Table of contents

• Exploring Your Options: Medical Procedures for Neck Rejuvenation
• Best Clinics in Korea for Turkey Neck
• Medical Tourism in South Korea: Your Journey for Cosmetic Surgery
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing "Turkey Neck"
• Conclusion
• References

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The neck is often one of the first areas to reveal signs of aging or the physical effects of significant weight loss. Many people feel self-conscious about what's commonly called "turkey neck," a term that describes saggy, loose skin hanging beneath the chin. Understanding what causes turkey neck, including its relationship with underlying neck anatomy, can help you explore the best solutions for a fresher, more youthful profile.

"Turkey neck" refers to the sagging, loose skin under the chin and along the neck, resembling a wattle. This issue generally appears due to age-related loss of skin elasticity, but it can also result from rapid or major weight loss—leaving behind extra skin that doesn’t fit the reduced volume. While this condition is mainly cosmetic and typically harmless, it can have an outsized impact on self-esteem. Other popular terms for this concern include "wattle" and "double chin". In medical contexts, a double chin is sometimes referred to as "buccula".

Understanding Platysmal Bands

Platysmal bands often show up alongside turkey neck as two vertical lines or cords that become more prominent with age, especially after one's mid-50s. These form from the platysma muscle, a thin, broad sheet extending from the chest through the lower face and neck. As we age, the platysma can pull away and become more visible, adding to an aged or tense neck appearance.

Turkey neck and platysmal bands may appear together, but they stem from different sources—skin/fat laxity versus muscle prominence. Because of their intertwined presentation, effective treatments typically address both issues, whether tightening skin and fat or repositioning muscle. Focusing on one alone—like performing liposuction without considering loose skin or treating bands with neurotoxins—may result in a less natural outcome.

Exploring Your Options: Medical Procedures for Neck Rejuvenation

Solving turkey neck and platysmal banding involves a range of treatments—from minimally invasive procedures to comprehensive surgery. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common and effective options:

Face Lift (Rhytidectomy): A Comprehensive Approach

"Face lift," or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure for lifting and firming sagging facial tissues—essentially turning back time on the face. While this surgery is aimed mainly at the face, its benefits often extend to the lower jaw and neck, reducing signs like jowls, double chin, or loose skin. The process involves a surgeon repositioning tissues, tightening the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), sculpting or removing fat, and excising any extra skin.

Key Techniques

Several facelift techniques are tailored to individual anatomy and goals, highlighting the importance of customization:

• SMAS Facelift: This technique targets and lifts the SMAS, the tissue layer beneath the skin, delivering natural and durable contouring.
• Deep Plane Facelift: An advanced method that repositions deeper tissue and muscle beneath the SMAS, offering dramatic and lasting results.
• Mini-Facelift: A less invasive option using shorter incisions for early-stage sagging, usually focusing on the jowls or upper neck.

What a Facelift Cannot Address

While a facelift is powerful for reducing sagging and deep lines, it doesn’t smooth dynamic wrinkles (from repeated facial movement), fix skin texture issues or discoloration, or lift sagging brows or eyelids. Procedures like neurotoxin injections, chemical peels, brow lifts, blepharoplasty, or fillers may be needed for these concerns. Additionally, a facelift doesn’t change facial bone structure.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Recovery after a facelift takes time and patience:

• Days 1–7: Expect swelling, bruising, and tightness; drainage tubes may be used for a day or two. Keeping your head elevated is vital, and gentle movement (like walking) helps circulation. Sutures are typically removed by day 7.
• Weeks 2–4: Swelling and bruising fade. Many return to desk jobs or social activities, but strenuous exercise is still off-limits.
• Months 2–6+: Full results are typically visible by 6 months. Some residual numbness or tightness can persist for several months, and scars continue to fade over the year.

Complete recovery—physically and psychologically—may take up to a year. It’s important to maintain realistic expectations and be patient with the ongoing healing process.

General Care

Post-surgery, gentle cleansing, lots of hydration, fragrance-free moisturizer, and vigilant sun protection (SPF 30+) are key. Avoid alcohol and smoking during healing as they can slow down recovery and raise complication risks.

Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy/Platysmaplasty): Focusing on the Neck

A neck lift—lower rhytidectomy or platysmaplasty—targets the visible signs of aging in the neck and jawline.

