Neck lift surgery, also known as a neck lift, is typically performed when the skin of the neck becomes saggy due to the aging process. However, this procedure is not always performed solely for this reason, as it is also used for aesthetic purposes.
In the following, we will learn more about the beauty standards for the neck, as well as the reasons for performing a neck lift, which complements a face lift surgery, and the procedure itself.
1. A defined jawline (angle of the jaw-chin)
2. The angle between the neck and chin
3. Chin proportions
4. Youthful chin
5. Youthful neck tissues
The line that runs from under the chin area to above the hyoid bone should be straight (or slightly convex).
It is one of the most important criteria for a beautiful neck and also has a significant impact on facial beauty. A prominent and defined lower jawline is a characteristic of beautiful necks. This line helps to clearly define the boundary between the head and neck.
The jawline can be reconstructed in individuals with insufficient lower jaw growth, those with a blurred jawline due to fat accumulation above the neck, and the elderly with sagging tissues that obscure parts of this line.This aesthetic feature can be restored through surgical or non-surgical methods.Different methods of jawline beautification are discussed in other sections of this website.
The line extending from under the chin to the top of the hyoid bone should be straight (or slightly convex).
As seen in the image, the straightness of the line extending from the chin to the hyoid bone plays a significant role in neck beauty.
Normally, the angle between the neck and chin is between 105_ 120 degrees. Aging and the breakdown of chin tissue can increase this angle, while fat accumulation above the neck can decrease it. In any case, an increase or decrease in this angle affects the beauty of the neck.
As you can see in the images below, the greater the ratio of the horizontal portion (chin to neck) to the vertical portion (neck), the more beautiful the neck will appear. Therefore, this ratio does not necessarily decrease only with age. In some individuals, due to insufficient growth of the lower part of the face, this ratio is low, and it can be corrected by placing a chin implant. (You can refer to the explanations of chin implants on this site).
The ratio of the horizontal to the vertical segment of the neck should be twice or greater
A beautiful and youthful chin is one that has a suitable projection without any static or dynamic sagging. The chin is located above the front part of the neck and its beauty significantly impacts the beauty of the neck. A small chin can make the upper part of the neck appear larger, creating a false appearance of a double chin. In individuals with a small chin along with fat accumulation or loose tissues in the front of the neck, the unattractiveness (double chin) will appear more severe than it actually is.
In a beautiful neck, the skin is smooth and wrinkle-free, the edge of the platysma muscle (a superficial neck muscle) is not visible, and there is no enlargement or sagging of the salivary glands or other tissues in the floor of the mouth.
A youthful neck not only exhibits beauty and firmness in a static position but also demonstrates these qualities in dynamic movement. It can be said that the first and most significant change in the neck with age is the dynamic sagging of neck tissues, which manifests as a collection of tissue under the chin and jaw when bending the head downward.
Typically, the sagging of the skin and tissues of the neck becomes noticeable starting in the fifth decade of life (after 40 years of age). Initially, this sagging is dynamic, meaning it is seen when the head is bent downward (such as when reading or looking at a phone screen) and is reduced or completely disappears when the head is returned to an upright position.
Although the prevalence of aging signs is the same in both men and women, it is often women who seek treatment for neck rejuvenation.
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1. In younger individuals (under 40), treatments for neck rejuvenation often focus on reducing a double chin and enhancing the lower jawline to create a more defined neck and facial contour. For these age groups, we recommend non-surgical procedures or less invasive surgical options.
2. For older individuals (over 45), while non-surgical methods are still initially recommended, many people opt for more extensive procedures like a neck lift due to the limited and temporary results of non-surgical treatments.
3. Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss are also initially recommended non-surgical options, but if the results are not satisfactory, a neck lift may be considered.
Normally, the cervicomental angle (the angle between the chin and neck) is between 105 and 120 degrees. A double chin is a condition where the tissues below the chin appear saggy or bulky, causing the angle between the chin and neck to be much wider than normal in a side profile view. In individuals with a double chin, the cervicomental angle is greater than 120 degrees and can even reach nearly 150 degrees or more in severe cases.
Although double chins can occur in younger individuals, it is one of the most noticeable signs of aging in the neck area. In older, thin individuals, a double chin is often composed of excess skin and a sagging platysma muscle (a superficial neck muscle).
In obese individuals, a double chin is more likely to consist of fat accumulation beneath the skin and deeper layers of the neck. In a frontal view, a double chin appears as a tissue mass similar to the chin (but below the primary chin), hence the term “double chin”.
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1. Fat accumulation under the chin: This is a common cause, especially in individuals who are overweight.
2. Small chin or lower jaw: A small chin or underdeveloped jaw can create the illusion of a double chin, even in individuals with a normal body weight.
In addition to the above, older individuals may also experience:
1. Loosening of the skin and tissues under the chin: The platysma muscle, a superficial neck muscle, can become loose and saggy.
2. Sagging of the tissues in the floor of the mouth and weakening of the neck muscles.
It’s important to note that multiple factors can contribute to the development of a double chin in any given individual.
With aging, the neck, like other parts of the body, undergoes changes
1. Fat accumulation under the chin: As mentioned earlier, this is a common cause.
2. Loosening of the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) in the neck: This is a deeper layer of tissue that helps support the skin.
3. Small chin or underdeveloped lower jaw: This can create the appearance of a double chin, even in the absence of excess fat.
