You notice it when you're talking on Zoom. In candid photos. In the mirror at just the wrong angle. The clean, contoured neckline you used to take for granted has softened, muddied by loose skin, excess fat, and a creeping loss of definition that no amount of skincare can fix. You still feel like yourself. Your neck just hasn’t gotten the memo.
A Deep Plane Neck Lift offers a clinically advanced, anatomy-first solution to restore a defined jawline and a more youthful appearance. By addressing not only the surface but also the foundational structures underneath—such as the platysma muscle, fascia, and fat—this technique can reshape the neck and jaw with precision and longevity. Unlike traditional neck lifts, which rely heavily on tightening skin, the deep plane technique repositions tissue in its natural direction to create results that are refined, not stretched.
At Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery with a particular focus on deep plane facelift surgery and advanced neck rejuvenation techniques. We approach every Deep Plane Neck Lift as a custom surgical procedure, designed around your anatomy, goals, and desire for natural-looking results.
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A Deep Plane Neck Lift is a highly targeted cosmetic procedure that goes beyond surface tightening. It focuses on the release and repositioning of deeper anatomical structures—namely, the platysma muscle, facial tissue, and supportive fascia layer—to reshape the neck and restore youthful definition. This surgical technique treats advanced signs of aging in the neck, especially sagging jowls, loose skin, and excess fat under the chin.
In contrast to traditional facelifts or mini facelifts that tighten skin superficially, the deep plane lift releases facial ligaments and repositions muscle and fat layers in one unified motion. This approach creates smoother transitions across the neck, jawline, and midface without producing a wind-swept or over-pulled appearance. It also improves longevity, with many patients seeing dramatic results that last 10–15 years.
Often, a Deep Plane Neck Lift includes submental muscular medialization—rejoining separated platysma bands—and may be performed alongside other procedures like eyelid surgery or a brow lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Most patients exploring facelift surgery have heard of the standard neck lift. Traditional facelifts address aging skin by trimming and tightening excess skin without altering the deeper structures that have shifted over time. While this can create improvement, the results often fade faster and may look less natural.
In a Deep Plane Neck Lift, your surgeon goes further, lifting the deeper layers that have descended with the aging process. The technique involves a vertical release and repositioning of the entire fascia-muscle-fat unit. This not only enhances the neckline but subtly lifts the lower face, offering harmony between facial regions. For patients in Memphis seeking long-term improvement of sagging skin and deep structural changes, the deep plane technique is considered one of the most advanced surgical options available.
A well-defined neck and jawline can dramatically change the way your entire face is perceived. For many patients, restoring these contours means feeling more aligned with how they carry themselves day to day—sharp, confident, and fully present.
The Deep Plane Neck Lift offers a deeper, more structural solution for those looking to correct signs of aging that extend beyond loose skin. By addressing the platysma muscle, repositioning underlying fat, and lifting along the natural tension lines of the neck, this procedure delivers lasting results that feel both subtle and striking.
Benefits of a Deep Plane Neck Lift may include:
The outcome is more than skin-deep. For many patients, it’s about reclaiming the structure that once framed their confidence.
You may not be seeking dramatic change—just a version of your neck and jawline that feels familiar again. If you’ve started noticing sagging beneath the chin, visible platysma banding, or a softened jawline that no longer reflects the rest of your facial structure, you may be a strong candidate for a Deep Plane Neck Lift.
This procedure is especially well-suited for individuals with moderate to severe neck laxity, particularly those dealing with drooping skin, vertical bands, or “double chin” fullness that hasn’t responded to non-surgical options. Ideal candidates are typically in good overall health, with realistic expectations about recovery and results, and are looking for a longer-lasting, more structural correction, not just a surface-level improvement. It’s also an excellent option for patients who have never had a neck lift before, or those dissatisfied with the limited results of a prior, more superficial technique.
Because the Deep Plane Neck Lift corrects aging at the deeper anatomical level, it’s often most effective for patients in their 40s to 60s who are beginning to see more pronounced changes in the jawline, neck, and submental area. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess whether this procedure aligns with your anatomy and goals or if another approach, such as platysmaplasty or combined facial surgery, would offer the best outcome.
Your experience begins with a comprehensive consultation at Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis, where your surgeon takes time to understand not just the physical changes you’ve noticed, but how they’ve impacted the way you see yourself. This isn’t a rushed checklist—it’s a personalized conversation about your facial anatomy, goals, and the deeper reasons behind your interest in a Deep Plane Neck Lift.
During this visit, your surgeon will examine the quality of your skin, the condition of the platysma muscle, the presence of excess fat or fullness beneath the chin, and overall neck structure. They’ll explain how the deep plane technique compares to other procedures like platysmaplasty or traditional neck lifts, and help you determine which approach best fits your goals and anatomy. You’ll also discuss your medical history and lifestyle to ensure you’re a safe and appropriate candidate for surgery.
If you decide to move forward, our team will guide you through every step of the preparation process. You may be asked to pause certain medications or supplements that affect healing, avoid nicotine use in the weeks leading up to surgery, and arrange for help at home following the procedure. We’ll also provide clear instructions around pre-operative hygiene, activity restrictions, and timing, so you feel fully supported, informed, and confident heading into your surgical date.
