This guide focuses on the most frequently asked questions for those who want to fix aesthetic problems with their neck and jawline. Istanbul has become a popular destination for neck lift surgery with its high standards in health tourism and affordable costs. The following questions and answers will help you better understand the cost and other aspects of this process.
What Is Neck Lift Surgery?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that aims to define the angle between the face and neck, tighten sagging skin on the neck, and remove excess fat in the jowls. This surgery typically corrects the looseness, wrinkles, and the “turkey neck” appearance in the neck area caused by the aging process, genetic factors, or sudden weight loss. During the surgery, the muscles are tightened and excess skin is surgically removed. As a result, a younger, smoother, and more aesthetically pleasing neck line is obtained.
What Are the Prices for Neck Lift Surgery in Istanbul?
The prices for neck lift surgery in Istanbul can vary greatly depending on many factors. The main factors that determine the price include the surgeon’s experience and reputation in this field, the location and technological infrastructure of the hospital where the surgery will be performed, the scope of the surgery (whether only a neck lift or additional procedures like a facelift are also performed), and the services provided after the operation. Although much more affordable costs are generally offered compared to Western countries, a detailed preliminary consultation is required to get the most accurate price information.
Why Are More Affordable Prices Offered in Istanbul?
The main reasons for the more affordable prices for neck lift surgery in Istanbul include the lower general cost of living and operational expenses in the healthcare sector in Turkey compared to Western countries. Additionally, government incentives for health tourism and intense competition in the sector help keep prices at reasonable levels. This allows patients to access high-quality surgical services at much more economical prices than they could find in their home countries.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Neck Lift Surgery?
The best candidates for neck lift surgery are individuals with noticeable sagging, looseness, or excess fat accumulation on the neck and jawline, who are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the surgery results. This surgery is generally performed on individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, but it may also be suitable for younger patients who start to show signs of aging in the neck area earlier due to genetic factors. It should be noted that to be an ideal candidate for the surgery, it is also important not to smoke or to quit for a certain period before the surgery.
What Should Be Considered Before the Surgery?
The preparation process before neck lift surgery is vital for a safe and successful outcome. It is necessary to completely quit smoking and using tobacco products at least 4-6 weeks before the surgery, as smoking severely negatively affects wound healing. Blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements, and some painkillers should be stopped at least a week before the surgery. Fully complying with the blood tests and other examinations your doctor will perform will help you ensure the best conditions for the day of the surgery.
How Long Does the Surgery Take?
The duration of neck lift surgery varies according to the scope of the operation and the patient’s needs. A simple neck lift procedure usually takes between 2 and 4 hours. However, if this operation is combined with another surgical procedure such as a facelift, liposuction (fat removal), or eyelid aesthetics, the surgery time will naturally be extended. Your surgeon will determine the most suitable plan for you during the preliminary consultation and will give you clear information about the estimated duration of the surgery.
What Is the Post-Operative Recovery Process Like?
Although the post-operative recovery process varies for each patient, the first few days are the most critical period. Patients generally stay in the hospital for one night. Swelling, bruising, and mild pain are normal during the first week. The painkillers recommended by your doctor will make this period more comfortable. Wearing a special bandage or corset that supports the neck and jaw area is necessary to speed up healing and reduce swelling. Most patients can gradually return to their daily activities within a week.
Is the Surgery Painful?
Since neck lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you will not feel any pain or discomfort during the operation. After the surgery, there may be some pain, tension, or sensitivity in the neck and jaw area. This pain can usually be easily controlled with prescribed painkillers. These sensations will decrease as the recovery process progresses and will completely disappear within a few weeks.
Do Scars Remain After the Surgery?
Neck lift surgery is usually performed with incisions hidden in the natural creases behind the ear and under the chin. This minimizes the surgical scars and makes them not noticeable. The scars may be prominent at first, but they will begin to fade over time with proper wound care. Although they do not completely disappear, they are very difficult to notice from the outside because they are properly hidden. Your surgeon will give you recommendations for the best possible healing of the scars.
