A neck lift is a cosmetic procedure that can be used to remove excess fat and tighten sagging skin on the neck.
Typical costs:
A neck lift alone typically costs between $4,000 and $8,000, depending on the patient and what needs to be done. However, a neck lift often is done in conjunction with additional surgery, such as a facelift, which can bring the total to $16,000 or more, according to plastic surgeons at RealSelf.com[1] . Cruise Plastic Surgery in California charges $3,950 to $7,500 for a neck lift. Turkle & Associates[2] in Indiana charges $5,000. And the Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery[3] , in California, charges about $6,000.
A neck lift is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it typically is not covered by health insurance.
During an initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss patient goals, examine the neck, and discuss the neck lift procedure, risks and cost.
For a neck lift, after the patient is placed under either general or 'twilight' anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision under the chin and/or in front of or behind the ears, and will then remove excess skin and tissue and possibly tighten the neck muscles, using sutures to secure skin and tissue in its new position. A neck lift takes about three hours and usually is done as an outpatient procedure. The Cleveland Clinic[4] has an overview of the procedure.
During follow-up visits, the doctor will check healing progress and patient satisfaction.
Additional costs:
The doctor probably will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics following surgery.
A compression garment[5] that costs about $30 to $35 must be worn after surgery.
Recovery typically requires ten days to two weeks off work.
Discounts:
Many surgeons offer discounts to patients having multiple procedures. Patients getting a neck lift sometimes also choose to have liposuction, a face lift or a chin implant.
Shopping for a neck lift:
A good candidate for a neck lift would be a non-smoker in good health who is close to ideal weight.
Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has privileges at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. Both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons[6] and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery[7] offer referral services. It also is a good idea to ask to see before-and-after photographs of previous patients.
Risks of a neck lift include bleeding, infection, injury to nerves, scarring, complications from anesthesia and even death.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
10 Quick and Inexpensive Home Makeover Projects To Do While At Home You may not be able to host the large family gathering for the holidays, but there are still many ways to pick up items curbside to spruce up your indoor space for your everyday enjoyment and to bring a more festive spirit. || Posted December 30 2020
10 Key Ways to Prepare for Extreme Snow Forecasters are predicting a true nor'easter will hit the eastern and central states with rain, thunderstorms, ice, snow and high winds over the Thanksgiving weekend. It's crucial to plan ahead, before bad weather hits. || Posted November 26 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
shoulder mri Paid: 8000.00 Seriously, 8K for an MRI before all the secret insurance kicks in. I was stuck with a 1200 bill and my insurance is pretty good. This is insane for a 20 minute procedure with no nurse assistance... [more]
what should have cost under 100 Paid: 399.67 had my back wheel stuck on someone's driveway and I was pulled out as easily as a tractor could have done... [more]
Why is dental insurance stuck in the 80's? Paid: 55000.00 In 1986, I started my first full time Big Girl job, which came with options for medical insurance that ranged from "Volkswagon to Cadillac, and everything in between" which was up to me to choose based on my needs, what I could af... [more]