Sagging Neckline: Neck Lift Surgery or Skin Tightening Treatment?
Santa Barbara cosmetic surgeon Dr. Terry Perkins is an expert in facial cosmetic surgery and extremely knowledgeable in skin tightening procedures. He runs a Santa Barbara cosmetic surgery practice and plays an active role in Evolutions Medical & Day Spa, of which he is the founder and Medical Director. So when people come to see him because they are bothered by loose skin in their neck area, he can offer more choices than just plastic surgery. Dr. Perkins answers questions about skin tightening and neck lift surgery in this blog post:
Are the Total Tightening treatments painful and is there downtime after the treatment?
Dr. Perkins: Most clients consider it comfortable and a topical numbing cream is usually not needed, but available for someone who is more sensitive. There may be some redness or swelling directly after the treatment that usually subsides within a few hours. Otherwise there is no downtime.
Who is a good candidate for Total Tightening?
Dr. Perkins: Total Tightening is good for those who have minimal looseness in the neck area. The new collagen that is stimulated from this treatment not only lends itself to tightening of the area, but will also create smoother skin. Clients are very happy with this result.
![]() |
“Before” and “After” Neck Lift Surgery by Dr. Perkins |
How is Neck Lift surgery done?
Dr. Perkins: Incisions are made behind the ears and a small incision is made under the chin. Then I tie the muscles to create a sling effect to better support the neck area and a suspension suture may be used to give more long-lasting support. If necessary, excess skin will be removed. This is a surgical procedure so the patient will have a combination of local anesthesia, oral and intravenous sedation to provide relaxation and lack of awareness throughout the procedure. General anesthesia is not used. There is downtime for this procedure. People usually take 7 to 10 days off work for recuperation.
Who is a good candidate for Neck Lift surgery?
Dr. Perkins: In general, a person who has moderate to severe skin laxity in the neck area is a good candidate for Neck Lift surgery. Neck Lift surgery can really redefine the lower half of a person’s face. More definition in the neck and jawline can take years off a person’s appearance.
Any additional advice?
Dr. Perkins: Whether you have neck lift surgery or a skin tightening or no treatment at all, I always remind people that they can help to stave off wrinkles and sagging skin by treating their neck area as they treat their face. The delicate skin needs to be cared for through proper cleansing, moisturizing, and, of course, daily application of an SPF broad spectrum sunscreen.
If your saggy neckline is in need of help, contact Dr. Perkins. Call Cosmetic Surgery Center in Santa Barbara at 805-563-0000 for a consultation.