In traditional neck lift surgeries, the incision is made behind the ear and extends into the hairline. The skin of the face and neck is then pulled upwards and tightened, with the skin being secured internally with stitches. Excess skin is removed, and the incisions are closed, thereby correcting wrinkles and sagging in the neck. This results in a firm and aesthetically pleasing neck appearance. The surgical incision made behind the ear is not visible from the outside.

Aesthetic neck lift surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the operation typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours. A drain is usually placed under the neck to prevent blood accumulation and is typically removed after one day, at which point the patient can be discharged. If any procedures were performed under the chin, a bandage is applied to the area, which generally remains in place for about a week. Post-operatively, patients may experience bruising, swelling, pain, and numbness in the neck area. Swelling tends to decrease rapidly within 7-10 days, while bruising can last up to 15 days in sensitive skin. It takes about six months for the skin to fully settle.