On the day of your procedure, you’ll arrive at our accredited surgical facility in Memphis, where your comfort, safety, and privacy come first. After reviewing your surgical plan, anesthesia will be administered—typically general anesthesia or deep IV sedation, depending on your needs and preferences.
Your surgeon will make small, well-concealed incisions behind the ears and possibly under the chin. Through these access points, the deeper structures of the neck—particularly the platysma muscle, fascia layer, and underlying fat—are carefully released and repositioned. If needed, platysmaplasty is performed to repair or tighten the separated muscle bands that contribute to vertical banding and lack of definition.
Unlike more superficial techniques, the Deep Plane Neck Lift repositions entire tissue layers in a more natural vector, enhancing the transition between the jawline, submental area, and upper neck. This deeper support creates smoother, more durable results and minimizes tension on the skin, helping to avoid the overly taut or “operated” look.
The surgery typically takes 2.5 to 4 hours, after which you’ll recover under observation before being released to rest at home with a trusted caregiver.
Healing after a Deep Plane Neck Lift unfolds gradually but predictably, with each phase designed to support long-term results. In the first few days, it’s common to experience swelling, tightness, and some bruising, especially around the jawline and under the chin. Most patients notice visible improvement within the first week, and by the two-week mark, many feel confident returning to work, social activities, or errands that don’t involve heavy lifting or intense physical exertion.
Because this procedure repositions the deeper structures of the neck rather than just removing excess skin, the outcome looks more natural and tends to last significantly longer than traditional approaches. The neck begins to settle into its new, lifted shape over the following weeks, with full refinement continuing for up to three to six months. Patients often comment on how organic the results feel: not tight or obvious, but like a younger version of themselves slowly coming into focus.
Your surgeon will walk you through detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incisions, when to resume skincare routines, and what signs to look for during recovery. Protecting your skin from sun exposure, avoiding high-impact exercise in the early stages, and following your customized recovery plan are all essential to ensuring smooth healing and optimal results. With proper care and healthy habits, most patients enjoy the benefits of their Deep Plane Neck Lift for 10 to 15 years or longer—a meaningful investment in both form and confidence.
The cost of a Deep Plane Neck Lift in Memphis can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your anatomy, whether the procedure includes platysmaplasty, and if it’s combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments. Because this surgery is highly customized, your final quote will reflect the time, technique, and level of precision required to meet your goals.
When you schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, we’ll provide a personalized surgical plan and a transparent breakdown of your total investment. This typically includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, use of our accredited surgical facility, and all pre- and post-operative appointments. In some cases, adjunct procedures like chin augmentation or fat contouring may be discussed as part of a more comprehensive approach to harmony in the lower face and upper neck.
While we understand cost is an important consideration, the long-term value of choosing a specialized technique—performed by experienced surgeons who understand the anatomy and artistry of the neck—cannot be overstated. Our team is happy to walk you through financing options and help you make a confident, informed decision about your care.
When the shape of your neck no longer reflects how you feel—sharp, composed, fully present—a thoughtful surgical approach can restore more than just definition. It can bring you back into alignment with yourself.
At Plastic Surgery Group of Memphis, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in advanced techniques like the Deep Plane Neck Lift, helping patients reclaim their contours with precision and care. Whether you’re looking to correct vertical banding, smooth drooping skin, or reestablish a clean, natural jawline, our team will guide you through every step with expertise and honesty.
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, we invite you to schedule a private consultation and begin a conversation with one of Memphis’ most trusted facial surgery teams.
Not exactly. A Deep Plane Facelift focuses on lifting the mid-to-lower face, while a Deep Plane Neck Lift targets deeper structural layers of the neck and jawline. The techniques are related, but tailored to different anatomical areas. In some cases, patients may benefit from combining both procedures for a cohesive result.
Platysmaplasty is a component of neck rejuvenation that specifically addresses the platysma muscle, tightening or reconnecting it when vertical bands are present. A Deep Plane Neck Lift, on the other hand, involves deeper tissue repositioning and sculpting of the entire neck, including the fascia, fat, and muscle layers. Many Deep Plane Neck Lifts include platysmaplasty as part of the technique.
No. A mini neck lift typically addresses mild skin laxity and is a more superficial procedure with limited correction. It’s best suited for younger patients with early signs of aging. A Deep Plane Neck Lift is a more comprehensive surgical solution that lifts and repositions the structural layers of the neck for longer-lasting, more dramatic improvements.
It can help, but not directly. Deep Plane Neck Lift surgery improves structural sagging and neck banding. If horizontal lines—often caused by repetitive downward gaze or aging skin—are a major concern, your surgeon may recommend combining the lift with laser resurfacing, microneedling, or other skin-focused treatments for optimal smoothing.
Liposuction can remove excess fat beneath the chin but doesn’t address muscle laxity, drooping skin, or platysma separation. Deep neck contouring, as performed in a Deep Plane Neck Lift, sculpts the entire area by tightening muscles, removing or repositioning fat, and lifting the underlying layers for a more defined and balanced profile.
