Neck Lift

Neck Lift in Vancouver, BC

A neck lift, also called a platysmaplasty or cervicoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address sagging skin, loosened muscles, and excess fat beneath the chin and along the neck. While a facelift targets the mid and lower face, a neck lift focuses specifically on the neck and jawline, rendering it ideal for patients whose primary concern is below the chin.

Over time, the platysma muscle bands in the neck loosen and separate, creating vertical cords that run from the chin to the chest. At the same time, skin laxity and localized fat deposits contribute to what is commonly called a “turkey neck.” A neck lift corrects all three issues: excess fat is reduced, the underlying muscles are tightened, and redundant skin is carefully removed.

Dr. Eric Pugash approaches every neck lift as a fully individualized procedure. During your private consultation at his New Westminster office, he will assess your anatomy, skin quality, and cosmetic objectives to determine the most appropriate technique, whether a standalone neck lift, a combined facelift and neck lift, or a more extensive facial rejuvenation plan best suits your goals.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Neck Lift Surgery in Vancouver?

A neck lift is well-suited to adults in good general health who are bothered by visible neck aging that cannot be meaningfully addressed through non-surgical treatments alone. The best applicants usually present with:

  • Loose or sagging neck skin that has not responded to non-surgical options such as injectables or fillers
  • Visible platysmal banding of the vertical muscle cords along the front of the neck that only surgery can fully correct
  • Submental fat or a “double chin” that continues despite a healthy lifestyle
  • Realistic expectations and the understanding that the goal is a natural, rested result rather than a dramatic transformation
  • Stable weight and good general health, with no active smoking

Dr. Pugash will evaluate your suitability during a thorough consultation and discuss all available options honestly. If non-surgical treatments are more appropriate for your concerns, he will tell you.

What Happens During Neck Lift Surgery with Dr. Pugash?

Neck lift surgery is typically performed as a day procedure at one of Dr. Pugash’s accredited surgical facilities, including the Still Creek Surgical Centre, the Cambie Surgery Centre, and Valley Surgical Centre. The procedure generally takes 2 to 3 hours. Here is what to expect:

  1. Consultation & Surgical Plan—Dr. Pugash assesses your neck anatomy and skin quality, then determines which technique is most appropriate for your goals. Complementary procedures are discussed at this stage.
  2. Anesthesia—Surgery is performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation administered by an experienced anesthesiologist. Your comfort and safety are the main considerations.
  3. Incision Placement—Small, discreet incisions are made beneath the chin and/or behind the ears, positioned carefully within natural skin creases to remain well hidden even when hair is worn up.
  4. Fat Reduction & Muscle Tightening—Excess submental fat is removed through direct excision or liposuction. If platysmal banding is present, Dr. Pugash tightens and sutures the underlying muscle layer to restore a clean, defined neckline.
  5. Skin Removal & Closure—Redundant skin is conservatively excised to smooth the neck without producing an overpulled or unnatural result. Fine sutures close the incisions, and light compression bandaging is applied.
Dr. Pugash headshot

Meet Dr. Pugash

Ready to turn back the hands of time, enhance body contours or conceal aesthetic imperfections? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric Pugash today to learn more about how Dr. Pugash can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Dr. Pugash has built a busy cosmetic surgery practice that thrives on the referrals of satisfied patients. He and his staff take pride in their friendly office atmosphere, thorough patient education, and meticulous care both before and after surgery.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Neck Lift in Vancouver?

Most patients are surprised by how manageable neck lift recovery is. Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal in the first 1 to 2 weeks, and a compression garment is typically worn during this period. Dr. Pugash provides detailed post-operative instructions and follows up personally with each patient throughout recovery.

Results are long-lasting, and many patients enjoy their refreshed appearance for years. General health, weight stability, and sun exposure all influence how results age over time.

Can a Neck Lift Be Combined with Other Facial Procedures?

A neck lift is often performed alongside other facial rejuvenation procedures for patients seeking more comprehensive results in a single operation. Dr. Pugash will discuss all options during your consultation plus help you determine the most effective combination for your goals.

  • Facelift—addresses jowls, nasolabial folds, and the lower face alongside the neck for complete rejuvenation
  • Short-Scar Facelift—a less invasive facelift technique with minimal scarring, ideal for patients with early facial aging
  • Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)—corrects drooping upper eyelids or under-eye puffiness for a more rested, alert appearance
  • Brow Lift—restores youthful brow position and softens forehead lines when combined with facial rejuvenation
  • Facial Implants—enhance chin or jawline definition to complement a more refined, contoured neckline
  • Botox & Dermal Fillers—non-surgical treatments that complement surgical results and help maintain a refreshed look over time

Meet Dr. Eric Pugash — Your Vancouver Neck Lift Surgeon

Dr. Eric Pugash has been performing advanced facial plastic surgery in the Vancouver and Lower Mainland area since 1987. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) and a member of both the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Over more than three decades, Dr. Pugash has built a reputation for natural-looking results, the kind that leave patients looking rested and youthful rather than obviously “done.” He believes firmly in a boutique practice model: unlike many modern clinics, he personally attends to every patient starting with the initial consultation through post-operative follow-up, without delegating care to nursing staff.

Learn More About Dr. Pugash | Read Patient Reviews

Neck Lift FAQs

the neck lift is combined with other procedures, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery. A detailed cost estimate is provided after your consultation with Dr. Pugash once a surgical plan is established. Cosmetic procedures are not covered by BC MSP.

A facelift addresses the mid and lower face, including the jowls, nasolabial folds, and the jawline, as well as the upper neck. A neck lift is more targeted, focusing on the neck itself: loose skin, platysmal banding, and submental fat. Patients whose primary concern is below the chin may only require a neck lift, while others benefit from a combined approach. Dr. Pugash will recommend the right option for your anatomy.

Achieving a natural, undetectable result is Dr. Pugash’s foremost priority. His patients regularly report that friends notice they look younger and more rested without being able to identify a specific change. This outcome is reflected throughout his before-and-after gallery and patient testimonials.

Most patients return to light desk work within 2 to 3 weeks. Those in physically demanding roles or high-visibility positions may want to allow additional time. Dr. Pugash will provide personal guidance during your consultation based on your procedure and lifestyle.

A neck lift provides long-lasting results, though natural aging continues. Most patients enjoy their results for many years. Periodic non-surgical treatments can help maintain a refreshed appearance long-term.

Dr. Pugash offers Botox and dermal fillers that can address early or mild neck aging. However, for significant skin laxity, platysmal banding, or stubborn submental fat, a surgical neck lift remains the most effective and lasting solution. During your consultation, Dr. Pugash will recommend the most appropriate option for your concerns.

As with all surgical procedures, risks include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, poor scarring, nerve changes, and unsatisfactory results. Dr. Pugash and his team observe strict safety and sterility protocols at all surgical facilities. All risks are discussed transparently during your consultation.

Schedule Your Private Consultation

If you are considering a neck lift in Vancouver, the first step is a personal consultation with Dr. Eric Pugash. He will assess your concerns, explain all available options, and help you determine whether a neck lift is right for you with no pressure and no obligation.

Schedule a Consultation | Call 604.522.5199

237 – 610 Sixth Street (Royal City Centre), New Westminster, BC V3L 3C2
Surgery performed at Still Creek Surgical Centre, Cambie Surgery Centre, and Valley Surgical Centre