Table of contents

• Non-Surgical Pathways to Neck Rejuvenation
• The Neck Lift: A Detailed Surgical Perspective
• Best Clinics in Korea for Neck Banding
• Medical Tourism in South Korea: Your Neck Lift Journey
• Cost Analysis: Neck Lift Pricing in South Korea and Beyond
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Neck Banding with a Neck Lift
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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The neck and jawline can show early signs of aging, sometimes even before changes are visible on the face. For many people, visible lines or changes in neck contour can cause concern and affect self-confidence. This guide offers an in-depth look at "neck banding," especially the "Vertical band lines in the neck from platysma separation," and presents both treatment options and insights into undergoing a neck lift as a medical tourist in South Korea.

Understanding what "neck banding" means is an essential first step in seeking an effective solution.

What is Neck Banding?

The platysma muscle, a thin sheet running from the collarbone to the jawline, is responsible for most visible neck bands. In youth, the muscle is discreet, but with age or particular expressions, vertical or horizontal bands can surface.

• Vertical bands (the main concern in platysma separation): Appear as rope-like cords, more noticeable with grimacing or facial animation.
• Horizontal lines: Known as "necklace lines," often due to skin laxity and creasing.

Aging loosens the platysma, thins fat layers and reduces skin elasticity, making bands more visible. Genetics, weight loss, sun exposure, daily muscle activity, and even stress or anxiety can accelerate this process. Because neck banding involves skin, muscle, and fat, a thorough diagnosis is needed to find the best treatment.

Common Pseudonyms and Related Concerns

People use different terms to describe neck concerns, not always specific to vertical bands:

• "Platysmal bands" or "neck cords": Vertical muscle bands.
• "Necklace lines" or "necklines": Horizontal creases.
• "Turkey neck" or "wattle": Saggy skin below the chin.
• "Double chin": Fat beneath the chin.
• "Fatty jowls": Fat and sagging along the jawline.

Because patients often use "neck banding" broadly, accurate diagnosis by a qualified doctor is key.

Characteristics and Causes of Neck Banding and Related Concerns

Type of Concern	Primary Cause	Visual Appearance	Common Pseudonyms
Vertical Bands	Loosening/separation of platysma muscle	Rope-like cords, visible with animation	Platysmal bands, Neck cords
Horizontal Lines	Loss of skin elasticity, thinning skin	Neck creases or rings	Necklace lines, Necklines
Turkey Neck	Skin laxity, loose skin	Sagging, wrinkled skin under the chin	Wattle
Double Chin	Excess fat under chin	Fullness beneath the chin	Submental fat
Fatty Jowls	Fat/sagging on jawline	Bulge below jawline	Jowls

Non-Surgical Pathways to Neck Rejuvenation

Non-surgical and minimally invasive procedures are suitable for those with mild to moderate neck banding or skin laxity, or as part of a combined approach.

Overview of Minimally Invasive Options

These treatments improve skin texture, minimize lines, and deliver a subtle lift, often by boosting the body’s collagen or relaxing specific neck muscles.

Targeted Injectables

Botox® Injections for Platysmal Bands

Botox® temporarily blocks nerve signals to the platysma muscle, relaxing it and smoothing vertical bands. The recent FDA approval for Botox® Cosmetic to treat platysmal bands reinforces its safety and appropriate use. Quick and minimally uncomfortable, the procedure takes 15–20 minutes and has little downtime, with results lasting 3–4 months and maintenance sessions recommended.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers, usually based on hyaluronic acid, are ideal for filling horizontal lines or restoring neck volume. Benefits are immediate and can last 6–24 months. A combination of fillers and Botox® often yields optimal results by targeting different aspects of neck aging.

Energy-Based Skin Tightening

Laser Skin Tightening

Lasers like SkinTyte gently stimulate collagen, dissolve localized fat, and improve jawline definition—best for those with mild to moderate sagging. Redness and swelling resolve quickly, with minimal downtime.

Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling

This combines microneedling and radiofrequency energy for enhanced collagen and elastin production. Particularly effective for mild aging signs, this technique has little downtime, though some redness and dryness may occur.

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU/Ultherapy)

HIFU/Ultherapy is an FDA-approved ultrasound-based treatment that tightens deep skin layers. Improvements can continue for months post-procedure, and effects may last over a year.