What Are the Risks of the Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, a neck lift also has some risks. These include infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, nerve damage (temporary or permanent numbness), asymmetry, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. These risks can be largely minimized by having the surgery performed by an experienced surgeon in a fully equipped hospital and by the patient fully complying with the doctor’s instructions.
What Is Included in the Price and Are There Hidden Costs?
A reliable neck lift package usually includes the surgery fee, anesthesia cost, the surgeon’s professional fee, hospital stay, initial post-operative check-ups, and special medical materials used (such as bandages, corsets). To avoid hidden costs, it is very important to ask in detail what is and is not covered by the package and to request a written contract when getting a quote. It will be useful to clarify matters such as medications and additional check-ups.
What Is Included in Packages for International Patients?
Neck lift packages prepared for international patients generally offer more comprehensive services in addition to the surgery fee. These services may include airport transfers, accommodation (hotel or private apartment), pre- and post-operative translation services, city tours, and other logistical support. Such packages allow patients to focus entirely on their recovery process without the stress of travel and organization.
When Can I Return to Work After the Surgery?
The time it takes to return to work after a neck lift depends on the nature of the job. Patients who work at a desk and at a light pace can usually return to work within 10-14 days. Those who work in a more physically demanding job or who are in the public eye may have to wait for a longer period (for the bruising and swelling to completely go down). Listening to your doctor’s recommendations is important for a safe return to work.
When Can I Do Sports After the Surgery?
In the first few days after the surgery, only light activities such as walking that increase circulation are recommended. More intense and strenuous exercises, weight lifting, or movements that strain the abdominal muscles should be avoided. Generally, after 4 to 6 weeks, you can gradually return to more intense sports with your doctor’s permission. It is important to avoid movements that strain the neck and head area in the first few months.
Are the Results Permanent?
The results of neck lift surgery are quite permanent and generally last for 10-15 years. However, the surgery does not completely stop the aging process. Over time, new sagging and loosening may occur in the skin and muscles. To extend the life of the results, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, protect yourself from the sun, and not smoke. If necessary, minor revisions can be done later.
Is There an Age Limit for Neck Lift Surgery?
Although there is no official age limit for neck lift surgery, the operation is generally performed on individuals aged 40 and over whose skin elasticity has not been completely lost and who are in good general health. In some young patients, if signs of premature aging are seen due to genetic factors, this surgery can also be performed at an earlier age. What is important is not the chronological age but whether the person is physically suitable for the surgery.
Can Neck Lift and Liposuction Be Done Together?
Yes, neck lift and liposuction surgeries are often performed together. Especially in patients with excess fat accumulation in the area under the chin, known as the jowls, first the fat is removed with liposuction, and then the skin is tightened with a neck lift. This combination provides a clearer and more defined jawline and a smoother neck contour. This significantly improves the patient’s overall aesthetic appearance and helps achieve more successful results.
Are Additional Procedures Needed for the Best Results?
To get the best results, a neck lift is often combined with other surgical procedures such as a facelift, eyelid aesthetics, or a brow lift. These combined procedures provide a harmonious rejuvenation of the entire face and neck. Sometimes, non-surgical treatments like botox or fillers for minimal wrinkles can also be applied to reinforce the results. You should plan which procedures are most suitable for you with your surgeon.
When Do Bruising and Swelling Go Down After the Surgery?
Bruising and swelling after a neck lift are normal and are part of the operation. Bruising usually disappears within the first 1-2 weeks. A large part of the swelling also decreases significantly within the first 2-3 weeks. However, it can take several months for the remaining mild swelling to completely go down and for the final results to appear. Cold compresses and special bandages recommended by your doctor will help speed up this process.
How Does Smoking Affect the Surgery?
