Medically reviewed by Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS — double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Beverly Hills & Santa Monica · 2026-10-16
Quick answer: A neck lift addresses sagging, banding, and fullness of the neck and under the chin, while a facelift addresses the lower face — jowls and the jawline. Many patients need both for a balanced result, since the face and neck age together. If your concern is only the neck, a neck lift may suffice; an exam determines the right scope.
What a neck lift addresses
Loose neck skin, vertical ‘banding,’ and fullness under the chin — the neck-specific signs of aging. It tightens and refines the neck and jawline from below.
What a facelift addresses
Jowls and sagging along the lower face and jawline. A facelift lifts the lower face; on its own it may not fully address the neck.
Why many need both
The face and neck age together, so treating one can leave the other looking mismatched. Combining them is common for a balanced, natural result — decided at consultation.
Choosing the right scope
If your concern is isolated to the neck, a neck lift alone may be enough. An honest exam tells you whether you need one, the other, or both.
Key points
- Neck lift: neck sagging, banding, under-chin fullness
- Facelift: jowls and lower-face/jawline
- Face and neck age together — many need both
- An exam determines the right combination
Frequently asked questions
Can I get just a neck lift?
Yes, if your concern is isolated to the neck — an exam confirms.
Will a facelift fix my neck?
Not always fully; the neck often needs its own attention.
Should I combine them?
Many patients do for a balanced result; it’s individual.
How do I decide?
An in-person exam of your face and neck determines the right scope.
Related on this site: Neck lift · facelift cost · facelift techniques.
Talk to a specialist in Beverly Hills
To find out whether you need a neck lift, a facelift, or both, Dr. Zandifar sees patients in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica and reviews your anatomy in person before recommending anything. Request a consultation.
Dr. Hootan Zandifar, MD, FACS, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Educational information only, not medical advice.