4. Loosening and sagging of the skin, tissues below the chin, and the submandibular gland.
Note: All of these changes can contribute to the development of an age-related double chin.
Many people consider a double chin to be a sign of weight gain. In fact, we see that one of the primary areas where fat accumulates in overweight individuals is under the chin. Therefore, it is very common to see double chins in obese people.
The fat under the chin is located in both superficial and deep layers relative to the platysma (a superficial neck muscle). Only the more superficial fat above the platysma can be removed through liposuction. Deeper fat, located below the platysma, has a firm, fibrous consistency and cannot be suctioned. If attempted, it can lead to severe bleeding and, due to the presence of important structures beneath the platysma, there is a risk of damage to nerves or salivary glands.
Sometimes, a double chin is actually an illusion. In individuals with small chins or lower jaws, the distance between the most prominent part of the chin and the neck is reduced, creating the illusion of a double chin. This pseudo-double chin can sometimes coexist with a true double chin, making the appearance of the double chin more pronounced. If a small chin is the sole cause of the double chin, simply augmenting the chin or lower jaw can eliminate the appearance of a double chin. In this case, the tissues under the chin do not need to be addressed.
With age, the tissues under the chin, like other soft tissues of the face, become loose and sag. Therefore, in older individuals (over 40 years old), double chins are very common, and the severity and size of the double chin increases with age.
In all elderly individuals (over 45 years old) who exhibit sagging and laxity of the neck tissues, neck lift surgery provides the most lasting results. Neck lift surgery is the only procedure that can simultaneously correct all the factors contributing to an unattractive neck. In this procedure, by tightening the muscles of the floor of the mouth, the dynamic sagging of the upper neck is corrected, and at the same time, by implanting a chin implant, the boundaries between the neck and face can be well-defined.
Creating a balance between the horizontal and vertical sections of the neck: is possible through neck lift surgery. Neck lift surgery is almost the only procedure that can correct the vertical bands of the neck.
Vertical Neck Bands, Enlargement, and Sagging of the Submandibular Gland:In some individuals, enlargement or sagging of the submandibular gland manifests as a bulge beneath the jawline (between the angle of the jaw and the chin). If the enlargement of the salivary gland causes significant aesthetic problems in the neck, a portion of the gland can be removed during neck lift surgery. By preserving the essential parts, the function of the salivary gland can be maintained while simultaneously enhancing the appearance of the neck.
Chin liposuction is suitable for young individuals (under 40) who have firm skin and tissues under the chin, a well-developed chin and lower jaw, and where the only cause of the double chin is an excess accumulation of fat in the superficial layer of the submental region.
This group is the only one that can expect satisfactory results from chin liposuction. Only 10% of individuals seeking treatment for a double chin fall into this category, while the remaining 90% have one or more additional factors contributing to their double chin. Therefore, contrary to the expectations of many patients, it is likely that 90% will still have some remaining double chin after liposuction.
While neck contouring surgery is considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it can have potential complications. These complications include bruising, pain, itching, numbness in the skin, swelling, and the presence of surgical scars. However, many of these complications can be prevented or treated with appropriate care.
Given the nature of the surgery and the recovery process, it is essential to be aware of the specific post-operative care instructions. This will help you return to your normal activities as quickly as possible and minimize the risk of complications. To ensure comprehensive support, we will provide you with a detailed post-operative care guide and be available for any questions or concerns you may have via phone.
In neck and chin lift surgery, only the imperfections below the jawline are corrected.
If the salivary gland has grown excessively, the patient will be informed of this. If the patient wishes, a portion of the gland can be removed, as long as it does not compromise the individual’s health.
This is a direct question asking for a recommendation for individuals who only have a double chin and no other signs of neck aging.
It’s best for them to be examined. If their chin is small, a chin implant can be used.
A person with loose skin is not a good candidate for chin liposuction because it can worsen skin sagging (usually, individuals over 40 years old are not suitable for chin liposuction). In young individuals, liposuction is only suitable for those who have fully developed lower jawbones. However, if a person has a small chin and jaw, this is a pseudo-double chin and will not be eliminated by liposuction.
The best way to determine if a person is a suitable candidate for chin liposuction is through an ultrasound of the neck to measure the thickness of the fat in that area. If the thickness of this fat is more than 5 millimeters, a satisfactory result will be achieved; otherwise, a satisfactory result will not be obtained.
In individuals with a tight platysma muscle, a well-developed chin, and no sagging of the submental tissue (floor of the mouth), and a non-significant double chin, an incision under the chin can be avoided.
Yes, it is possible to get lip fillers or fat injections after lip surgery.
Individuals with a small chin or jaw.Individuals with a large submental fat pad.Individuals with significant submandibular gland enlargement.
No. A neck lift does not correct horizontal lines on the neck.
There is no need for a repeat neck lift as long as the results of the previous lift are still visible. If you notice the effects of aging returning, you can consult your surgeon for another lift.
Numbness in the neck persists as long as there is swelling and the tissues are healing. It typically takes several weeks to a few months for the swelling to subside and the numbness to resolve.
In general, tissue healing is slower in smokers compared to non-smokers, and there is a risk of tissue damage. Therefore, it’s recommended to quit smoking before undergoing surgery. It’s important to know that the risk of scarring is higher in smokers.