Thread Lifts (PDO Threads)

PDO thread lifts insert dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and stimulate collagen. Korean clinics often use advanced techniques, providing subtle results lasting 1–3 years with a brief recovery.

Other Non-Surgical Modalities

Fat-Dissolving Injections

These injections target submental fullness (double chin), requiring several sessions.

Topical Treatments

Retinoid creams and neck-specific moisturizers help maintain skin quality and defend against neck aging. While milder in effect, they're valuable for maintenance.

Preventive Measures for Neck Health

Sun protection, hydration, a healthy diet, and avoiding harsh neck movements help prevent premature neck aging.

Considerations for Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical options are best for mild to moderate issues and need maintenance. An individualized, doctor-guided approach is essential.

Overview of Non-Surgical Treatments for Neck Rejuvenation

Treatment Type	Primary Action	Ideal Candidate	Typical Result Duration	Downtime
Botox Injections	Relaxes platysma muscle	Isolated vertical bands	3–4 months	Minimal
Dermal Fillers	Fills creases, restores volume	Horizontal lines, volume loss	6–24 months	Minimal
Laser Tightening	Stimulates collagen	Mild-moderate sagging/jowls	Multiple sessions	Sunburn-like, quick recovery
RF Microneedling	Collagen & elastin stimulation	Mild wrinkles, pigmentation	3–6 months+	Light redness
PDO Thread Lift	Lifts skin, stimulates collagen	Mild-moderate laxity	1–3 years	1–2 days
Fat-Dissolving Injections	Reduces fat cells	Localized double chin fat	Gradual, 2–4 sessions	Some swelling
Topical Treatments	Texture improvement, skin health	Ongoing maintenance	With use	None

The Neck Lift: A Detailed Surgical Perspective

For those with more advanced signs of aging, a neck lift—formally called platysmaplasty—is considered the most comprehensive and lasting solution.

What is a Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)?

A neck lift surgically removes extra skin and fat, and tightens the platysma muscle to address multiple aspects of neck aging: platysmal bands, saggy skin ("turkey neck"), a "double chin," and jowl definition.

Primary Surgical Components

• Cervicoplasty: Removes excess skin, ideal for significant skin laxity.
• Platysmaplasty: Repairs and tightens the platysma muscle; a common method is the "corset platysmaplasty," which brings muscle edges together midline for a smooth, defined jawline.
• Neck Liposuction: Removes fat deposits, especially under the chin, via small, hidden incisions.
• Direct Neck Lift (Z-Plasty): Aggressive removal of excess tissue, often with Z-shaped incisions to minimize scar appearance, for those with pronounced sagging.

Combined Procedures

Neck lifts are frequently performed alongside lower facelifts, chin augmentation, or other facial enhancements for seamless lower face rejuvenation.

The Surgical Journey: From Consultation to Recovery

• Pre-operative Consultation: A full assessment of medical history, risks, and expected outcomes.
• Anesthesia Options: General anesthesia or sedation/local anesthesia, depending on procedure complexity.
• Surgical Technique: Incisions are discreet; the platysma is tightened, excess skin and fat removed, and a pressure dressing applied.
• Post-operative Care and Recovery Timeline: Most discomfort resolves in weeks; visible improvements emerge gradually, with full results in up to three months. Support garments and activity restrictions are advised, and scars fade over 6–12 months.

Potential Risks and Complications

Possible risks include hematoma, scarring, infection, nerve injury, poor wound healing, and anesthesia reactions. A thorough pre-op screening helps reduce these risks.

Surgical Neck Lift Procedures: Components and Focus

Component	Focus	Technique(s)	Ideal for
Cervicoplasty	Excess skin	Skin trimming/reposition	Turkey neck
Platysmaplasty	Muscle tightening	Corset (midline plication)	Vertical bands
Neck Liposuction	Fat removal	Suction via small incisions	Double chin, fullness
Direct Neck Lift	Aggressive removal	Z-plasty closure	Severe sagging

