Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty) in Gig Harbor, WA
Restore a smoother, more defined neck contour with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Melissa Larsen, serving Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound area.
Neck Lift
A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging skin, excess fat, and muscle banding in the neck to restore a smoother, more youthful neck and jawline contour. The neck is one of the earliest areas to show visible signs of aging, and changes here can significantly affect the overall appearance of the face. A neck lift can be performed on its own for patients whose primary concern is the neck, or combined with a facelift for a more complete and harmonious result.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A neck lift may be appropriate for patients who:
Have loose or sagging skin along the neck or under the chin
Have visible vertical banding or cords in the neck
Have excess fat beneath the chin or along the jawline
Notice that the neck appears inconsistent with the rest of their facial appearance
Are in good overall health with realistic expectations
Are non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking well in advance of surgery
During consultation, Dr. Larsen evaluates your neck anatomy, skin laxity, and aesthetic goals to determine whether a neck lift alone or in combination with a facelift is the most appropriate approach for your individual case.
Procedure Overview
Neck lift surgery is performed at an accredited outpatient surgical facility.
In general:
Surgery typically takes 1–3 hours depending on the extent of correction and whether a facelift is combined
Performed under general anesthesia
Excess skin is removed and the underlying platysma muscle is tightened and repositioned for a smoother, more defined neck contour
Liposuction may be incorporated to address excess fat beneath the chin or along the jawline
Incisions are typically placed behind the ears and in a small natural crease beneath the chin, positioned to remain discreet
Patients return home the same day. The most appropriate technique is determined based on your anatomy and goals during consultation.
Recovery
Most patients find neck lift recovery very manageable. Most patients follow a general pattern:
Week 1 Swelling, bruising, and tightness in the neck are normal. A supportive dressing or garment is worn. Rest is important and light activity around the home is comfortable for most patients.
Weeks 1–2 Bruising and swelling begin to improve noticeably. Most patients feel comfortable being seen in public by the end of week two. Avoid strenuous activity, bending, and lifting.
Weeks 3–4 Swelling continues to resolve and neck contour becomes more defined. Light daily activities resume comfortably.
Week 6+ Most normal activities can fully resume. Residual swelling continues to settle and final results become progressively more apparent.
Dr. Larsen provides detailed postoperative instructions and follow-up visits throughout recovery to monitor healing.
Results
A facelift produces a natural, refreshed appearance — restoring definition to the jawline, reducing jowling, and improving overall facial harmony.
Bruising and swelling resolve over the first few weeks
Final results become fully apparent over 3–6 months as residual swelling fully subsides
Results are long-lasting — most patients enjoy their outcome for many years
A well-performed facelift looks natural, not pulled or overdone
Aging continues after surgery, but patients consistently appear younger than they would have without the procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and a good skincare routine supports long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I combine a neck lift with a facelift? Many patients benefit from combining the two procedures, as the face and neck age together. A neck lift alone is well suited to patients whose primary concern is the neck, while those with broader facial aging concerns may achieve a more harmonious result by combining both. Dr. Larsen will advise on the right approach during consultation.
Can liposuction alone address my neck concerns? Liposuction is effective at removing excess fat beneath the chin but does not address loose skin or muscle banding. Patients with significant skin laxity or visible neck cords typically require a neck lift to achieve a smooth, defined result.
Will there be visible scars? Incisions are placed behind the ears and in the natural crease beneath the chin, where they are well concealed. Scars fade considerably over time and are not typically noticeable in everyday situations.
How long do neck lift results last? Results vary by individual but are long-lasting — most patients enjoy their outcome for many years. Aging continues after surgery, but patients consistently appear younger than they would without the procedure.
What does a neck lift cost? Pricing depends on the extent of correction and whether a facelift is combined. Financing options are available
Meet Dr. Melissa Larsen, MD
Dr. Melissa Larsen is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon serving patients in Gig Harbor and the greater Tacoma area. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and completed her six-year Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Integrated Residency at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Larsen is committed to personalized care that achieves natural, balanced results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larsen to discuss your goals, review your options, and find out if a neck lift is right for you.