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Refined jawline and smooth neck contour after a neck lift
Face · Platysmaplasty

Neck Lift in Carmel & Indianapolis

Eliminate the turkey wattle, loose neck skin, and platysma banding for a sharper, more defined jawline with Indiana's leading board-certified practice.

Schedule a Consultation Call (317) 848-5512
★ 4.8 · 361 reviews Board-Certified — Dr. John Aker 30+ years experience Often combined with facelift
Overview

What Is a Neck Lift?

A neck lift (platysmaplasty and cervicoplasty) is a surgical procedure that addresses the visible signs of neck aging: loose skin, prominent vertical muscle bands (platysma bands), and excess fat beneath the chin. The result is a sharper, more defined jawline and a smooth neck contour that more accurately reflects a patient's vitality.

The procedure removes excess neck skin, tightens the underlying platysma muscles by bringing them together at the midline (platysmaplasty), and eliminates the characteristic "turkey wattle" and "tech neck" appearance caused by skin laxity and muscle banding. Submental liposuction may also be performed to address excess fat under the chin.

Neck lift is one of the most impactful single procedures available for facial rejuvenation — and is frequently combined with facelift for comprehensive lower face and neck treatment.

The MPSG Difference

Dr. Aker's Neck Lift Technique

Dr. Aker performs neck lift through incisions placed in naturally concealed locations: within the hairline behind each ear and/or in a small crease beneath the chin. Through these incisions, the platysma muscle bands are brought together and sutured at the midline (platysmaplasty), effectively tightening the muscular foundation of the neck. Excess skin is then removed and the remaining skin is re-draped smoothly.

When submental fat is also present, liposuction is performed through a small incision under the chin before the platysmaplasty. The combination of fat removal, muscle tightening, and skin excision provides the most comprehensive and lasting neck rejuvenation. A compression garment is placed at the conclusion of surgery to support healing and minimize swelling, and is worn continuously for the first 1–2 weeks.

Candidacy

Who Is a Candidate for a Neck Lift?

Younger patients with primarily excess fat and good skin elasticity may achieve satisfactory improvement with liposuction alone. Dr. Aker will assess your anatomy and recommend the most appropriate approach during consultation. Key factors:

  • Loose, sagging skin along the neck and under the chin
  • Prominent vertical platysma muscle bands (visible cords in the neck)
  • Excess fat under the chin ("double chin") combined with skin laxity
  • Skin laxity following significant weight loss
  • General neck aging that has not responded to non-surgical treatments
  • Good general health, non-smoker, and a stable weight
A Differentiator No Competitor Offers

You Don't Recover Alone

After surgery, you're driven to our dedicated recovery suite at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Carmel, where one of our caregivers — Evelyn, Lori, or Charmaine — meets you in the lobby and provides monitored overnight care, with a direct line to Dr. Aker, Dr. Beckman, and PA Amanda. You're never sent home to an empty house.

Learn About the Recovery Suite
Recovery

Neck Lift Recovery Timeline

Recovery is gradual — steady progress is the hallmark. What to expect:

  • Days 1–3: swelling, bruising, and tightness in the neck; head elevation and rest recommended
  • Week 1: compression garment worn continuously; sutures removed toward end of first week
  • Weeks 1–2: most patients return to work and light social activities; compression garment continues
  • Weeks 2–3: compression garment wear reduced; bruising fully resolved for most patients
  • 4–6 weeks: residual swelling resolves; strenuous activity may resume
  • 3 months: final results fully visible
Investment

Neck Lift Cost in Indiana

$6,000 – $10,000

Standalone neck lift surgery typically ranges from $6,000 to $10,000. When combined with facelift, the combined procedure cost reflects both components. A consultation is required for a personalized quote — financing options available.

Explore

Related Procedures

Facelift

Facelift

Lifts and repositions deeper facial tissues for natural, lasting rejuvenation.

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 Kybella

Kybella

Dissolves submental fat to eliminate a double chin without surgery.

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 Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

Removes excess upper/lower eyelid skin and under-eye bags for a refreshed look.

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Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "turkey wattle" and can a neck lift fix it?
A turkey wattle is the loose, hanging skin and prominent vertical muscle bands (platysma bands) that develop in the neck with age. Yes — neck lift directly addresses both by removing the excess skin and tightening the platysma muscle bands through a technique called platysmaplasty. The result is a sharper, more defined jawline and a smooth neck contour.
Is a neck lift the same as a facelift?
No — a neck lift focuses specifically on the area below the jawline, addressing the neck skin, fat, and platysma muscle. A facelift addresses the mid and lower face. The two procedures are frequently combined because they complement each other — a facelift without a neck lift can leave an unbalanced result, and vice versa. Dr. Aker will evaluate whether one or both procedures best address your concerns.
Can liposuction alone improve my neck?
For younger patients with good skin elasticity and primarily excess fat under the chin, liposuction alone may provide satisfactory improvement. However, for patients with loose neck skin, platysma banding, or significant aging changes, liposuction alone is insufficient — a formal neck lift is needed to tighten the skin and muscle. Dr. Aker will assess your neck anatomy during consultation and recommend the right approach.
How long does a neck lift last?
Neck lift results typically last 10 or more years with stable weight. The platysma muscle tightening (platysmaplasty) provides long-lasting correction of the muscle banding, which does not return in the same way. Skin laxity gradually returns with aging, but patients remain significantly improved compared to where they would have been without surgery.
What is recovery from a neck lift?
Most patients take 1–2 weeks off work. A compression garment is worn for 2–3 weeks to support healing and minimize swelling. Bruising and swelling are most noticeable in the first week and resolve over 4–6 weeks. Strenuous activity is restricted for approximately 4 weeks. Final results are visible at approximately 3 months as residual swelling fully resolves.

Take the First Step Toward a Defined Jawline

Schedule your consultation with Dr. John Aker or Dr. Di Beckman in Carmel, Indiana. 4.8★ rated · Board-certified · 30+ years experience.

Schedule a Consultation Call (317) 848-5512
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