Best Clinics in Korea for Neck Banding

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for neck banding:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam stands out as the best choice in Korea for neck banding because its world-class, four-floor facility delivers seamless, safety-driven care from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare, guided by director surgeons who are internationally recognized educators and researchers. Board-certified Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning 3D implant researcher and leading expert in facial contouring, and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, bring a shared philosophy of harmonizing facial features and uniting function with beauty—critical for restoring a refined jaw–neck line that looks natural and balanced. Their team’s more than decade-long experience, active roles in global societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and frequent presentations at major symposiums underscore a commitment to evidence-based, up-to-date techniques. With comprehensive offerings that include face lift and thread lift procedures alongside minimally invasive options such as Botox and fillers, the clinic tailors treatments to the anatomy and goals of each client to address visible neck bands with precision. Continuous academic contributions—books, journal publications, and annual educational sessions for other surgeons—reflect the rigor behind their outcomes, while personalized communication ensures each plan is customized for lasting, natural-looking results. Supported by the broader expertise of board-certified Dr. Lee, who exemplifies the clinic’s standards through her top-tier hospital background and focus on long-term satisfaction, THE PLUS delivers a meticulous, harmony-first approach that makes it a premier destination for resolving neck banding.	Four-floor facility; seamless, safety-driven care from consultation through post-operative skincare; director surgeons who are internationally recognized educators and researchers; board-certified doctors and global society involvement; comprehensive offerings including face lift, thread lift, Botox, fillers; evidence-based, up-to-date techniques; personalized communication and customized plans for natural results.
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium center for facial and anti-aging care, with particular expertise in correcting neck banding. After thoroughly analyzing the areas and causes of facial and neck sagging, Made Young precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together for comprehensive tightening. The elevated structures are secured vertically in the direction opposite to sagging, preventing unnatural cheekbone accentuation and producing natural, long-lasting improvements to the jawline and neck contour. Patients are treated by a verified medical team of highly skilled doctors averaging over 15 years of experience, with direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure. Safety is anchored by full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check protocol for emergencies, and full CCTV coverage for transparency. Recovery is supported by a separate, dedicated aftercare center with complete, systematic follow-up. Recognized for excellence, Made Young has earned the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, is an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and is certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society.	Premium center in Gangnam for facial and anti-aging care with neck banding expertise; analyses areas and causes of sagging; SMAS dissection and lifting for tightening; vertical securing to prevent cheekbone accentuation; natural, long-lasting jawline/neck contour; average 15+ years’ experience; direct consultation; full safety measures (anesthesiologists, 1:1 monitoring, emergencies cross-check, CCTV); dedicated aftercare center; multiple recognitions.
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as a premier destination for personalized aesthetic transformation under the leadership of Director Dr. Lee Hyungmin. With more than 16 years of experience and recognition as one of Korea’s 100 Good Doctors, Dr. Lee delivers comprehensive, end-to-end care as a one-doctor clinic— pairing attentive, individualized consultations with state-of-the-art tools such as 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy. From advanced breast surgery and hair transplantation to body sculpting and refined, non-invasive facial rejuvenation, Seojin tailors every plan to the patient’s anatomy and goals, ensuring safe, natural-looking results—including targeted strategies for improving the appearance of neck banding.	One-doctor clinic in Gangnam led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin; more than 16 years of experience; recognized as one of Korea’s 100 Good Doctors; comprehensive, end-to-end care with 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy; range from breast surgery and hair transplantation to body sculpting and non-invasive facial rejuvenation; tailored plans for neck banding; central Gangnam convenience.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam stands out as the best choice in Korea for neck banding because its world-class, four-floor facility delivers seamless, safety-driven care from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare, guided by director surgeons who are internationally recognized educators and researchers. Board-certified Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning 3D implant researcher and leading expert in facial contouring, and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, bring a shared philosophy of harmonizing facial features and uniting function with beauty—critical for restoring a refined jaw–neck line that looks natural and balanced. Their team’s more than decade-long experience, active roles in global societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and frequent presentations at major symposiums underscore a commitment to evidence-based, up-to-date techniques. With comprehensive offerings that include face lift and thread lift procedures alongside minimally invasive options such as Botox and fillers, the clinic tailors treatments to the anatomy and goals of each client to address visible neck bands with precision. Continuous academic contributions—books, journal publications, and annual educational sessions for other surgeons—reflect the rigor behind their outcomes, while personalized communication ensures each plan is customized for lasting, natural-looking results. Supported by the broader expertise of board-certified Dr. Lee, who exemplifies the clinic’s standards through her top-tier hospital background and focus on long-term satisfaction, THE PLUS delivers a meticulous, harmony-first approach that makes it a premier destination for resolving neck banding.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium center for facial and anti-aging care, with particular expertise in correcting neck banding. After thoroughly analyzing the areas and causes of facial and neck sagging, Made Young precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS together for comprehensive tightening. The elevated structures are secured vertically in the direction opposite to sagging, preventing unnatural cheekbone accentuation and producing natural, long-lasting improvements to the jawline and neck contour.