Procedure Details and Objectives

The main goals: tighten loose neck skin, remove extra fat (especially double chin or turkey neck), and restore youthful neck contours. Incisions are typically hidden behind the ears or under the chin. Surgeons may use neck liposuction to remove deposits and tighten the platysma muscle for a supportive “neck corset” effect, before trimming and re-draping the skin. For some younger patients, liposuction alone may suffice if their skin has enough elasticity.

Ideal Candidates

Best suited for those with sagging skin or loose muscles in the neck, visible bands, excess fat, or double chin. Candidates should be in generally good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Recovery protocols for neck lifts closely mirror those for facelifts:

• Days 1–7: Swelling, bruising, tightness, and the presence of bandages/drain tubes. Rest, elevation, and medication are key. Light activities may resume as swelling diminishes.
• Weeks 2–4: Stitches are removed; swelling and bruising improve. Gradual return to normal activities (but no heavy exercise yet).
• Months 2–3+: Most swelling resolves, and the final neck contour is visible. Complete healing may take several months.
• Longevity: Results may last 10–15 years, though revision could be needed as natural aging progresses.
• Risks: Potential complications include bleeding, scarring, infection, nerve injury, skin loss, anesthesia reactions, or patient dissatisfaction.

Neck Thread Lift: A Minimally Invasive Alternative

The thread lift—nicknamed "lunchtime lift"—is a minimally invasive treatment using absorbable, barbed sutures to lift sagging neck skin.

How it Works and What it Treats

A doctor inserts special threads into targeted areas using a small needle or cannula. These threads instantly lift the skin and stimulate collagen over time for ongoing firming. Thread lifts are suited to treating early laxity, jowls, sagging brows, or premature neck skin loosening.

Candidate Profile

Ideal for those seeking subtle, natural-looking improvements with minimal downtime, especially when not yet ready for surgery.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Actual patient experience suggests at least 3 days of recovery—sometimes with temporary puckering or folds. Full return to normal activities might take a few days, but initial swelling or tightness can persist for 1–2 weeks.

• First 24–48 hours: Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common. Cold compresses and head elevation reduce discomfort. Avoid applying pressure, washing, makeup, or heavy products in the first day.
• Days 3–7: Swelling and bruising subside. Resume gentle skincare. Avoid strenuous activities and facial muscle strain.
• 2–4 weeks: Most effects resolve; normal exercise and makeup application return.
• Longevity: Results develop fully in 1–3 months and typically last 1–2 years.
• Dos and Don’ts: Rest, hydrate, avoid pressing surgical areas, skip strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks. Exposure to sun, steam, and alcohol or smoking should be avoided. Cosmetic treatments and dental work also need to be postponed.

Best Clinics in Korea for Turkey Neck

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

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Four-floor, purpose-built clinic; internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons (Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, Dr. Kim Taek Kyun); philosophy of facial harmony integrating function and beauty; standout in lower-face and neck rejuvenation (Turkey Neck); includes Dr. Lee, board-certified breast specialist; safety-first culture with active society memberships and scholarly activity; streamlined end-to-end care; international standards brought to Gangnam.	Surgical facelift; minimally invasive thread lift; face fat grafting; Botox; fillers; skin-tightening treatments; elite facial contouring and facelift expertise for precise jawline/neck rejuvenation.
PangPang Clinic	Distinguished dermatology and skin care plastic surgery clinic in Gangnam; exclusive focus on thread lifting; decade of research-driven practice; world’s first and only Thread Lifting Research Institute; personalized, data-driven approach; high safety standards and enduring patient satisfaction; dedicated Thread Lifting Consultation Center and Revision Center; minimal downtime; comprehensive care system and aftercare.	Ultrasonic pre-operative design and precise vectoring; 31 specialized functional threads (lifting, assist, tightening, volume) for personalized neck lifting; Minute Lifting; PIM Injection; complementary advanced laser and scar-care options when appropriate.
Haru Clinic	Leading destination for non-surgical turkey neck rejuvenation in Gangnam; led by Dr. Jeong (Merz research physician and educator training doctors in filler techniques); designs for facial harmony and balance; transparent communication, individualized treatment roadmaps, and meticulous follow-up; minimal downtime; complementary Double Chin Lift protocols and All In One Lift plans; commitment to safety and satisfaction.	Precision neuromodulators for platysmal bands; Belotero-based filler support for jawline and chin; collagen-tightening technologies for lax skin; state-of-the-art thread lifts to lift and scaffold the neck; cohesive neck–jawline contour refinement.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Nestled in the Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a four-floor, purpose-built clinic that delivers seamless, world-class care from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—educators, researchers, and frequent presenters at global symposiums—the clinic pairs academic rigor with personalized artistry. Their philosophy centers on facial harmony and the integration of function and beauty, making THE PLUS a standout destination in Korea for lower-face and neck rejuvenation, including the concerns commonly known as Turkey Neck. The team also includes Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, underscoring the clinic’s depth of expertise and commitment to natural, long-lasting results.

