Neck Lift in Gangnam: Tightening Loose Skin and Neck Bands
The short answer
A neck lift (platysmaplasty) tightens loose neck skin and the platysma muscle, which causes vertical neck bands, and often removes excess fat, creating a smoother neck and a sharper angle under the jaw. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 8–18 million, takes about 2–4 hours, and uses a small incision under the chin plus incisions behind the ears. Plan about 2 weeks in Seoul; results commonly last 10 years or more.
Key facts
- What it treats: Loose neck skin, platysma bands, fat under the chin, blunted jaw-neck angle
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 8–18 million
- Operating time: About 2–4 hours
- Anesthesia: General or deep sedation
- Incisions: Under the chin and behind the ears
- Recommended stay: About 14 days
- Typical longevity: About 10 years or more
What a neck lift is
The neck often shows age earlier than the face. Skin loosens, fat collects under the chin, and the platysma, a thin sheet of muscle under the neck skin, separates at the midline into two vertical bands. The clean angle between your jaw and neck softens, and creams or devices have limited effect once the muscle and skin have stretched.
A neck lift, also called platysmaplasty, addresses each layer. Through a small incision under the chin, the surgeon removes excess fat, and tightens the platysma by stitching its edges together in the midline, like a corset. Through incisions behind the ears, the skin and muscle are lifted backward and excess skin is removed. In some patients, deeper fat or enlarged glands under the muscle are also contoured to define the neck angle further.
Types of neck lift in Korea
Traditional neck lift
Skin and platysma tightening through incisions under the chin and behind the ears.
Neck lift plus liposuction
Adds liposuction under the chin and along the jaw for patients with fullness; see the double chin condition.
Neck lift plus facelift
Combined with a lower face lift or full facelift when jowls are present.
Deep neck lift
Contours deeper fat and structures beneath the platysma for a sharper neck angle; more technically demanding.
Who it suits
- Loose neck skin or a "turkey neck"
- Visible vertical platysma bands
- Fat under the chin that did not respond to non-surgical treatment
Choosing a surgeon in Gangnam
Ask whether you need a neck lift alone or combined with a facelift, and how the surgeon manages the jaw-neck transition. Review photos in profile, not just from the front. Our overview of neck lift surgery in Korea covers benefits and risks.
Cost of neck lift in Korea
| Plan | Typical Gangnam range |
|---|---|
| Neck lift with liposuction | KRW 8–12 million |
| Deep neck lift | KRW 12–18 million |
| Combined with facelift | Usually quoted as a package |
See platysmaplasty costs in Seoul.
Recovery and results
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Tightness, swelling, chin strap or compression wrap |
| Days 7–10 | Stitches removed |
| Weeks 2–3 | Swelling reduced; cleared to fly |
| Months 3–6 | Final neck contour; firmness softens |
Avoid bending your neck sharply or turning it forcefully for the first couple of weeks.
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about hematoma, irregular contour from over-removal of fat, persistent bands, temporary lower-lip weakness, scars under the chin and behind the ears, and skin healing problems in smokers.
Neck lift vs. non-surgical neck tightening
| Neck lift | Energy devices or threads | |
|---|---|---|
| Treats bands | Yes | Limited |
| Removes skin | Yes | No |
| Longevity | 10 years or more | Months to a year |
| Downtime | About 2 weeks | 0–3 days |
For milder cases, see non-surgical neck tightening.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a neck lift be done without a facelift?
Yes, if the jawline and jowls are in good shape. Many patients with jowls benefit from combining both.
Will neck bands come back?
Platysma repair is durable, but some bands can reappear years later with ageing.
Where are the scars?
A short scar under the chin and incisions behind the ears, usually well hidden.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 2 weeks so stitches can be removed and swelling checked.
Does liposuction alone fix a loose neck?
Only when skin is firm. Loose skin or bands need surgical tightening.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.