If a “turkey wattle,” double chin, or neck bands make you look older than you’d like, Dr. Daines can help you restore streamlined, elegant contours with lasting results that never look overdone. With his precision, artistry, and commitment to safety, Dr. Daines turns back the clock while preserving the essence of who you are.  

What Is a Neck Lift? 

A neck lift focuses on tightening loose skin and muscles that create the appearance of a turkey wattle or horizontal wrinkles along the neck and jawline. The procedure: 

  • Tightens weakened neck muscles (like the platysma) 
  • Removes excess fat and loose skin in the neck area 
  • Re-drapes and smooths the remaining tissue for natural-looking contours 
  • Enhances jawline definition and minimizes sagging under the chin 

Dr. Daines often combines a neck lift with his Signature Facelift to create remarkable, long-lasting facial rejuvenation results that look refined and enduring.  

Dr. Daines examining patient

How Is a Neck Lift Performed? 

Dr. Daines performs neck lift surgery as an outpatient procedure using either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on your preferences and Dr. Daines’ expert recommendation. As a stand-alone procedure, a traditional neck lift usually takes between 1 and 3 hours. The operation and recovery will take longer if combined with other procedures, such as a deep plane facelift

During neck lift surgery, Daines takes care to place small, discreet incisions in natural creases to minimize visible scarring. They are typically hidden:

  • Behind the ears and along the hairline 
  • Under the chin, if additional access is needed for fat removal or muscle tightening 

Through these incisions, Dr. Daines may: 

  • Remove or reposition fat along the jawline 
  • Tighten the platysma muscles to improve definition 
  • Redistribute fat to restore youthful-looking fullness where volume has been lost 

Once these adjustments are complete, Dr. Daines closes the sutures, creating a smoother, firmer contour that enhances the jawline and neckline with natural-looking results. 

A Reputation Built on Results

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I had a fantastic experience with a Dr.Daines. I really appreciated his low key vibe- it made the whole...
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I’ve been a patient of Dr. Daines for 11 years and he has been not only a fantastic plastic surgeon...
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My whole experience with Dr. Steven Daines was wonderful from start to finish. His office is so beautiful...
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Dr Daines is an incredibly talented physician. His beside manner and willingness to recommend the best...

“I interviewed three different facial plastic surgeons for my lower face and neck lift with laser. My dermatologist recommended Dr. Daines, and I’m so glad he did. This was the best experience I could have hoped for. Dr. Daines is great. Funny, honest, a really nice guy, and most importantly, listens to what you say. He came in on a Sunday for me. The office is beautiful, and the staff is great.” 

Corrine R. – 5-Star Google review  

What Is Recovery Like After a Neck Lift? 

You may feel some tightness and soreness in the general neck area immediately after surgery. It’s also normal to experience some mild to moderate bruising and swelling. Compression bandages help minimize swelling and accelerate the healing process.  

Even though your recovery is unique, here is a typical timeline following a neck lift: 

  • Days 1–3: Mild swelling, bruising, and tightness. Elevate your head, limit neck motions, and follow care instructions. 
  • Days 7–10: Swelling improves; most comfort returns; many patients resume light activity. 
  • Weeks 2–3: Return to work and social settings; tissues continue to heal and settle. 
  • Weeks 4–6: Swelling subsides; start gentle movement as approved. 
  • Months 3–6: Final neck contours emerge; incision lines continue to fade. 

With proper care, your revitalized jawline and smooth neck contours will enhance your profile with seamless, long-lasting results. 

View our neck lift post-op care instructions.

Middle-aged female model

How Much Does a Neck Lift Cost in Newport Beach? 

Dr. Daines customizes each neck lift surgery based on technique, anatomy, and whether he combines it with other procedures. That means the cost varies from patient to patient. Factors that influence pricing include: 

  • The extent of skin removal or muscle tightening 
  • Inclusion of fat reduction or repositioning 
  • Anesthesia and facility fees 

While we do not post pricing online, our team will walk you through your cost and payment options, including financing. We’re committed to transparency and will ensure you have all the information you need before making a decision. 

Dr. Daines

Why Choose Dr. Steven M. Daines?

When it comes to your face, experience isn’t optional; it’s essential. Dr. Steven M. Daines is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery, and he’s considered a top neck lift surgeon in Orange County.   

In addition to his experience and expertise, Dr. Daines has a down-to-earth demeanor that immediately helps patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns with him. With a warm, communicative style and a focus on personalized care, Dr. Daines takes time to listen to your goals and develop a custom surgical plan that reflects your vision and enhances your confidence.  

He has dedicated his career to facial rejuvenation procedures, earning a reputation for achieving authentic, balanced results that never compromise facial expression or individuality.  

Meet Dr. Daines

Neck Lift

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do neck lift results last?
With healthy lifestyle habits and good skin care, results typically endure for 10 years or longer, though natural aging continues.
Will there be visible scars?
Scars are minimal and well concealed. Dr. Daines places incisions discreetly behind the ears and under the chin, and once healed, they fade to thin lines that are rarely noticeable.
Is recovery painful?
Discomfort is usually mild and manageable with prescribed medication. You may feel tightness and soreness, but these aftereffects improve quickly.
Are nonsurgical alternatives effective?
While treatments like KYBELLA®, dermal fillers, or BOTOX® can help in some cases, they can’t address loose skin or muscle laxity. A neck lift remains the most thorough, lasting solution.

Consult With a Facial Plastic Surgery Expert  

Loose, wrinkled neck skin is frustrating and can add years to your appearance. A neck lift performed by Dr. Daines creates a sleek neck and defined jawline that look great in a profile view. His reputation for producing remarkable results attracts neck lift patients from Irvine, Laguna Beach, Costa Mesa, Laguna Niguel, and throughout Orange County and beyond.

Dr. Daines looking at patient's face

Dr. Steven M. Daines, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, has carefully reviewed the information on this page to ensure accuracy and patient safety.