Patients are treated by a verified medical team of highly skilled doctors averaging over 15 years of experience, with direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure. Safety is anchored by full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check protocol for emergencies, and full CCTV coverage for transparency. Recovery is supported by a separate, dedicated aftercare center with complete, systematic follow-up. Recognized for excellence, Made Young has earned the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, is an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and is certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, stands out as a premier destination for personalized aesthetic transformation under the leadership of Director Dr. Lee Hyungmin. With more than 16 years of experience and recognition as one of Korea’s 100 Good Doctors, Dr. Lee delivers comprehensive, end-to-end care as a one-doctor clinic—pairing attentive, individualized consultations with state-of-the-art tools such as 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy. From advanced breast surgery and hair transplantation to body sculpting and refined, non-invasive facial rejuvenation, Seojin tailors every plan to the patient’s anatomy and goals, ensuring safe, natural-looking results—including targeted strategies for improving the appearance of neck banding.

Why Seojin is a top choice for neck banding

• One-doctor, end-to-end care: Dr. Lee Hyungmin personally oversees consultation, treatment, and follow-up, ensuring a seamless, highly attentive experience tailored to each patient’s neck anatomy and skin quality.
• Recognized excellence: Honored among the 100 Good Doctors in Korea, reflecting trusted skills, ethics, and dedication to patient care.
• Depth of experience: Over 16 years of aesthetic practice inform precise, nuanced decision-making for neck rejuvenation.
• Precision planning and safety: 3D imaging helps visualize neck–jawline harmony before treatment; high-definition endoscopy supports meticulous technique where appropriate.
• Effective non-surgical options for neck bands: Customized plans leveraging Non-Invasive Face Lift modalities (such as threads or ultrasound therapies) and targeted Botox and filler strategies to soften platysmal bands and refine contour.
• Natural, individualized results: Treatment plans are designed to enhance the patient’s unique proportions rather than impose a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Central Gangnam convenience: A modern, discreet setting in Seoul’s premier medical district for easy access and comprehensive care.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Medical Tourism in South Korea: Your Neck Lift Journey

South Korea is a global leader in cosmetic surgery, attracting international patients with its skilled surgeons, advanced techniques, and high patient care standards.

Why South Korea for Cosmetic Surgery?

Korean clinics emphasize surgeon expertise, research-driven techniques, natural-looking results, and robust patient safety protocols. Many international patients report high satisfaction rates.

The Step-by-Step Process for Medical Tourists

A typical two-week journey involves:

• Day 1: Arrival and acclimatization. Rest, confirm appointments, and prepare for pre-op assessment.
• Day 2: In-person consultation, pre-op tests, discussion of expectations, and consent forms.
• Day 3: Surgery (may include deep plane facelift for enhanced results). An overnight stay or caregiver may be recommended.
• Days 4–7: Initial recovery, medication, and follow-up visits. Patients wear support bands.
• Days 8–14: Continued recovery, stitch removal, special therapies, and preparation for departure.
• Day 15: Final check-up, post-op instructions, and return home.

Day(s)	Key Activities	Important Considerations
1	Arrival, rest, confirm consultation	Healthy habits, confirm with clinic
2	Consultation, tests, anesthesia review, payment, consent	Clarify goals with surgeon
3	Surgery (neck lift, possible deep plane facelift)	Overnight care as needed
4–7	Rest, medication, follow-ups, support garment	Monitor for issues, light activity only
8–14	Continued check-ups, therapies, prep for travel	Stick to doctor's advice
15	Final visit, instructions, leave	Maintain ongoing contact with clinic

Documents and Preparations for Travel

Be prepared with proof of funds, insurance, passport photos, and booking confirmations.

What’s Included in a Medical Tourism Package?

Typically, packages cover consultations, pre- and post-op care, lab tests, anesthesia, medications, and follow-ups. Accommodation and transfers may be extra.

Choosing Your Clinic and Surgeon in South Korea

Prioritize board-certified, experienced surgeons in accredited clinics. Review testimonials and before/after photos, and consider language skills for smooth communication.