Smoking is one of the most important risk factors before and after surgery. Smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow, which severely slows down wound healing. It also increases the risk of complications such as infection and tissue loss. Therefore, it is vital for people considering neck lift surgery to quit smoking at least one month before the operation and not use it during the recovery process.
Are There Non-Surgical Neck Lift Methods?
Yes, although not as permanent and effective as a surgical operation, non-surgical neck lift methods are available. These methods include botox, fillers, laser treatments, radiofrequency (such as radiofrequency devices), and thread lifts. These methods are ideal for correcting mild sagging and wrinkles. However, in patients with significant sagging and excess skin, a surgical procedure yields much more successful results.
How Does the Consultation Process Work?
Consultation is one of the most important steps in the neck lift surgery process. During this meeting, you will openly share your expectations and goals with your surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate your neck and face structure, examine your skin quality, and create the most suitable surgery plan for you. This meeting also provides an opportunity to get information about the surgeon’s experience and to ask all your questions about the surgery. Working with a reliable surgeon is essential for a successful outcome.
How Should I Eat After the Surgery?
In the first few days after the surgery, it is important to eat soft and liquid foods to reduce the pressure on the neck area. Foods like soup, puree, and yogurt are ideal. You can then gradually switch to solid foods. To speed up the recovery process, it is important to consume foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, drink plenty of water, and reduce salt intake.
Does Neck Lift Surgery Affect Sexual Life?
Neck lift surgery does not have a direct effect on sexual life. However, after the operation, the body needs to rest. It is recommended to avoid physical activities and strenuous movements for the first few weeks. It would be best to talk to your doctor about when you can safely return to sexual activities and make a decision based on your recovery speed.
Is the Cheapest Price Always the Best Option?
Choosing the cheapest price for a serious surgical procedure like a neck lift is not the right approach. Very low prices may indicate that the surgeon has little experience, the equipment used is of poor quality, or the surgery is not performed under adequate hygienic conditions. For your safety and aesthetic results, it is critically important to consider the surgeon’s references, the clinic’s quality, and patient reviews, rather than using price as the sole criterion.
Is a Bandage or Corset Worn After the Surgery?
Yes, after neck lift surgery, a special bandage or corset is worn to reduce swelling and bruising, support the skin, and help the tissues adapt to their new shape. This bandage is usually worn for 24 hours during the first few days after the surgery and is then continued to be worn only at night or for a duration determined by your doctor. Regular use is very important for the success of the recovery process.
What Is the Difference Between a Neck Lift and a Facelift?
While a facelift aims to correct sagging, deep wrinkles, and signs of aging on the face, a neck lift focuses only on the neck and jawline. The two procedures are often performed together to improve the overall appearance of the face and neck. A neck lift can be seen as a complement to the facelift operation and helps achieve a more balanced and youthful appearance.
Is a Revision Surgery Needed?
Neck lift surgeries usually give successful results in a single session, and a revision surgery is not needed. However, in rare cases, a minor revision may be necessary for reasons such as uneven fat removal, asymmetry, or the patient’s expectations not being fully met. These situations are usually minor adjustments, and choosing the right surgeon and clinic is important to minimize the need for a revision.
Is Massage Needed After the Surgery?
After the surgery, your doctor may recommend lymphatic drainage massages. This special type of massage helps reduce swelling and bruising faster, increases circulation, and speeds up the recovery process. You must get instructions from your doctor about when and how to perform the massage. When applied correctly, massages can increase your comfort after surgery and improve the final results.
How Long Is the Hospital Stay?
Since neck lift surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia, patients are usually asked to stay in the hospital for one night. During this process, they are closely monitored by the healthcare team, possible post-operative risks are kept under control, and the patient is ensured to have a more comfortable initial recovery process. Most patients are discharged the next day and start their resting process at home.
Is the Pre-Operative Consultation Fee-Based?
