Neck Lift Incisions – Methods, Procedure & Benefits

The incision in a neck lift is a decisive factor for the aesthetic result, the visibility of the later scars and the long-term durability of the procedure. There is no single, universal technique – rather, different methods are used which, depending on the individual findings and the desired result, are combined or applied individually. The established access routes first include the submental access under the chin. Here a small incision is made in the natural skin fold directly below the chin. This technique is preferred when the area of the middle neck is primarily to be tightened or when there is excessive fat accumulation (double chin). Via this access, the surgeon can both remove excess fat tissue and tighten or reconstruct the so-called platysma – a flat muscle in the neck area. The scar usually remains almost invisible. Another common procedure is the preauricular incision, in which the skin incision is made along the natural contour in front of the ear. This method offers access to deeper structures in the lower face and neck and is particularly suitable when, in addition to the neck lift, the cheek area is also to be treated. The preauricular technique is often used as part of a combined neck and facelift and allows a targeted tightening of the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) – i.e. the muscular support tissue under the skin. This method is often supplemented by a retroauricular incision, which runs behind the ear up into the hairline. Especially with strongly slackened tissue in the lower face and lateral neck, this variant offers the possibility of repositioning larger skin areas while at the same time leaving very discreet scars. The combination of pre- and retroauricular accesses enables a comprehensive tightening of the lateral neck – ideal in cases of advanced tissue ageing or after significant weight loss. In many cases, a combination of these techniques with the submental access is also chosen. This allows both central and lateral neck areas to be tightened precisely and evenly – for a coherent overall picture. The selection of the appropriate method always depends on the individual starting situation, the tissue quality, the degree of skin slackening and the personal wishes of the patient. In a detailed consultation at the Sinis Clinic Berlin, Prof. Dr. Sinis analyses together with you which incision is likely to deliver the best aesthetic and functional results for you – while keeping scar formation as low as possible. The goal of every incision is to achieve a natural-looking result that does not look "operated on". Aftercare also plays an important role: through modern wound care and targeted skincare recommendations, even fine scars can be further minimised. In sum, it becomes clear: the incision in a neck lift is not only a technical necessity, but a central design element for the harmony of neck and facial proportions. Choosing the right method – individually tailored and professionally implemented – is the key to a result that convinces you in the long term. In the following, we present the most important techniques in detail.

In a combined neck and facelift, the incision is deliberately chosen so that a maximum tightening effect is achieved – while keeping the scars as inconspicuous as possible. The incision often begins in the temple area and runs along the natural attachment of the ear, around the earlobe to behind the ear. This technique is supplemented by an additional incision in the chin region, more precisely below the chin. This access allows the surgeon direct access to the neck muscles and fat deposits. Through this combined incision, not only excess skin can be removed, but the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) can also be repositioned and tightened – both in the lower face and on the neck.

The result: a harmonious, more youthful appearance without visible transitions between the treated regions. The aim is to define the facial contours gently but effectively – especially in the area of the jawline, the jaw angle and the upper neck. Through the precise placement of the incisions in natural skin folds or behind the ear, scars are largely concealed.