How Much is a Neck Lift?

 

Table of Contents

- Introduction

- Average Cost of a Neck Lift

- Factors That Influence the Cost

  - Surgeon’s Fees

  - Geographic Location

  - Extent of Correction Needed

- Additional Expenses to Consider

  - Anesthesia Fees

  - Operating Room Costs

  - Prescription Medications

- Minimally Invasive vs Traditional Neck Lift Cost

  - Laser Neck Lift Cost

  - Minimal Incision Neck Lift Cost

- Combination Procedures and Their Cost

  - Neck Lift and Face Lift

  - Neck Lift and Chin Augmentation

  - Neck Lift and Liposuction

- Payment Plans and Insurance Coverage

  - Payment Plans

  - Insurance Coverage

- How to Get the Most Value For Your Money

  - Choose Your Surgeon Carefully

  - Consider a Minimally Invasive Procedure

  - Combine Procedures

- Conclusion

- FAQs

 

Introduction

 

If you feel self-conscious about the appearance of your neck and are considering getting a neck lift, one of the first and most important questions you probably have is - how much does a neck lift cost? 💰 Understanding the average neck lift cost along with all the factors that influence the price enables you to budget properly and prepare for this investment in your appearance.

 

A neck lift, also referred to as a cervicoplasty or lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the look of the neck by eliminating signs of aging for a rejuvenated, youthful profile. As people reach their 40s and 50s, the neck is one of the most common areas to show noticeable signs of maturing. Loose, sagging skin beneath the chin, vertical bands along the neck, excess fatty deposits, and a “turkey neck” appearance are all concerns a neck lift aims to address. 👵👴

 

This surgical procedure involves making small incisions, often behind the ears or under the chin, to tighten underlying muscle, remove excess fat, and redrape any loose skin in the neck and jawline area. The result is a smoother, tighter, more defined neck contour. Neck lifts are either performed as a standalone procedure or combined with other facial surgeries like a facelift. 💆‍♀️

 

Neck lifts effectively:

- Tighten loose, sagging neck skin

- Reduce excess fatty tissue in the chin/neck

- Define neck and jawline

- Minimize banding neck muscles

- Provide more youthful neck contour 

 

If you want to learn all about the average price range for a neck lift as well as every factor affecting the overall cost, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore the costs involved with neck lifts so you can make an informed decision.👍

 

Average Cost of a Neck Lift

 

The average cost of a neck lift in the United States typically ranges between $4,000 - $8,000. However, the specifics of your case and where you live will determine your individual price.

 

Some patients only need a relatively small amount of loose neck skin removed, which will be on the lower end of the price scale. But others require more extensive tightening and recontouring of a very saggy neck, which raises the cost. The experience and qualifications of your surgeon also cause big price variations.

 

While $4,000 - $8,000 is the general price range you can expect, your unique needs could mean paying anywhere from $3,000 on the very low end, up to $15,000 if you require a complex procedure from a top surgeon in a major metro area. During your consultation, the doctor will examine your neck, listen to your goals, and provide a customized quote. Never choose a surgeon based on cost alone. An inexperienced, discount surgeon could permanently damage your appearance.

 

Factors That Influence the Cost

 

Many different factors impact the overall price tag for a neck lift procedure. The most significant ones include:

 

-         Surgeon’s Fees

 

The cost paid to the board-certified plastic surgeon performing your neck lift is typically the largest portion of the total price. Their fees usually account for around 65-70% of the overall cost.

 

Highly skilled, experienced surgeons in big demand tend to charge more for their time and expertise. Surgeon’s fees generally range from $3,000 on the very low end, up to $7,000 or more from top surgeons in metropolitan regions.

 

It takes extensive training and surgical talent to perform a neck lift properly. Attempting to cut corners and choose someone inexperienced but cheaper could seriously risk your final results. Make sure your surgeon is board certified with proven expertise in neck lifts.

 

-         Geographic Location

 

Where you have your neck lift done also dramatically impacts the price. Getting it completed in a major city like Los Angeles, Miami or New York will likely be more expensive than having it performed in a smaller town.

 

Additionally, contrary to what you might expect, the West Coast and East Coast are generally more costly than the South or Midwest. The difference can be $1,000 - $2,000+ just based on location!

 

Here are some examples of average surgeon’s fees for a neck lift in different metropolitan areas:

 

- Los Angeles or Manhattan: $7,000 - $10,000+

- Chicago or Houston: $5,000 - $7,000

- Atlanta or Dallas: $4,500 - $6,500

- Smaller Town: $3,000 - $5,000

 

Of course, geography isn’t the only consideration when choosing where to have your procedure done. The skill and experience of surgeons in your location are most important.

 

-         Extent of Correction Needed

 

The amount of skin that needs removal and tightening along with the complexity involved also strongly influence cost. In some cases, only a small amount of excess neck skin requires excision. That simpler procedure costs less than an extensive neck lift involving substantial skin tightening and redraping to address lots of sagging.

