Chin Liposuction vs. Neck Lift: Choosing the Right Procedure for You

Published by Dr. Jay Lucas, MD, a board-certified surgeon with over 20 years of experience.

Have you ever found yourself scrutinizing a picture of yourself, only to have your attention immediately drawn to a double chin? 

Or maybe, with age, you’ve noticed that the skin on your neck or beneath your jaw has begun to sag more than you’d like?

Unfortunately, these are common concerns that can affect a vast number of men and women, particularly as we get older. That’s why, at The Lucas Center, we’re committed to empowering patients who are looking to enhance their lower face and neck region, so they feel more confident and comfortable in their skin.

To help you make informed decisions, let’s take a look at two popular plastic surgery procedures targeting the lower face. Given that they both address a similar area of the body, we’ll explore the distinct differences, including how factors such as age, underlying anatomy, and your personal expectations can significantly influence which procedure may be the best fit for you.

Chin Liposuction

Liposuction of the chin, also known as submental liposuction, can be a highly effective and versatile procedure for sculpting and refining the jawline and neck area. It’s a popular choice for younger individuals with no loose, hanging skin who are bothered by excess fat under the chin (often referred to as a “double chin”).

This procedure can significantly improve the profile and create a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance. The technology used in modern liposuction allows for precise fat removal, leading to smoother contours and a more defined angle between the chin and neck.

The Process

These strategically placed incisions are designed for subtlety and minimal scarring. Through these small openings, specialized cannulas are used to gently remove targeted pockets of fat below the chin and jawline.

The amount of fat removed is carefully determined during a personalized consultation to achieve a natural-looking result that complements your existing facial features. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia with sedation, making it a comfortable experience for many patients.

The recovery from chin liposuction is generally straightforward. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days to a week, with swelling and bruising gradually subsiding over the following weeks. Compression garments are typically worn to aid in healing and to help the skin retract smoothly.

Neck Lift

A neck lift, or platysmaplasty, is a more comprehensive surgical procedure designed to address the signs of aging in the neck and jawline. It is often performed in conjunction with a facelift, but it can also be a standalone procedure for those primarily concerned with the neck area. 

A neck lift is an excellent option for individuals experiencing sagging skin, prominent neck bands (platysmal bands), and loss of definition in the jawline. It can effectively rejuvenate the lower face and neck, restoring a more youthful and firm appearance.

The Process

After making precise incisions, which are also placed discreetly to minimize scarring (often along the hairline and behind the ears), Dr. Lucas addresses  the underlying structures contributing to neck aging. This may involve removing and/or repositioning excess skin around the neck and under the chin. 

He also tightens the underlying muscles to achieve optimal, natural-looking results and reduce platysmal banding.This comprehensive approach ensures that the results are not only about skin tightening but also about restoring the foundational support of the neck.

The recovery from a neck lift is typically longer than that of chin liposuction. Patients may experience more swelling and bruising, and a period of rest is usually recommended. Most patients can resume light activities within one to two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks to months. The results of a neck lift are often dramatic and long-lasting, providing a significant improvement in the overall appearance of the lower face and neck.

Which Procedure is a Good Fit for You?

Although these procedures address some of the same areas, they have different goals, timelines, and recovery needs. You’ll need to consider each of these things and discuss your goals and health with a board-certified plastic surgeon in order to make the best choice for you. 

A thorough consultation is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual anatomy, skin quality, and desired outcomes.

In the meantime, here’s a good place to start in the decision-making process:

Chin Liposuction May Be a Good Fit if…

• …your goal is mainly to reduce a mild amount of fat beneath the chin
• …your skin doesn’t require significant tightening (it is not loose or hanging)
• …you’re looking for a minimally-invasive option that can be performed in-office
• …you need to return to normal activity relatively quickly
• …you prefer a less extensive procedure in general
• …you are generally at a healthy, stable weight

Please note: No one over 40 years of age is a candidate for chin liposuction alone. Due to skin elasticity and the natural effects of aging, a neck lift is recommended for 40+ patients.

A Neck Lift May Be a Good Fit if…

• …your main goal is to address signs of aging and/or restore a youthful appearance
• …you are looking for a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the neck and jawline area
• …you have significant skin laxity (loose skin) and/or prominent platysmal banding
• …you have time to prioritize a longer recovery period to allow for optimal healing and results

In addition, your age, anatomy, and expectations will play a large role in determining which of these procedures will achieve the results you want. Both can be highly effective, but each achieves a different goal.

Sometimes, a combination of both procedures may be recommended to achieve the most comprehensive and satisfying results. For instance, liposuction can remove excess fat, while a neck lift can address loose skin and muscle laxity in the same treatment session.

It’s Time for Expert, Customized Guidance

If you still have questions, or if you’re ready to proceed with chin liposuction or a neck lift in East Tennessee, now is a great time to enlist the help of a trusted expert. Choosing the right plastic surgeon is paramount to achieving safe and beautiful results. Dr. Lucas brings a wealth of experience and a keen artistic eye to every procedure he performs, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care and achieves their desired aesthetic outcomes.

With over 20 years practicing in Knoxville and surrounding areas, Dr. Lucas is the go-to professional to help you achieve the results you want and the confidence you deserve. When you schedule a consultation with us, he’ll take the time to learn about you and your goals, then provide personalized recommendations based on your unique facial structure and desired results. He believes in a collaborative approach, working closely with each patient to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses their specific concerns and aesthetic aspirations.

In the meantime, you can explore examples of Dr. Lucas’s results here or listen to our patient stories to see why you want Dr. Lucas on your team.