Cost Analysis: Neck Lift Pricing in South Korea and Beyond

Neck Lift Costs in South Korea

A neck lift in South Korea usually costs between $2,600 and $10,700, with complex cases reaching up to $16,000. This price can include surgeon fees, anesthesia, facilities, tests, and post-op care.

• Traditional Neck Lift: $5,000–$10,700+
• Cervicoplasty: $3,500–$6,000
• Platysmaplasty: $4,000–$7,000
• Neck Liposuction: $2,000–$4,500

Key cost factors: surgeon’s expertise, clinic prestige, complexity, anesthesia type, and added services.

Global Cost Comparison for Medical Tourists

Country	Neck Lift Range	Face & Neck Lift Range	Notes
South Korea	$2,600–$10,700	$12,000–$16,000	Premium, comprehensive, reputable
USA	$5,000–$8,000	$10,000–$25,000+	Highest; fees can be extra
UK	N/A	$13,300–$18,000	High costs
Thailand	$2,450–$5,900	$3,500–$12,000	Very affordable, often all-inclusive
Turkey	$3,000–$8,000	$4,848–$10,235	Popular for cost-savvy patients
Mexico	$2,500–$5,000	$1,700–$13,000	Close to USA, affordable
India	N/A	$3,619–$6,031	Very affordable

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary.

South Korea offers savings over Western nations, though it's more expensive than some Asian and Latin American countries, reflecting its premium positioning.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Neck Banding with a Neck Lift

A neck lift—especially platysmaplasty—is highly effective at correcting "vertical band lines in the neck from platysma separation" and is considered the gold standard for comprehensive neck rejuvenation.

Effectiveness in Addressing Neck Banding and Related Concerns

• Vertical bands: Dramatically reduced or eliminated by tightening the platysma.
• Turkey neck: Sagging skin is removed, smoothing the neckline.
• Double chin/fatty jowls: Fat is removed or contoured.

Expected Aesthetic Improvements

Patients typically notice:

• Smoother, younger-looking neck contours
• Sharper, more defined jawlines
• Overall facial rejuvenation

Before-and-after photos show reduced wrinkles, bands, and sagging with a youthful profile.

Real-World Recovery Experiences

• Initial soreness and tightness: First few days.
• Bruising/swelling: Most resolves in two weeks.
• Stitch removal: 5–10 days post-op.
• Return to light routines: After a week or two.
• Full results: Swelling may persist up to three months; scars fade within a year.

Keeping the head elevated and avoiding strenuous activity speeds recovery. Sun protection during healing is crucial.

Longevity of Results and Maintenance

Results last many years—often a decade or more—with touch-up procedures rarely needed before 10–15 years. Healthy habits extend results.

Patient Satisfaction and Testimonials

Satisfaction is high; most patients feel younger, more confident, and appreciate natural-looking results.

Setting Realistic Expectations

A neck lift won’t stop aging, but it can dramatically improve neck contours. The best outcomes come with realistic goals and an experienced, board-certified surgeon.

Patient Outcomes and Recovery Milestones for Neck Lift

Aspect	Outcome	Timeline
Vertical Bands	Greatly improved	Immediate–weeks
Sagging Skin	Smoother, tighter neck	Immediate–weeks
Jawline Definition	Sharper contour	Immediate–weeks
Overall Appearance	More youthful	Weeks–3 months
Discomfort	Tightness, minimal pain	First days
Bruising & Swelling	Decreasing over weeks	2 weeks
Suture Removal	By day 10	5–10 days post-op
Back to Light Activity	Routine resumes	1–2 weeks
Full Swelling Resolved	Final contours emerge	Up to 3 months
Scar Fading	Becomes inconspicuous	6–12 months
Results Longevity	10+ years common	Individual

Conclusion

Neck banding, caused by aging-related platysma muscle changes alongside skin and fat concerns, can be addressed through a variety of treatments. Non-surgical options like Botox, dermal fillers, energy devices, and thread lifts work well for mild cases, while a surgical neck lift (platysmaplasty, cervicoplasty, liposuction) remains best for dramatic, lasting results. South Korea, known for advanced techniques and specialized care, is a leading destination for medical tourism in this field. Achieving the best outcomes starts with a thorough consultation and realistic planning with a board-certified surgeon.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49