15 September 2025 | 11 minute read
Neck lift surgery is becoming increasingly popular. More people now recognise how the neck’s shape and anatomy affect both appearance and function. The neck plays a role in facial ageing and can also contribute to functional issues, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea. These issues relate to the size, shape, and position of internal anatomical structures, as well as fat distribution. Key structures include the submandibular salivary glands, lymph nodes, and deeply situated neck fat. The shape, size, and position of the digastric muscles under the chin also play a role. The relationship of the U-shaped hyoid bone to the jawbone and trachea has a major impact on overall neck shape.
Patients with a low, forward-positioned hyoid bone often have a very obtuse neck angle. In some cases, this angle looks almost like a straight line from chin to chest. Patients with a high, posterior hyoid typically have a sharp, acute neck-to-chin angle. This creates a long, swan-like neck with a more defined contour.
In addition to these anatomical variants, the way in which the skin behaves, as well as the fat that lies under the skin (the subcutaneous fat) and the platysma muscle also impact on the appearance and behaviour of the neck. All of these structures and factors are crucial to consider when planning neck surgery. Neck lift operations vary widely in complexity and length. These differences are then reflected in the cost of each type of neck lift.
The cost of a neck lift depends on the complexity of the surgery and the length of the operation. In many cases, a neck lift is combined with a facelift or other procedures, which increases the overall price. A standalone neck lift, although less common, may cost between £12,000 and £25,000. When combined with a facelift and ancillary procedures, the cost may exceed £30,000 at the time of writing.
What Is a Neck Lift Procedure?
A neck lift describes any procedure that changes the shape of the neck. This can be achieved through either direct or indirect techniques. A direct neck lift is less common but can be highly effective. In this approach, the surgeon creates a vertical scar from just under the chin to below the Adam’s apple to access the neck structures. The procedure is tailored to the patient and addresses the specific issues identified during the pre-surgery examination. The surgeon may tighten the muscles and remove excess skin to reshape the neck. Occasionally, a small zigzag ‘Z-plasty’ is included in the scar closure. In some cases, the scar may be released and revised later if it heals too tightly.
Other more common approaches to the neck will incorporate a small 4 centimetre horizontal scar under the chin. This procedure is often referred to as an isolated neck lift. If this is the only scar used, it is usually suitable only for younger patients with elastic skin. In these cases, the skin maintains its firmness after the internal neck structures are lifted and reduced, and the muscles are tightened.
This is the most common approach when combined with a facelift. During surgery, the surgeon tightens and lifts the platysma muscle from the back. The most common neck lift technique combines the submental scar under the chin with facelift scars. Facelift scars usually begin at the sideburns and follow the natural contours around the ear. They then extend into the hairline behind the ear. These scars allow the surgeon to tighten the SMAS layer, which supports the face’s soft tissues. They also allow lifting of the platysma muscle from its edges below the ears. The platysma muscle creates visible bands in the neck. These appear most clearly when we exaggerate the word ‘cheese.’ The preferred method combines the anterior approach under the chin with the posterior facelift technique. This combination achieves the most comprehensive results for most patients.
Why People Choose Neck Lift Surgery in the UK
People choose neck lifts for a variety of reasons. The changes to the neck that they observe might be congenital/hereditary and related to their anatomy and its development or from weight loss, the ageing process or from other reasons.
In some congenital cases, a small mandible and a low, forward hyoid bone can cause visible differences. These anatomical features may also create functional issues. They can contribute to obstructive sleep apnoea and snoring.
Whatever the concern about the neck, patients may experience emotional and psychological effects. These issues can affect daily activities and even relationships. Many patients report a remarkable boost in confidence after surgery. It is often life-changing to see their outlook transform following neck reshaping and restoration.
Neck Lift Cost in the UK: 2025 Average Prices & Breakdown
Costs for neck lift surgery in the UK vary widely. Prices often reflect the surgeon’s experience and the techniques used. More experienced surgeons, such as Mr Pacifico, employ advanced and comprehensive techniques. His skill, expertise, and the time required for surgery are reflected in the fees. While some clinics may offer neck lifts for under £10,000, experienced surgeons usually charge higher fees.
For example, a direct neck lift with a deep neck lift may cost upward of £11,000. In comparison, a comprehensive deep neck lift combined with a deep plane facelift may cost over £30,000.
What Affects the Cost of a Neck Lift in the UK?
In addition to the skill, experience and reputation of the surgeon, affecting the costs, the location of where that surgeon is based will also have an impact. The southeast of England and London tend to command higher prices than elsewhere in the country. Which is common for many other aspects of life. In addition ,the provision of the all-important adjunctive and ancillary services such as lymphatic drainage massage, the post-operative care package and the personalised and individualised nature of the care will influence the costs required to provide that level of service. Added to this, other fees for the anaesthesia and facility (hospital) costs, not to mention incorporating the costs of the post operative care and covering the costs for any urgent or emergency intervention should that be required.
Can You Get a Neck Lift on the NHS or Only Privately?
