A mini neck lift is a less invasive surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the neck by tightening muscles and tissues, removing excess fat, and enhancing the overall contour of the neck and jawline. This procedure is particularly appealing for those who seek a youthful appearance without undergoing a full traditional neck lift, as it involves shorter incisions and a quicker recovery time

Mini Neck Lift 

Interestingly, there is no real “definition” of a mini neck lift in plastic surgery.  I think it mainly relates to liposuction of the neck along with possible skin tightening, but the definition varies based on which article you read about online!

In a mini neck lift, incisions are typically made underneath your chin, just behind your chin crease. This horizontal incision is well-concealed and allows the surgeon to perform necessary adjustments such as liposuction and muscle tightening without extensive scarring.. The procedure may also involve incisions around the ear, depending on the surgeon’s technique and the patient’s specific needs.

I remove fat, usually through liposuction, and then I can optionally tighten your skin using non invasive technology or tightening loose skin and redraping it behind your ear only. I usually do not tighten the platysma muscle-  the muscle in your neck that causes neck muscle bands – because I need a longer incision and usually do this with a traditional neck lift. 

Traditional Neck Lift vs. Deep Neck Lift

A traditional neck lift involves removing excess skin and tightening underlying muscles to address signs of aging such as sagging skin, vertical neck bands, and a double chin. The incisions for a traditional neck lift usually start in the hairline, continue around the ear, and end in the posterior hair, allowing for significant reshaping and contouring of the neck area.

Also, a traditional neck lift typically addresses only the neck skin, the platysma muscle which is just under the skin, and repositions mainly these structures.

Under the platysma muscle, you may have additional large salivary glands and deeper central neck muscles called the “digastric muscles” that may be prominent in some patients.  These structures are “deeper” and under the platysma muscle. 

A deep neck lift goes beyond the traditional approach by targeting the underlying musculature and supporting tissues beneath the platysma muscle. The incisions are the same or similar to a traditional neck lift, but I have to go UNDER The platysma muscle to reach certain anatomic structures. 

This technique is more comprehensive, addressing not only the skin and fat but also the deeper structures to provide a more defined jawline and neck contour. Incisions for a deep neck lift may be placed behind the hairline and around the ear.

Most patients do not need a deep neck lift, but some do.  It depends on your anatomy, as well as how prominent your specific submandibular salivary glands and digastric muscles area.  Seeing your neck in consultation will help me figure out the best treatment plan for you. 

Combining Neck Lift with Facelift

Combining a neck lift with a facelift can be highly beneficial for individuals experiencing aging signs in both the face and neck. A facelift primarily targets the lower face, addressing issues like sagging cheeks and deep wrinkles, while a neck lift focuses on the neck and jawline. By combining these procedures, patients can achieve a more comprehensive rejuvenation, addressing multiple concerns simultaneously and ensuring a harmonious overall appearance.

Conclusion

A mini neck lift offers a less invasive option for individuals looking to enhance their neck’s appearance with minimal downtime and scarring. The advantage is a shorter incision, shorter recovery time, and shorter time in the operating room.  The downside is that this may not address all of the issues going on with your specific neck. 

Understanding the differences between a mini neck lift, a traditional neck lift, and a deep neck lift can help individuals make informed decisions about which procedure best suits their needs. 

Additionally, combining a neck lift with a facelift can provide more extensive results, making it an attractive option for those seeking significant facial rejuvenation.

If you’d like to watch my YouTube video on this topic, CLICK HERE.