Some clinics charge for pre-operative consultations, while others may offer free consultation services. A consultation is an important step where you can discuss your expectations and your surgery plan with your surgeon, and also get information about the surgeon’s experience. It would be helpful to get information about the consultation fee policy of the clinic you are considering in advance.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Neck Lift in Istanbul?
Duration of the procedure: 2 to 3 hours. If it is combined with a face lift or other procedures, the duration will increase accordingly.
Days admitted: An overnight stay in hospital/ clinic is usually required if it is combined with a face lift.
Anesthesia: Usually under general anesthesia
Recovery: Return to work after 7 to 10 days
Activity and exercise: Full activity levels including exercise and strenuous work, can be continued after 1 month.
Aftercare of Neck lift in Istanbul: Medication can help with swelling and bruising following a neck lift. After the neck lift, keep the dressing dry and clean for two weeks. Elevate the neck for a few days after surgery while resting. During the recuperation period, stay away from alcohol and aspirin.
Neck lift surgery, also known as lower rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure that removes extra fat and skin from the neck and jawline, as well as wrinkles, jowl lines, and double chins. Turkey has a large number of clinics that do neck lifts, notably in Istanbul, the country’s cultural center. If you want to get a neck lift in Istanbul, you can write to us and get a personal quote about affordable neck lift in Istanbul.
Neck Lift Surgery Costs in Istanbul
The cost of a neck lift in Istanbul varies greatly depending on the surgeon’s experience and the specific operation. In comparison to Europe and the United States, the cost of neck lifts and many other cosmetic treatments in Turkey is far lower.
Neck lift surgery is typically considered cosmetic surgery and so is not covered by health insurance.
Always ask for the whole price, which includes the cost of surgery as well as other charges such as anesthesia, operating room and hospital bills, exams, and the cost of a second treatment if necessary.
How to Get the Cheapest Neck Lift in Istanbul with High Quality Doctors and Clinics?
As a medical tourism company, we are proud to offer affordable packages from different cities in Turkey. In that way, you will not only get the price for the operation. These packages will include vip transfer service, hotel and hospital staying, free consultation, aftercare services, all expenses of tests, pre and post operative tests. There will also be no hidden costs. Most of the clinics or hospitals for neck lift in Europe ask for a price for consultation, tests, operation, anesthesia separately. So, you will not have a chance to know what you got for how much money. That is why we offer all inclusive neck lift packages in Istanbul at the most affordable prices.
Turkey is a beautiful country for medical treatments. Patients from every country every year go to Istanbul for cosmetic, aesthetic or dental treatments. They leave the country with a big happy smile because they are satisfied with the results. You may think there are good and bad doctors for neck lift in Istanbul. But you do not have to think about that because Cure Holiday chose its partner clinics according to patient reviews, hospital or clinic quality, patient satisfaction and high quality technology and equipment.
How is the Recovery from Neck Lift in Istanbul?
Bandages are put across the face over the incisions while they heal after your neck lift surgery in Istanbul. Thin tubes may be inserted under the skin to remove any extra blood or fluids. You will be told which medications to take for healing and how to care for the treated region while you are recovering. A follow-up visit has been scheduled after that.
Neck should not be turning to the sides, upwards or downwards and the head should be kept in a forward direction. Ice should never be used on the treated area because it may lead to circulatory issues resulting in skin death. You should always be gentle on your skin in the incision area. For at least 3 weeks after neck lift surgery in Turkey, you should avoid any form of physical strain.
In most situations, it takes 10 to 14 days to return to normal activity. However, you won’t notice the ultimate effects of your neck lift until the external and internal healing is complete, and the swelling and bruises have gone away completely, which might take many weeks to months. Scars from the neck lift heal in the hairline area and the natural curves of the ear, so they are disguised.
It’s a good idea to ask your surgeon about the time period immediately following surgery and during recuperation. You may have concerns regarding where you will be put following surgery, what drugs you will be given, and when you should schedule a follow-up visit.
