Neck Lift Surgery in Manhattan Beach: Restore Your Defined Jawline

Neck Lift Surgery (Cervicoplasty and Platysmaplasty)

A neck lift is a surgical procedure that restores a smoother, more defined neck and jawline by addressing loose skin, excess fat, and muscle banding (the vertical "cords" in the neck). Depending on your needs, a neck lift may include cervicoplasty (skin removal/tightening), platysmaplasty (tightening the platysma muscle), and submental liposuction (fat reduction under the chin). Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with carefully placed, discreet incisions.

What a neck lift can address

• Sagging or crepey skin beneath the chin and along the neck

• Fullness under the chin ("double chin") and along the jawline

• Platysmal banding (prominent vertical neck bands)

• Jowls that blur jawline definition

What a neck lift can't do alone

• Improve skin quality issues like sun damage or pigmentation (often better treated with resurfacing/skin care)

• Replace significant volume loss in the midface (may consider combined facelift or injectable options)

Who is a good candidate?

• You notice loose skin, fullness under the chin, or visible neck bands

• Your weight is stable and you're in good general health

• You don't smoke (or are willing to stop before and after surgery)

• You seek natural-looking refinement rather than an over-tightened appearance

• You have realistic expectations about results and recovery

How Dr. Egan rejuvenates the neck

Dr. Kristin Egan customizes each procedure to your anatomy. Incisions are typically hidden around natural creases near the ears and, when needed, a small incision is placed under the chin. The platysma muscle can be tightened to smooth banding, excess skin is redraped and trimmed, and submental liposuction sculpts the chin–neck angle. Most patients go home the same day and wear a supportive garment for a short time to help control swelling.

Neck liposuction alone vs. a full neck lift

For patients with good skin elasticity—often younger individuals—submental liposuction through a tiny incision can sharpen the under-chin contour without removing skin. When significant skin laxity or pronounced banding is present (including a so‑called "turkey neck"), a surgical neck lift is usually recommended to tighten muscle and remove extra skin for a smoother, longer-lasting result.

Minimally invasive options

For select patients seeking minimal downtime, in-office energy-based neck tightening (sometimes called a "laser facelift") can be performed under local anesthesia and may be combined with submental liposuction. These treatments can modestly tighten mild to moderate laxity but cannot remove substantial excess skin. Dr. Egan will help determine whether a minimally invasive approach or surgery best meets your goals.

Recovery timeline (general guidance)

1. 1

   Days 1–3: Swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness are common; keep head elevated and wear the support garment as directed.

2. 2

   Week 1: Most sutures removed; many patients resume light daily activities.

3. 3

   Weeks 2–3: Bruising typically fades; many people feel comfortable returning to work and social events.

4. 4

   Weeks 4–6: Gradual return to full exercise; residual swelling continues to refine for several months.

Scarring and results

Incisions are placed to blend with natural creases around the ears and, when used, a small incision under the chin. Scars typically soften and fade over time. Results are long-lasting, but the neck will continue to age naturally. Good skin care and sun protection help maintain your outcome.

Risks and safety

• Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness or tightness

• Bleeding or hematoma (blood collection) and infection (uncommon)

• Scarring or contour irregularities

• Temporary or, rarely, longer-lasting nerve changes affecting sensation or movement

• Delayed wound healing, especially in smokers

Combining procedures for balanced results

A neck lift is often paired with a lower facelift for jowl correction, chin augmentation for profile balance, or skin resurfacing to improve tone and texture. During your consultation, Dr. Egan will discuss options to create a cohesive, natural-looking result.

Why choose Dr. Kristin Egan

Dr. Kristin Egan is dual board-certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She has practiced in Manhattan Beach since 2011, caring for patients from the Beach Cities, Torrance, and beyond.

Schedule a consultation

Ready to explore neck lift surgery or minimally invasive neck rejuvenation? Contact Dr. Egan's office for appointments. Our team will guide you to the approach that fits your anatomy, goals, and downtime.