There is rarely a provision nowadays for neck lifting surgery in the public sector on the NHS (National Health Service). There are, however, many components of neck lifting surgery that are frequently performed on the NHS, such as surgery to submandibular glands, surgery to address any neck or lower facial nerve weakness in facial palsy, as well as surgery to the chin, the jaw and on other structures under the neck.
Is a Neck Lift Worth It? Cost vs Results Explained
Neck lift surgery carries a significant financial cost. However, surveys of our patients show they are overwhelmingly satisfied with the results. Most are pleased to have undergone the procedure. The feeling that the decision has been justified and warranted is based on not only their physical objective outcome, but the significant positive impact it has made to their lives.
That said, not everyone is prepared to undergo this form of surgery. Some people feel uncomfortable with surgery on their submandibular glands. Others are not ready for the degree of invasiveness involved.
Therefore, in some situations where someone is not prepared to undergo the recommended deep neck lift surgery, there has to be an acceptance of a trade off and compromise of the result. Overall, any decision has to be felt to be “worth it” over time. However, it is crucial no one makes a short term decision that they may come to regret, or wish they had chosen an alternative option. It is important to reflect during the pre-operative decision-making stage. Patients should consider how they might feel 6 to 12 months after surgery. This reflection should relate to the potential outcomes of different procedures, if more than one option is offered.
Determining who is an ideal candidate for a neck lift is something undertaken during an in depth, careful consultation with your surgeon. It is important to determine what the anatomical and physiological factors that exist, resulting in the individual patient’s presenting condition. Then the surgeon can explain what technically would need to be done to address these issues.
This assessment determines whether a neck lift is recommended. It also guides which techniques and anatomical structures need attention. There is no single, standard procedure for everyone. Each treatment must be tailored to the individual patient.
Hidden or Extra Neck Lift Surgery Costs in the UK
Other costs to consider include consultation fees. These are usually based on the surgeon’s expertise, reputation, and geographical location. For example, at the time of writing, a consultation with Mr Pacifico in Tunbridge Wells is £300. On Harley Street, a consultation is £450. The initial consultation lasts about an hour. A second consultation usually follows two weeks later. This gives you time to reflect on the first discussion and recommendations. Finally, the costs also includes an additional consultation with the Purity Bridge nurses should surgery proceed.
Most of the time, post-operative painkillers are included in the cost of surgery. However, patients should be aware that additional medication may carry extra costs. For example, after deep neck lift surgery, Mr Pacifico recommends two weeks of hyoscine. This medicine is available over the counter as Kwells. This is an inexpensive medicine that helps reduce saliva production that helps promote healing of the salivary glands after surgery. Other costs may include compression garments and manual lymphatic drainage therapy. Nutritional supplements are also often recommended to support the healing process.
Revision surgery is always a possibility after any plastic surgical procedure. This may involve an extra cost, particularly if it falls outside the expected outcomes discussed before surgery. For example, if a surgeon recommends a comprehensive neck lift but the patient chooses a less invasive option, the results may be limited. If the patient is then disappointed and requests revision surgery, an additional cost will apply. In this example, this was the patient’s initial decision and there will be further costs to be borne. However, if revision surgery is required due to a problem or complication, it may be covered. This usually depends on the terms and conditions of your original procedure.
Neck Lift Financing & Payment Plans in the UK
It is often possible to arrange financing plans via the hospitals in which the surgery takes place should this be of interest. In most cases, the finance company manages this independently from the surgeon. They often offer 0% interest plans. Availability depends on your credit history and the credit checks carried out by the finance company.
Choosing the Best Neck Lift Surgeon in the UK
Choosing the right surgeon can be incredibly difficult! There is a huge amount of information online and on social media. It’s important to research as much as possible before surgery. If you know someone who has had a neck lift and is happy with their results, that can be a great place to start. Review sites such as Trustpilot and before-and-after galleries on social media can also be very helpful.
Neck lift surgery is rarely urgent. It’s best to take your time when choosing a surgeon. Explore your options carefully until you have a shortlist of two or three surgeons you would consider. It’s a good idea to meet each surgeon in person. This helps you decide who makes you feel most comfortable and confident. It also allows you to compare approaches and likely outcomes.
Without doubt, price should not be the only consideration. In fact, ideally this would be the last consideration as this is a life event and life-changing surgery. Trusted directories, such as BAAPS membership, can be useful indicators of a surgeon’s credibility. Being invited to lecture and teach in the UK and abroad is a strong sign of a surgeon’s expertise.
Neck Lift Cost Summary & Next Steps
In conclusion, the cost of surgery can range from £12,000 to over £30,000. The final price depends on your anatomy, goals, and other factors reviewed during consultation. Your surgeon’s experience and reputation will also strongly influence the price. To gain an accurate idea of surgery costs, the next step is an in-person consultation. This meeting allows you to discuss the factors that determine your individual surgery cost.
For more information, please get in touch via the contact form. We’re excited to guide you through the next steps of your neck lift journey.