Face and Neck Lift Surgery – What It Involves and Why People Choose Both

As we age, skin loses elasticity, and sagging around the face and neck can make us look older than we feel. If you’ve noticed deep wrinkles, jowls, or a loss of definition in your jawline and neck, a combined facelift and neck lift can help restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance.

The common signs of ageing you might notice first

Over time, you may see the following changes:

• Loose skin around the cheeks, jawline, and neck
• Deeper folds around the nose and mouth
• Jowls and loss of jaw definition

These changes often appear together, which is why it makes sense to treat the lower face and neck at the same time for more balanced, natural-looking results.

>> Find out more about combined face and necklift surgery

How the two procedures complement each other

A facelift lifts and tightens sagging skin while softening deep folds. A neck lift refines the jawline and removes excess skin under the chin. When both procedures are done at the same time, the results look more balanced – giving the impression of an overall refresh rather than isolated tweaks.

SMAS or Deep Plane? Choosing the right facelift technique

The SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) facelift is a well-established approach that targets deeper tissues to firm up the lower face. For those wanting more noticeable lift or longer-lasting results, a deep plane facelift may be recommended.

In the neck, a platysmaplasty can tighten the underlying muscle, helping to smooth visible neck bands and improve definition under the chin.

Why it’s often better to combine the two

Doing a facelift without touching the neck can leave the neck looking out of sync with the face. Likewise, a neck lift alone won’t address jowls or sagging cheeks. Combining both usually leads to:

• A more natural and even result
• Smoother jawline and neck contours
• Results that last longer overall

What to expect: From consultation to recovery

We’ll arrange at least two consultations to assess your skin, talk through your aims, and create a tailored treatment plan. Recovery takes roughly two weeks, though most people feel presentable a little sooner. We’ll guide you through every step – including full aftercare support – to help ensure a comfortable recovery and the best possible outcome.

Questions we’re often asked

Will people be able to tell I’ve had surgery?
It’s a fair question — and one we hear a lot. At Wentworth Clinic, our ethos is centred around natural-looking results. The aim isn’t to change your face, but to refresh it subtly. You should still look like you, just naturally rejuvenated. People may comment that you look well or rested, but they’re unlikely to guess why.

How long do the results of a facelift and neck lift last?
Results typically last 8 to 10 years, but this depends on things like skin quality, age, and lifestyle. While surgery can’t stop the clock entirely, it can turn it back – and with good skincare and sun protection, your results can age gracefully alongside you.

Will there be visible scarring?
Any surgical procedure involving incisions will leave a scar, but we take great care to keep them discreet. Facelift incisions are usually hidden around the ears and hairline, while the chin lift scar is tucked under the chin. As they heal, they tend to fade well – and we’ll give you guidance on how to support this process.

Is there a ‘right’ age for this type of surgery?
Not really – it’s more about timing than age. Some people start considering surgery in their 40s, others wait until their 60s. If you are bothered by what you see in the mirror, that could be your sign. We’re always happy to have an honest chat and help you decide and guide you in the most suitable direction.

Find out more by visiting the dedicated service page for Facelift and Neck Lift Surgery – Combined Procedure