A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to tighten sagging skin, reduce excess fat, and smooth out wrinkles in the neck area. At Advanced Plastic Surgery Center in Arlington, VA, our board-certified surgeons specialize in creating natural, long-lasting results that enhance your profile and restore a youthful appearance.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift, also known as lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery that:
- Reduces sagging skin and excess fat under the chin
- Tightens loose neck muscles to improve definition
- Smooths out wrinkles and fine lines
- Enhances jawline contours for a rejuvenated appearance
This procedure is ideal for individuals looking to restore a more youthful, refreshed look without altering their natural features.

Am I a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
You may be a good candidate for a neck lift if you:
- Have loose, sagging skin around the neck and jawline
- Struggle with excess fat under the chin (double chin)
- Notice prominent neck bands or wrinkles
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit before surgery
A consultation with one of our plastic surgeons, Dr. Munasifi and Dr. Economides, will determine if a neck lift is the best option for your cosmetic goals.
Why Choose Advanced Plastic Surgery Center?
Advanced Plastic Surgery Center offers unparalleled expertise. Dr. Talal Munasifi and Dr. James Economides, our board-certified surgeons, use advanced surgical techniques to tighten loose skin, remove excess fat, and redefine the jawline and neck.
Their meticulous approach delivers natural-looking, youthful results with minimal downtime. If you want a smoother, firmer neckline, trust their expert hands for a refreshed and elegant appearance.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
A neck lift is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure includes:
- Small Incisions – Typically made behind the ears and under the chin for discreet scarring.
- Fat Removal and Muscle Tightening – Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat, and underlying muscles are tightened for a firmer appearance.
- Skin Repositioning – Excess skin is trimmed and redraped for a smooth, natural contour.
- Closing the Incisions – Fine sutures or skin adhesives are used to minimize visible scarring.
The entire procedure takes about 1-3 hours, depending on the extent of correction needed.


What Can I Expect from the Results of a Neck Lift?
After a neck lift, you can expect:
- A more defined jawline and smoother neck
- Reduced sagging skin and excess fat
- A youthful and refreshed appearance
- Long-lasting results that enhance your natural beauty
Results become more visible as swelling subsides, typically within 4-6 weeks, with full results noticeable in a few months.
What is the Recovery Time?
Recovery varies by patient, but most can expect:
- First week: There may be swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. The sutures are typically removed after 7 days.
- 1-2 weeks: Most bruising diminishes. Patients often return to work within 1 week.
- 4 weeks: Patients typically resume exercise and can begin to lift 10+ pounds.
Following post-operative care instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.