin, or visible muscle bands running down the neck can add years to a person’s appearance even when the face itself looks relatively youthful.
Neck lift surgery, clinically known as platysmaplasty, is one of the most effective procedures available for restoring a defined, sculpted, and more youthful neckline. It is a procedure that delivers results that look natural, not operated, and that last for years.
This guide from the clinical team at Signature Clinic covers everything you need to know about neck lift surgery before booking your consultation.
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the neck by lifting and repositioning the underlying platysma muscles, removing excess skin, and eliminating excess fat in the neck area.
The result is a cleaner, more defined jawline and neckline, addressing concerns such as a double chin, turkey neck, jowling, or visible muscle banding that runs down the front of the neck.
At Signature Clinic, neck lift surgery is performed under local or general anaesthetic. The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours and is performed as a day case, meaning most patients go home the same day.
What does a neck lift address?
A neck lift at Signature Clinic can address:
- Loose, sagging skin in the neck and under the jaw
- Excess fat beneath the chin creating a double chin appearance
- Visible platysma muscle banding running down the front of the neck
- Loss of jawline definition and jowling along the lower face
- The appearance of a “turkey neck” caused by skin laxity and muscle loosening with age
If you also have concerns about the midface, cheeks, or overall facial sagging alongside your neck concerns, a combined facelift and neck lift may be the most effective option. Your surgeon will advise at your consultation.
The neck lift procedure at Signature Clinic
Step 1, Consultation: Your surgeon assesses skin elasticity, fat distribution, and muscle tone in the neck and lower face, and discusses your goals to create a personalised surgical plan. Book your free consultation here.
Step 2, Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the extent of correction and individual preference. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach.
Step 3, Incision placement: Incisions are placed strategically behind the ears and under the chin to minimise visible scarring. They are positioned discreetly within natural skin folds.
Step 4, Muscle repositioning and skin tightening: The underlying platysma muscles are lifted and repositioned. Excess skin is carefully removed and the remaining skin is sutured smoothly to create a refined contour.
Step 5, Closure and aftercare: Sutures are placed carefully to ensure a smooth contour and minimal scarring. Patients receive comprehensive aftercare guidance to support optimal healing.
Neck lift results, what to expect
Results from neck lift surgery at Signature Clinic are visible immediately, with continued improvement as swelling resolves over the following weeks. Patients consistently report a significantly more defined jawline and neckline, and describe feeling that their overall appearance looks years younger in a way that still looks entirely natural.
Scarring is minimal, hidden behind the ears and under the chin, and fades significantly over time.
Neck lift results are long-lasting. With proper care, results typically last 10-12 years, though natural ageing continues.
Can a neck lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Neck lift surgery is frequently combined with:
Facelift (Rhytidectomy): combining a facelift and neck lift is one of the most popular options at Signature Clinic, addressing the midface and lower face simultaneously with the neck for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. A full facelift combined with a full neck lift is available at Signature Clinic for a fixed price of £9,450.
Neck liposuction: where excess fat beneath the chin is the primary concern rather than skin laxity, neck liposuction alone may be sufficient. Your surgeon will advise on the most appropriate approach at your consultation.
Neck lift recovery
Recovery from neck lift surgery at Signature Clinic is well-supported throughout.
- Weeks 1-2: Mild swelling and bruising are normal. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks depending on activity levels.
- Weeks 2-3: Strenuous exercise should be avoided for two to three weeks.
- Weeks 3-4: Swelling continues to settle and the result becomes more defined.
- Full recovery: Typically three to four weeks, when patients can resume all normal activities.
Signature Clinic provides complimentary out-of-hours aftercare support as standard throughout your recovery.
Neck lift cost UK
At Signature Clinic, the cost of a full neck lift is £5,250. A full neck lift combined with a facelift is available for £9,450. Both prices are fully inclusive with no hidden fees, covering your consultation, the procedure, anaesthesia, and complete aftercare.
GA pricing:
- Neck Lift (GA) — £8,995
- Face & Neck Lift SMAS (GA) — £11,495
As with all GA procedures, the price will be discussed and confirmed following your consultation, covering everything from your procedure to full aftercare, with no hidden fees.
For a no-obligation quote, book a consultation with Signature Clinic today.
Please refer to our pricing page for the most up-to-date figures, as prices may be updated from time to time.
Why choose Signature Clinic for neck lift surgery?
GMC-registered consultant surgeons Every neck lift at Signature Clinic is performed by a named, GMC-registered consultant surgeon. You meet your surgeon at your free consultation.
Local and general anaesthetic options Available under local or general anaesthetic, your surgeon will advise on the most appropriate approach.
10 regulated UK clinic locations Available across London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Dublin, Altrincham, and Marylebone. Find your nearest clinic.
CQC, HIW, and HIS regulated All Signature Clinic locations are independently inspected and regulated.
0% finance available Flexible payment plans available to spread the cost of treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure that lifts and repositions the platysma muscles, removes excess skin, and eliminates excess fat from the neck to create a more defined and youthful neckline.
How much does a neck lift cost in the UK?
At Signature Clinic, a full neck lift costs £5,250. A combined facelift and neck lift is available for £9,450. Both prices are fully inclusive. Please refer to our pricing page for the most up-to-date figures.
Is there an age limit for neck lift surgery?
There is no strict age limit. Most patients are in their 40s to 60s, though the procedure may be appropriate earlier where there is significant skin laxity. Your surgeon will assess suitability at your consultation.
How long does neck lift recovery take?
Most patients return to work within one to two weeks depending on activity levels. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for two to three weeks. Full recovery typically takes three to four weeks.
How much younger will I look after a neck lift?
On average, patients appear up to 10 years younger, depending on initial skin laxity and individual healing.
Can a neck lift be combined with a facelift?
Yes. Combining a facelift and neck lift is one of the most popular combinations at Signature Clinic for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Will a neck lift leave visible scars?
Incisions are placed behind the ears and under the chin, making scars discreet and hidden within natural skin folds. Scarring fades significantly over time.
How long do neck lift results last?
With proper care, results typically last 10-12 years. Natural ageing continues, and significant weight gain may affect outcomes over time.
*Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic or medical procedure.
