Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction: Best Jawline Defining Facial Profile Procedures
A truly defined jawline isn’t just about removing fat, it’s about a precise, strategic approach. As a leading facial plastic surgeon, I truly understand that attaining a strong, defined appearance involves choosing the most effective cosmetic procedure to achieve your ideal aesthetic “look”.
How to Get a Defined Jawline: Choosing Between a Neck Lift and Liposuction
When addressing the persistent issue of a “double chin” due to excess fat, I opt for submental liposuction to expertly shape and enhance the region, unveiling the natural jawline that lies beneath. This targeted procedure offers quick recovery, making it ideal for individuals with excellent skin elasticity. However, when you’re dealing with significant loose skin, muscle laxity, and that tell-tale “turkey neck” appearance, a neck lift is the only way to achieve a lasting, dramatic transformation. This comprehensive facial procedure tightens the deep underlying muscles and fascia, restoring a smooth, firm, and youthful contour.
If you’ve ever caught yourself tilting your head for the “best angle” in photos, or wondered why your reflection looks more tired than you feel, you’re not imagining it.
Jawline contouring matters because it alters how others perceive you—and how you perceive yourself. The question is, is a neck lift enough? Will a submental liposuction give better results? Or do you need both?
The most effective and comprehensive facial contouring results are typically achieved by combining neck lift procedures with liposuction. By using liposuction to remove excess fat and a neck lift to tighten and reshape the neck, we address all critical elements at the same time. This process is not a simple procedure; it is a strategic combination that delivers truly transformative outcomes.
The Role of Neck Contouring in Facial Balancing & Symmetry
Jawlines are a dominant feature in modern aesthetics.
A sharp, contoured jawline signals youth, vitality, and confidence. It frames the entire face, drawing balance between your chin, neck, and profile. But what happens when genetics, aging, or lifestyle blur those lines?
Submental fat (the dreaded double chin), sagging jowls, or loose neck skin can soften face definition that no Instagram or Snapchat filter can fully hide.
Think of your jawline as the foundation of your facial structure. Even with full cheeks or bright eyes, a weak jawline can disrupt harmony.
Neck contouring, which can be achieved through procedures like a neck lift or submental liposuction, helps restore balance to the neck’s appearance. Neck Contouring not only improves the neckline, but it also enhances the proportions of your entire face. This is why many patients refer to it as the “one cosmetic procedure that makes everything look better.
Common Treatable Conditions: Double Chin, Jowls & Skin Laxity
Patients across Chicago come in with the same frustrations:
- Neck banding: Loose platysma muscles creating vertical lines
- Sagging jowls: Soft tissue and skin pulling down the lower face
- Submental fullness (double chin): Fat under the chin that no diet seems to fix
- Blunted cervicomental angle: The sharp angle between the chin and neck becomes dull
>Each of these issues points to a different solution—or a combination of them.
Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction: How It Works, Ideal Candidates, and Benefits & Limitations
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift (platysmaplasty) is a surgical procedure that goes deeper than skin. It tightens muscles, trims excess skin, and restores that youthful, defined angle where the chin meets the neck.
How a neck lift works
- Tightens platysma muscles
- Removes sagging, excess skin
- Redefines the cervicomental angle
- Often paired with submental liposuction for fat removal
Ideal Neck Lift Candidates
- Patients with significant skin laxity
- Individuals with visible platysma banding
- Those seeking long-term rejuvenation
Neck Lift Procedures: Benefits and Limitations
- Dramatic, long-lasting results
- Improves profile and frontal view
- Longer recovery (2–3 weeks)
- Requires anesthesia + surgical risks
>Considering a neck lift in Chicago? Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Caughlin to see if you’re a candidate.
What is Submental Liposuction?
Submental liposuction, commonly referred to as double chin surgery, specifically targets excess fat in the chin area.
Medically, the procedure involves removing localized adipose tissue (fat) from the submental region. This region lies beneath your chin and along your upper neck, hence the term double chin surgery. Some of our patients ask whether you can get rid of their double chin naturally, and while it’s possible, there are limitations. Those limits are broken through a submental liposuction.
