Neck lift surgery addresses structural changes beneath the skin to restore definition along the jawline and neck. By tightening the platysma muscle, removing excess skin, and refining contour, the procedure corrects laxity that non-surgical treatments cannot resolve. The surgery, when necessary, will also address offending anatomy under the platysma muscle. The surgery, when necessary, will also address offending anatomy under the platysma muscle. Recovery time is typically measured in weeks, with progressive improvement as swelling subsides. Results are long-lasting and natural in appearance, particularly when skin quality allows for smooth redraping. The procedure is commonly performed under twilight anesthesia in an accredited surgical setting. As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with published research on platysmaplasty, Dr. Fedok brings a level of anatomical precision that distinguishes his results from general plastic surgery.
Outpatient procedure
Oral sedation or twilight anesthesia
Approximately 2 to 3 hours
1 to 2 weeks for social downtime; continued improvement over several weeks
See how Dr. Fedok’s neck lift results demonstrate improved jawline definition and reduced banding.
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A neck lift, frequently including a platysmaplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline. It involves removing excess skin and fat, tightening underlying muscles, and repositioning the skin for a smoother, firmer contour. This procedure targets issues such as turkey neck, jowls, and excess fat, providing a more youthful and defined neck profile. Dr. Fedok, one of the leading neck lift surgeons, offers the surgical treatment for patients in Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fairhope, and the greater Gulf Coast area, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
Dr. Fedok approaches neck lift surgery with a focus on precise anatomical correction and controlled tissue handling. The procedure is individually planned according to each patient’s degree of muscle separation, skin quality, and fat distribution.
By directly addressing platysmal banding, deep structures, and restoring support beneath the skin, the technique allows for more defined contouring of the neck and jawline. Incisions are typically positioned behind the ears and beneath the chin, allowing access to deeper structures while remaining well-concealed. With careful planning and closure, resulting scars are fine and generally blend into natural skin creases over time.
Ideal candidates for a neck lift should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and be non-smokers. During your consultation, Dr. Fedok will evaluate your skin elasticity and overall condition to determine the best approach. In many cases, patients opt for a deep plane facelift to achieve optimal neck rejuvenation. Dr. Fedok plans each procedure individually, accounting for muscle separation, skin quality, and the patient’s long-term goals rather than applying a standardized technique.
Neck lift surgery addresses structural concerns, including skin laxity, platysmal banding, submental fullness, and loss of jawline definition. These changes result from muscle separation, fat accumulation, and skin thinning. The procedure restores contour by correcting underlying anatomy rather than masking surface irregularities.
Neck lift surgery offers a multitude of benefits, enhancing both appearance and confidence.
Dr. Fedok’s neck lift procedure becomes appropriate when structural changes are visible in repose and cannot be corrected with non-surgical treatments. These include platysmal banding, persistent loose skin, sagging of glands, and loss of cervical angle definition.
Radiofrequency treatments and lasers may improve skin quality, tone, and mild laxity, but they do not reposition muscle or correct deeper structural changes. Once the platysma has separated or significant skin excess is present, surgical correction is required to restore contour.
Dr. Fedok utilizes a comprehensive approach for neck lift procedures, often incorporating elements of a lower facelift to achieve optimal results. The procedure involves making incisions around the ears and sometimes under the chin to access the underlying neck muscles. These muscles are tightened, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is re-draped for a smoother, more defined neck contour. Sutures are typically removed within two weeks, but the healing process continues for several months as tissues settle and swelling decreases.
The patient’s desired goals and results will guide Dr. Fedok’s surgical maneuver as seen in the below examples.
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From: Fedok and Sedgh. (2020) Another look at Platysmaplasty in Facelifting. Facial Plast Surg. 2020 Aug;36(4):395-403. doi: 10.1055/s-0040-1714062. Epub 2020 Aug 31.
Recovery is generally smooth, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort. Since this is a more focused procedure, recovery is usually quicker. A turban-style bandage is worn around the neck until the morning after the procedure. Swelling and discoloration typically resolve within one to two weeks. Patients are encouraged to shower and resume low-level activities within 24 hours post-surgery. Full recovery and return to normal activities usually occur within a few weeks.
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To optimize the outcomes, Dr. Fedok offers non-invasive treatments. Starting around four to five weeks post-surgery, patients benefit from two complimentary Evoke sessions designed to tighten skin and diminish swelling in the neck area. VBeam Pulsed Dye Laser treatments may be performed several weeks after your neck lift to enhance the appearance of surgical incisions by targeting red pigment in the skin. HydraLift Fusion may also be recommended after neck lift recovery to support skin quality, improve texture, and maintain firmness through ongoing collagen stimulation and hydration. These advanced treatments work together to ensure the best possible results.
While a neck lift procedure is generally safe, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve injury. Dr. Fedok will thoroughly discuss all potential risks and benefits during your consultation, ensuring you are well-informed and comfortable with your decision.
All procedures are performed in our Quad A–Accredited surgical facility, which has been independently evaluated for anesthesia safety, sterile processing, emergency readiness, and strict surgical standards. Patients can feel confident knowing their care meets national hospital-level protocols in a private, specialized environment.
Dr. Fedok is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in facial aging and neck rejuvenation. He integrates surgical and non-surgical expertise to deliver precise, natural results. The goal is a result that looks like a better version of the patient — not an operated one — with definition that holds over time. Dr. Fedok is a distinguished presenter at leading aesthetic conferences and seminars and has published on advanced surgical techniques. Discover the ideal surgical technique for youthful rejuvenation with Dr. Fedok, who serves patients throughout Foley, Orange Beach, Fairhope, and the greater Gulf Shores area.
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By Dr. Fedok, a well-respected and his expertise is reflected in his before-and-after gallery, RealSelf reviews, and Google Reviews reflect his trusted expertise.
Results can last up to a decade or more, but this varies based on individual aging processes and skin care.
Scars are minimal and strategically placed to blend with the natural contours of the neck.
Yes, it is often combined with facelifts, brow lifts, chin augmentation, or non-invasive treatments for optimal results.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Most patients experience limited discomfort and can resume normal non-strenuous activity in a few days, and are ready to be out in public in 1-2 weeks under typical circumstances
Initial results are visible within 2-3 weeks, with final results becoming more apparent over the next few months as swelling subsides.
In most cases, Dr. Fedok performs neck lift surgery in conjunction with a facelift to achieve balanced, natural-looking rejuvenation. While isolated neck concerns such as banding or skin redundancy can sometimes be addressed independently, a combined approach is typically recommended when facial aging is also present. Dr. Fedok will evaluate your anatomy during your consultation to determine the most appropriate plan.
Our Foley office is conveniently located for patients across the Gulf Coast and beyond — we serve communities throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
