Lower Rhytidectomy
Could your profile use a lift? A neck lift refines the jawline, restores definition, and rejuvenates your overall facial balance for a firmer, more youthful contour.
As we age, gravity, genetics, and environmental exposure take a toll on the delicate skin around the neck and jawline. You may notice sagging skin, vertical banding, fullness under the chin, or the dreaded “turkey neck” effect — all of which can make you appear older than you feel.
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, addresses loose skin, excess fat, and weakened muscles in the lower face and neck. It refines your jawline, restores definition, and rejuvenates your overall facial balance — giving you a firmer, more sculpted, youthful neck contour.
At the Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery Center in Aliso Viejo, Dr. Ernest B. Robinson — a Board-Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon — combines advanced techniques with artistic precision. Patients from Aliso Viejo, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo and across Orange County trust him for personalized care and outstanding outcomes.
Loose, sagging skin around the neck
Vertical muscle banding (platysmal bands)
Fullness or excess fat beneath the chin
The “turkey neck” effect of lax skin and muscle
Weakened, separated platysma muscles
An undefined or aging jawline
Every neck lift begins with a detailed consultation designed to align your aesthetic goals with realistic expectations. Dr. Robinson carefully evaluates the structure of your neck, jawline, and facial profile to determine the best surgical approach for your unique anatomy.
You’ll have the opportunity to share what bothers you most — loose skin, excess fat under the chin, or visible muscle bands — and Dr. Robinson will explain your options clearly, discuss potential results, and answer questions about recovery or complementary procedures.
For a balanced, harmonious rejuvenation, many patients combine a neck lift with a facelift, chin implant, or eyelid surgery. Dr. Robinson may also recommend non-surgical treatments such as laser skin tightening or injectable fillers to enhance results and improve skin texture.
Dr. Robinson performs neck lift surgery at Pacific Hills Surgery Center using local or general anesthesia, depending on your needs and comfort. The entire procedure typically takes two to three hours, and patients return home the same day.
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Performed at Pacific Hills Surgery Center under local or general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes two to three hours, with same-day discharge.
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Small, discreet incisions are made behind the ears and sometimes beneath the chin to access the underlying tissue and muscle.
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Dr. Robinson tightens the underlying platysma muscles, removes or repositions fat deposits, and trims excess skin. In some cases, liposuction refines the jawline and removes stubborn fat.
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Once the tissues are sculpted and repositioned, the skin is gently redraped and sutured for a smooth, firm, natural-looking result.
Following your neck lift, expect mild swelling, bruising, and tightness around the neck and jawline — all temporary and part of normal healing. Dr. Robinson will provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and comfort. Pain is usually minimal and easily managed with prescribed medication.
Keep Head ElevatedRest with your head elevated to minimize swelling and aid healing.
Compression GarmentWear a soft compression garment to reduce swelling and support contours.
Avoid Neck TwistingDon’t twist or bend the neck while the area heals.
Pain ManagementDiscomfort is usually minimal and managed with prescribed medication.
First Few Days
Mild swelling, bruising and tightness are normal. Keep your head elevated and wear the compression garment as directed.
Day 10–14
Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and light activities.
Several Weeks
Full recovery progresses. As swelling subsides, your refined neckline and jawline become more visible.
Several Months
Results continue to improve as residual swelling fully resolves, revealing a smoother, sculpted profile.
After your neck lift, you’ll notice a dramatic improvement in the definition of your chin and jawline. Loose, sagging skin is replaced with a firmer, more youthful contour that can make you look years younger. The incisions are discreetly hidden behind the ears and under the chin, and they fade beautifully over time — with results that continue to improve for several months as residual swelling resolves.
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Contact Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery in Aliso Viejo to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Robinson.