How Submental Liposuction Works:
- Small incision under the chin
- Fat suctioned out with a micro-cannula
- Typically performed under local anesthesia
Ideal Submental Liposuction Candidates:
- Patients seeking minimal downtime
- Younger patients with firm, elastic skin
- Those whose main issue is fat, not skin laxity
Submental Liposuction: Benefits and Limitations
- Minimally invasive, quick recovery (5–10 days)
- Removes fat permanently
- Doesn’t treat sagging skin or neck bands
- Results depend on natural skin contraction
>Not sure if lipo is enough? Learn more about whether it’s the right treatment for you here
Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction Procedures: Key Differences
| Feature | Neck Lifts | Submental Liposuction |
| Best For | Skin laxity, jowls, platysma bands, aging concerns, patients who want to address vertical banding (turkey neck) | Fat deposits, double chin |
| Technique | Muscle tightening + skin removal (often with lipo) | Fat suction only; removes excess fat and works best for patients with good skin elasticity |
| Recovery | 2–3 weeks | 5–10 days |
| Longevity | 10+ years | Permanent fat removal (aging continues) |
| Invasiveness | Surgical with anesthesia | Minimally invasive |
Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Neck Lift Recovery
- Days 1–3: Swelling, bruising, tightness
- Week 1: Return to light activity, keep head elevated
- Week 2: Sutures removed, visible improvement in contour
- Week 3+: Resume normal routine, final results emerging
Submental Liposuction Recovery
- Days 1–2: Mild swelling, compression garment
- Day 5: Back to most activities
- Week 2: Bruising subsides, sharper jawline visible
Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction in Chicago: Procedure Cost Considerations
The total cost for both procedures varies widely by surgeon and complexity. However, the average for both is typically:
- Neck Lift: $8,500–$15,000 (depending on extent of work and anesthesia)
- Submental Liposuction: $4,000–$7,000
Who Shouldn’t Get Each Procedure?
Not every procedure fits every patient.
- Neck Lift may not be right for: Patients with major medical conditions or those unwilling to commit to downtime.
- Submental Liposuction may not be right for: Patients with poor skin elasticity, advanced aging, or want to address muscle banding & skin tightening issues.
This is where a consultation comes in. Not only does it save you time and money, but you also get a more detailed overview of what to expect from each procedure. A proper diagnosis precedes treatment.
When to Choose Neck Lift or Submental Liposuction Procedures
Choose a Neck Lift if…
- Your main concern is sagging, wrinkled, or droopy skin.
- You see visible vertical neck bands or jowling.
- You want a comprehensive, long-lasting correction.
Select Submental Liposuction if…
- You mainly dislike fat under your chin (double chin).
- Your skin is still firm and likely to snap back.
- You want a quick recovery and less invasive option.
Non-Surgical Contouring Options in Chicago
Non-Surgical Contouring Options
- Kybella: A deoxycholic acid injection that destroys fat cells under the chin to reduce a double chin.
- Dermal Fillers: Used to add structure and definition to areas like the jawline, which can also cause mild bruising and swelling.
Dr. Caughlin’s Approach
Top Surgical Procedures to Reduce Facial Fat
>Read more: Top 5 Surgical Procedures to Reduce Facial Fat & Get Rid of Chubby Cheeks
Neck Lift vs Submental Liposuction – FAQs
Which is better for jowls?
A neck lift is generally regarded as a more suitable option for jowls. Liposuction alone won’t fix sagging jowls.
Does submental liposuction tighten skin?
No, a submental liposuction removes excess fat (e.g., double chin). It removes fat only and does not address issues related to muscle banding.
Is there such a thing as a “mini neck lift”?
Yes, for patients with mild laxity. It’s less invasive but offers subtler results.
How much does each procedure cost in Chicago?
Typically, the cost of liposuction falls between $4,000 and $7,000. In contrast, a neck lift can be priced anywhere from $8,500 to $15,000.
Are the results permanent?
Liposuction permanently removes fat cells, but aging continues. Neck lifts last 10+ years with proper care.
Can I combine both neck lift procedures with submental liposuction?
Yes, many patients see the best contour with a combined approach.
Why Choose Dr. Benjamin Caughlin at Many Faces of Chicago?
Dr. Caughlin isn’t just skilled; he’s a double board-certified in facial plastic surgeon, known for jawline artistry. Celebrated for his exceptional results in sculpting faces. His expertise and attention to detail have earned him a reputation as a leading practitioner in the plastic surgery field, transforming the facial aesthetics of countless patients with precision and care.
- Trusted for natural, balanced results
- Hundreds of 5-star reviews from Chicago patients
- Expert in neck lift, submental liposuction, surgical facelift, and jawline contouring
- Featured for his innovative techniques in buccal fat removal and facial rejuvenation
RECENT NECK LIFT PROCEDURES – PERFORMED BY DR. BEN CAUGHLIN
BEFORE & AFTER NECK LIFT PHOTO GALLERY
Should I choose a neck lift or submental liposuction?
- If sagging skin and jowls bother you → a neck lift is the solution.
- If stubborn fat is the issue → liposuction might be enough.
- If you want the sharpest results → a combination often works best.
Ready to discover what’s right for you? Schedule a consultation → [here]
Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Dr. Benjamin Caughlin – Facial Sculpting Surgeon Chicago