What Happens During a Neck Lift? Step-by-Step Guide

Close up of woman's smooth, youthful neck after neck lift in Washington, DCDid you know your neck could be revealing your true age or even making you look older than you are? A neck lift (lower rhytidectomy) is a cosmetic surgery to tighten loose skin, remove excess fat, and redefine the jawline and neck for a more youthful appearance. If you’re considering a neck lift, here’s step-by-step what happens during the procedure.

At West End Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C., our board-certified surgeons, including Dr. Paul G. Ruff IV and Dr. Lexie Wang, specialize in advanced neck lift procedures designed to tighten and rejuvenate the neck for a youthful, contoured appearance. Our AAAASF-accredited surgical suite ensures the highest safety, precision, and personalized care standards, giving patients a seamless and private surgical experience from consultation to recovery.

Step 1: Consultation and Pre-Op Preparation

Before surgery, you’ll meet with your plastic surgeon for a consultation. During this appointment:

  • Your surgeon will evaluate your neck’s skin elasticity, muscle tone, and fat distribution.
  • You’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and whether a full neck lift or a mini neck lift is best for you.
  • Pre-op instructions will include avoiding blood-thinning medications, alcohol, and smoking before surgery.

Step 2: Anesthesia Administration

On the day of your procedure, you are given local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. Your surgeon will recommend one based on your specific needs.

Step 3: Making the Incisions

Incision placement depends on the extent of your procedure:

  • A traditional neck lift involves incisions behind the ears and under the chin.
  • A limited-incision neck lift may involve smaller incisions around the ears.

Step 4: Fat Removal & Muscle Tightening

Excess fat is removed or repositioned using liposuction or direct excision. Then, the muscle is tightened to reduce banding and improve neck contour.

Step 5: Skin Redraping & Trimming

Once the underlying structures are reshaped, the skin is carefully re-draped over the neck. Any extra skin is trimmed to create a smoother, firmer look.

Step 6: Closing the Incisions

The surgeon closes the incisions with sutures or skin adhesive, which will be removed or dissolve on their own within a few weeks.

Step 7: Recovery & Healing

After the procedure:

  • Expect some swelling and bruising for the first week.
  • Most patients return to light activities within 10-14 days.
  • Full results become visible within a few months as swelling subsides.

Look Young and Fresh with a Neck Lift in Washington, DC

A neck lift can dramatically rejuvenate your profile, helping you achieve a firmer, youthful neck and jawline. Call us today at 202-785-4187 to schedule a consultation.

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