When considering facial rejuvenation, the neck is often the area that bothers people the most. Sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and muscle banding can make you look older than you feel. If you are researching solutions, you have likely come across the terms "central neck lift" and "full neck lift."

While both procedures aim to restore a youthful, contoured neckline, they target different issues and use different surgical techniques. Understanding the difference is crucial to choosing the right procedure for your specific anatomy.

What is a Central Neck Lift?

A central neck lift, sometimes called a submental neck lift or an anterior neck lift, focuses purely on the area directly beneath the chin and the front of the neck.

In this procedure, the surgeon makes a single, small incision hidden in the natural crease under your chin. Through this small opening, they can remove excess fat, tighten the underlying neck muscles (the platysma) to eliminate vertical bands, and sculpt the jawline.

The catch is that a central neck lift does not remove excess skin from the sides of the neck. It is generally best for younger patients, usually in their 40s or early 50s, who have good skin elasticity but are struggling with a double chin or visible muscle bands right in the front.

What is a Full Neck Lift?

A full neck lift, or a traditional lower rhytidectomy, is a much more comprehensive procedure. It addresses the entire neck, from the chin all the way down to the collarbone, as well as the jawline and jowls.

For a full neck lift, incisions are made under the chin and also extend around and behind the ears. This allows the surgeon to not only tighten the front neck muscles but also pull the deeper tissues and skin backward and upward. The crucial difference here is the ability to trim away significant amounts of loose, excess skin.

This procedure is typically recommended for patients in their 50s, 60s, or older who have extensive skin laxity, heavy jowls, and a pronounced "turkey neck" that requires skin removal, not just muscle tightening.

The Key Differences at a Glance

• The Focus Area: A central neck lift targets only the front of the neck and under the chin. A full neck lift addresses the entire neck and the jawline.

• The Incisions: A central neck lift uses one small incision under the chin. A full neck lift requires incisions under the chin and around both ears.

• Skin Removal: A central neck lift does not remove loose skin from the sides of the neck. A full neck lift physically removes significant amounts of sagging skin.

• Recovery Time: Because it is less invasive, a central neck lift usually has a faster, easier recovery compared to a full neck lift, which requires more downtime for the extensive incisions to heal.

Which One is Right for You?

If your main concern is a double chin, a pocket of fat, or distinct vertical muscle bands in the front of your neck, and your skin still snaps back relatively well, a central neck lift might be exactly what you need.

If you have significant loose, hanging skin, heavy jowls that blur your jawline, and deep folds across your entire neck, a full neck lift will be necessary to achieve a smooth, youthful result.

Conclusion

Both the central and full neck lift offer incredible, long-lasting results when performed on the right patient. The best way to know which procedure will deliver the sculpted, elegant profile you desire is to have a professional evaluate the quality of your skin and the structure of your neck.

Ready to Restore Your Neckline?

If you are unsure which neck lift is right for you, we are here to provide clarity and expert guidance. Book a consultation with our experienced cosmetic surgeons today. We will carefully examine your facial anatomy, listen to your goals, and design a customised surgical plan to give you the most natural, beautiful results possible.

Contact us now to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a more confident, rejuvenated you!