 

Mild to moderate neck sagging or banding can range from $3,500 - $5,000 in surgical fees. But significantly loose, inelastic neck skin needing substantial tightening and resuspension may cost $6,000 - $10,000+ depending on the extensiveness of the surgery.

 

During your consultation, the surgeon will examine your skin elasticity, degree of excess fat, and severity of banding or loose skin before advising you on the scope of correction required. This helps determine the fee for your custom neck lift plan.

 

Additional Expenses to Consider

 

The surgeon's fee is the largest portion of your total costs, but it is not the only cost. You will also incur expenses for the surgical facility, anesthesia, medications, garments and more. These additional fees are known as “ancillary costs.”

 

Here are some of the key ancillary fees to account for in your neck lift budget:

 

-         Anesthesia Fees

 

General anesthesia or IV sedation are typically used for neck lift procedures to keep patients comfortable and pain-free. This requires the services of a board-certified anesthesiologist. Expect to pay:

 

- General anesthesia fees: $600 - $1,000

- IV sedation costs: $400 - $800

 

-         Operating Room Costs

 

If your neck lift is performed in a hospital or surgical facility instead of a private office-based operating room, you will also have OR fees. These often run $700 - $1,500 depending on the location.

 

-         Prescription Medications

 

Medications like pain medicine and antibiotics prescribed after your procedure may cost you $50 - $150 or more. Some surgeons include a starter medication package.

 

-         Surgical Garment

 

A chin strap or other garment to hold tissues in place post-surgery typically costs $50 - $100.

 

-         Medical Tests

 

If medical tests like blood work or EKGs are required before surgery, expect fees of $100 - $300.

 

-         Post-Surgery Appointments

 

Follow-up appointments in the months after your neck lift may have small fees of $40 - $100 per visit.

 

When budgeting for your procedure, be sure to account for all these potential ancillary costs on top of the surgeon’s fee so there are no financial surprises. Your doctor’s office can outline estimated additional costs in your area.

 

Minimally Invasive vs Traditional Neck Lift Cost

 

There are a few techniques available for neck lifts. The traditional surgical approach with incisions behind the ears or under the chin typically costs more than minimally invasive techniques using smaller incisions or laser energy.

 

-         Laser Neck Lift Cost

 

A laser neck lift uses laser wavelengths instead of excising excess skin to stimulate collagen production and smooth the skin. This technique costs between $2,500 - $5,000 on average. It provides moderate tightening with less downtime but cannot comprehensively address significant sagging.

 

-         Minimal Incision Neck Lift Cost

 

This utilizes shorter, hidden incisions in the skin creases and hairline. It costs approximately $3,000 - $7,000 and does remove skin but is less invasive. However, minimal incision techniques may not be suitable for all candidates, depending on their needs.

 

For moderate sagging or mild banding, a laser lift or minimal incision neck lift are options to consider. But more severe skin laxity and fat excess will likely require a traditional neck lift for optimal results.

 

During your consultation, your surgeon can advise if you are a candidate for a minimally invasive neck rejuvenation option or if a traditional neck lift is recommended to properly address your concerns.

 

Combination Procedures and Their Cost

 

It is quite common for patients to have additional procedures completed along with their neck lift to optimize rejuvenation. In many cases, combining multiple treatments in one surgery can save money compared to having them done separately.

 

Here are some examples of commonly combined procedures and their average cost:

 

-         Neck Lift and Face Lift

 

Because the aging process impacts both the lower face and neck, these two procedures are frequently performed together. Combining a neck lift and a lower facelift in one surgery typically costs $10,000 - $15,000 total.

 

Having both done together means paying only one anesthesia and facility fee. It also reduces your downtime for recovery compared to two separate procedures.

 

-         Neck Lift and Chin Augmentation

 

A neck lift addresses skin laxity but does not change the structure or shape of the chin. Some patients choose to have chin augmentation done using an implant to improve a receding chin.

 

When combining a neck lift and chin implant in one surgery, the total cost is typically $5,000 - $11,000 depending on the chosen implant type and surgeon fees.

 

-         Neck Lift and Liposuction

 

Liposuction is sometimes incorporated with a neck lift to remove stubborn fat pockets or provide additional contouring that skin tightening alone cannot address.

 

The average cost for having neck liposuction or submental liposuction of the chin/neck region performed along with a neck lift is approximately $6,500 - $12,000.

 

Again, combining multiple treatments saves on OR time and anesthesia. And recovery is faster with one surgery versus two separate ones. 

 

Talk to your surgeon during your consultation about whether you might benefit from pairing additional procedures with your neck lift to enhance the overall rejuvenation.

 

Payment Plans and Insurance Coverage

 

Most cosmetic surgery practices offer flexible financing options and payment plans to make procedures more affordable, as the full cost is often not paid upfront. There are also instances where insurance may cover a small portion of the cost.

