How to Get Rid of Excess Neck Skin

By: Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

4/4/2025

If you've noticed sagging skin or wrinkles forming around your neck, you're not alone. At SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, Dr. Sean Kelishadi works with patients who want to restore a smoother, firmer neck. While skincare and healthy habits can slow some signs of aging, they usually aren't enough to reverse loose or hanging skin. For those seeking a more youthful and sculpted neckline, a surgical procedure like a neck lift may offer the most effective solution.

Why does excess neck skin happen, and how can you prevent it?

Loose or hanging skin under the chin and along the neck can develop from a mix of aging, genetics, and lifestyle factors. Over time, collagen and elastin — two proteins that keep skin firm— begin to break down. The result is drooping or wrinkled skin that can be tough to manage with topical treatments alone.

While some causes can't be avoided, there are ways to help prevent or slow the progression of excess neck skin. Small changes can make a big difference in the long run. Consider these tips to support your skin:

  • Wear sunscreen on your neck daily to protect against UV damage
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support skin health
  • Use skincare products with retinol or peptides to boost collagen

These habits can help improve skin tone and elasticity, but they may not be enough to correct more severe sagging — this is where neck lift surgery can help.

What are the benefits of neck lift surgery?

When home remedies and noninvasive treatments don't deliver the results you want, neck lift surgery may be the answer. This procedure is designed to tighten muscles, remove extra skin, and refine the contours of the jawline and neck. It provides more dramatic, long-lasting results than temporary solutions.

A Newport Beach neck lift offers several advantages, especially for those struggling with more advanced signs of aging. Here are just a few of the benefits:

  • Reduce excess neck skin and sagging
  • Remove vertical banding or creases in the neck
  • Create a more youthful, defined jawline

By addressing both the skin and the underlying structure, a neck lift produces a natural, rejuvenated appearance. Most patients experience a boost in confidence and feel more refreshed overall.

What is recovery like after a neck lift in Orange County?

One of the most significant concerns patients have is how long recovery will take after neck lift surgery. Fortunately, most individuals find the healing process manageable with some simple post-op care. Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness are common for the first several days, but these symptoms gradually fade.

To help support a smooth recovery, your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions. These typically include:

  • Wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling
  • Avoiding strenuous activity for the first couple of weeks
  • Keeping your head elevated to reduce discomfort

Most people return to normal routines within 10 – 14 days. Results continue to improve as swelling subsides, revealing a firmer and smoother neckline.

Boost your confidence with a Newport Beach neck lift

If you're considering a neck lift, Dr. Sean Kelishadi at SSK Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA can help you achieve the refreshed look you want. His customized approach to neck lift surgery is designed to tighten skin, refine contours, and restore youthful definition to your profile. To learn more about your options for a Newport Beach neck lift, contact us to schedule your private consultation today.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.