Face and Neck Lift (Rhytidectomy) & Contouring

As we age, changes beneath the skin—such as loss of elasticity, shifting fat, and weaker supportive tissues—can lead to sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck. These changes often show up as jowls, deeper folds, and a less defined profile.

At Columbia, our surgeons use advanced techniques that restore the underlying tissue and muscle structure rather than simply tightening the skin, leading to a natural, even look and longer-lasting results.

What Is a Facelift and Neck Lift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy (rai-teh-DEK-teh-mee), is a surgical procedure that lifts and repositions the deeper tissues of the mid and lower face—including the cheeks, jowls, and jawline—while removing excess skin.

A facelift can be combined with a neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, to lift and tighten the tissues below the chin and in the front of the neck.

Face and neck lifts are popular choices to address:

• Sagging skin in the cheeks and lower face
• Deep folds around the nose and mouth
• Jowls along the jawline
• Loss of definition in the jawline and chin
• Loose skin in the neck

Face and Neck Lifts at Columbia

Our facial plastic surgeons are experts in multiple face and neck lift techniques. Your surgical team will consult with you to discuss which approach best fits your goals. We offer:

• Mini facelift (Mini-Lift): This state-of-the-art, minimally invasive approach targets mild sagging in the lower face and jawline. The Mini-Lift is typically recommended for younger individuals with early signs of aging looking for a subtle, refreshed appearance. This technique involves a few short incisions that are hidden in front of the ears, leading to a faster recovery.

• Traditional (full) facelift: This surgical procedure addresses more pronounced sagging and deep creases in the cheeks, jowls, and jawline, as well as parts of the neck. Longer incisions are made to reposition deeper tissues for a more noticeable, longer-lasting transformation.

Facial and Neck Contouring

In some cases, your surgeon may recommend alternative or additional techniques to enhance definition and balance. Our experts also provide:

• Neck and chin liposuction: Liposuction removes fat beneath the chin or along the jawline to create a more sculpted, defined profile.
• Fat transfer (fat grafting): This procedure uses liposuction to remove fat from other parts of your body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and inject it in areas of the face, such as the cheeks, under the eyes, or in folds around the mouth. This helps to soften deep lines and restore volume to hollow areas, improving overall facial harmony.

What to Expect From a Facelift, Neck Lift, and Contouring

Mini-Lifts are performed in the office using local anesthesia. Traditional facelift surgery, neck lifts, and facial contouring can be performed using general anesthesia, intravenous (IV) sedation, or local anesthesia. The length of surgery depends on the techniques used.

After surgery, you’ll likely experience swelling and bruising for a few weeks. You’ll notice results early on, though the final outcomes will appear over time as the swelling fades and tissues settle into their new position. Your surgical team will provide you with all of the necessary instructions to promote healing and lasting results.