 

-         Payment Plans

 

Reputable plastic surgeons understand that many patients cannot pay the full price all at once. That’s why they make payments manageable through these options:

 

- Pay a deposit like 20-30% upfront, then pay the remaining balance off in fixed monthly installments over 6-12 months

- Apply for third party financing through companies like CareCredit, which provide special financing or credit cards for cosmetic surgery costs

- Ask if the practice offers any in-house financing or payment programs

 

Payment plans make procedures affordable by breaking costs into manageable chunks rather than one large lump sum. Just be sure to understand all terms and interest rates before signing any financing agreement.

 

-         Insurance Coverage

 

Cosmetic neck lift procedures are not typically covered by insurance. However, in certain circumstances where a functional problem like sleep apnea is present alongside the cosmetic issues, a small portion of the cost *may* be covered.

 

For instance, if having excess neck tissue and sagging corrected is expected to significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms, insurance might pay for the portion related to fixing the functional breathing issue. But the part of the procedure only addressing cosmetic enhancement would not be covered.

 

The only way to find out if any costs are covered is to go through a formal pre-authorization process with your insurance company. Have your surgeon submit a letter explaining the medical necessity before proceeding with surgery.

 

Overall though, neck lifts are generally considered elective cosmetic surgery, making them ineligible for insurance reimbursement.

 

How to Get the Most Value for Your Money

 

While a neck lift is a major investment, you can take certain steps to ensure you maximize your return and get the most value for the money spent.

 

-         Choose Your Surgeon Carefully

 

Be willing to spend more on an extremely qualified, highly experienced board-certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye and extensive neck lift training. This gives you the best chance for gorgeous, natural-looking results that justify the investment long-term.

 

-         Consider a Minimally Invasive Procedure

 

If you only have mild sagging and muscle banding, more affordable laser neck lift or minimal incision options may give you satisfactory improvement. While they cannot provide the dramatic tightening of a full neck lift, the results might meet your needs and save money.

 

-         Combine Procedures

 

Look at combining your neck lift with other treatments you’ve been considering like a facelift, chin augmentation or liposuction. Combining multiple procedures performed in one surgery saves big on anesthesia and OR costs versus separate surgeries.

 

Conclusion

 

While a neck lift costs anywhere from $4,000 - $8,000 on average, your specific price depends on factors like:

 

- Surgeon’s fees based on their skills and experience

- Geographic location where you live

- Complexity of correction you need

- Whether you have additional procedures done simultaneously

 

Be sure to account for all potential costs - not just the surgeon’s fee. And find an experienced, reputable surgeon you trust to provide beautiful, natural outcomes that make this investment in your confidence worthwhile! 😊👍

 

FAQs

 

What is the cheapest neck lift option?

 

The most affordable neck lift technique is typically a laser neck lift, which costs approximately $2,500 - $4,000 on average. It provides milder improvements with less downtime but cannot comprehensively address significant sagging.

 

Does a neck lift hurt?

 

There is some discomfort, tightness, and swelling after a neck lift procedure. But your surgeon will prescribe pain medicine to keep you comfortable during recovery. Within 1-2 weeks, most of the acute pain subsides.

 

Can a neck lift get rid of jowls or turkey neck?

 

A neck lift can greatly improve the appearance of jowls or a “turkey neck” by tightening loose, sagging skin along the jawline and neck. However, for more severe jowling, a lower facelift may be recommended.

 

Is neck liposuction a cheaper alternative to a neck lift?

 

Neck liposuction alone costs less than a full neck lift, around $2,500 - $5,500. But it only removes fat without tightening loose skin. A neck lift addresses both fat and skin laxity for more complete reshaping.

 

How long does swelling last after a neck lift?

 

Swelling and bruising are normal for the first 2-4 weeks following a neck lift. Mild residual swelling may persist for 2-3 months. Using cold compresses can help minimize swelling.

 

What can I do to recover quickly from a neck lift?

 

Follow all your surgeon’s postoperative instructions carefully. Get ample rest, avoid strenuous activities for 3-4 weeks, and take it easy. Cold compresses, light lymphatic massage, eating well, and staying hydrated can all help speed healing.

 

When will I see the final results of my neck lift?

 

You’ll notice improvements right away. But allow 3-6 months for all swelling to fully resolve before your final results are apparent. Most patients see the ultimate outcome around the 6 months mark once everything has completely settled.

 

How long do the results of a neck lift last?

 

When performed by an experienced, skilled cosmetic surgeon, the youthful results of a neck lift can last 7-10 years or longer. Maintaining your weight and protecting your skin from sun damage can help extend the longevity of your results.

 

What are the risks or side effects of a neck lift?

 

Temporary side effects like swelling, bruising, numbness and scarring are common. Rare risks include bleeding, infection, delayed healing, loss of hair around the incision, asymmetry, and numbness lasting longer than a few weeks.

 

How can I pay for a neck lift without insurance coverage?

 

Most plastic surgeons offer payment plans or financing options through companies like CareCredit to pay for a neck lift through fixed monthly installments. This allows you to pay overtime rather than all at once.

 

Will the scars from my neck lift be noticeable?

 

When performed by a skilled surgeon, the incisions for a neck lift procedure heal into scars that are thin, faint and strategically hidden within the natural contours and creases of your skin and hairline.