• Why THE PLUS is the best clinic for Turkey Neck
• Harmonious, natural results: Dr. Kim’s emphasis on balanced facial proportions and Dr. Jeong’s function-meets-beauty ethos ensure the neck, jawline, and chin are treated as a unified aesthetic for natural outcomes.
• Elite facial expertise: The clinic’s strengths in facial contouring and facelift procedures translate directly to precise jawline and neck rejuvenation, ideal for sagging skin and banding typical of Turkey Neck.
• Comprehensive options under one roof: From surgical face lift to minimally invasive thread lift, face fat grafting, Botox, fillers, and skin-tightening treatments, the team tailors plans to the severity of neck laxity and each patient’s goals.
• Proven leaders and educators: Dr. Jeong serves as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; Dr. Kim runs annual educational sessions, holds awards for 3D implant research, and has authored the reference text “Rebuilding Nose,” reflecting technical mastery and evidence-based practice.
• Safety first, always: A seasoned team with over a decade of experience, active memberships in leading societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and ongoing scholarly contributions reinforce the clinic’s safety culture.
• End-to-end experience: Four dedicated floors streamline consultation, surgery, and post-op skincare, supporting smoother recoveries and meticulous follow-up for neck rejuvenation.
• International standards, local accessibility: Surgeons who lecture, publish, and perform live surgeries at global forums bring cutting-edge techniques to Gangnam, ensuring patients benefit from the latest advancements in neck and lower-face aesthetics.

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

PangPang Clinic

PangPang Clinic is a distinguished dermatology and skin care plastic surgery clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district, renowned for its exclusive focus on thread lifting and its leadership in non-surgical rejuvenation for concerns like turkey neck. Over the past decade, the clinic has honed unmatched expertise by dedicating its research and practice to thread lifting alone, establishing the world’s first and only Thread Lifting Research Institute, and sharing its innovations through invited lectures and presentations at international beauty conferences. With a personalized, data-driven approach—supported by ultrasonic pre-operative design, 31 specialized functional threads, and a dedicated Thread Lifting Consultation Center—PangPang delivers precise, natural-looking neck lifting with minimal downtime, high safety standards, and enduring patient satisfaction.

Why PangPang Clinic is the top choice for turkey neck • Exclusive thread-lifting specialization: A decade of singular focus on thread lifting translates to refined protocols for neck laxity, jawline definition, and submental contouring without surgery.
• World-leading innovation: Home to the world’s first and only Thread Lifting Research Institute, driving continuous advances specifically applicable to neck tightening and contour refinement.
• Evidence-based results: Ongoing development of high-satisfaction techniques grounded in rigorous research and clinical data for predictable, natural neck rejuvenation.
• Precision planning: Ultrasonic visual assessment and meticulous pre-operative design ensure accurate vectoring and safer placement tailored to each patient’s neck anatomy.
• 31 specialized threads: Strategic use of lifting, assist, tightening, and volume threads allows fully personalized solutions for banding, creping, and sagging unique to the neck.
• Tailored consultations: The Thread Lifting Consultation Center listens carefully to goals and comfort levels, aligning anesthesia options and thread combinations to individual needs.
• Minimal downtime, lasting effect: Typically a 30–60 minute procedure with minimal discomfort and downtime, and results that last about a year or more.
• Comprehensive care system: Unlimited thread customization and a dedicated aftercare package help maximize and maintain lifting effects in the neck area.
• Revision expertise: A specialized Thread Lifting Revision Center to correct prior unsatisfactory thread lifts, restoring a smoother, more defined neck contour.
• Complementary enhancements: Minute Lifting for quick touch-ups and PIM Injection to support skin elasticity and texture, alongside advanced laser and scar-care options when appropriate.

You can check out their website here: PangPang Clinic Website

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic in Gangnam stands out as a leading destination in Korea for non-surgical turkey neck rejuvenation, uniting elite expertise with thoughtfully customized care under the guidance of Dr. Jeong—an official research physician at Merz, the company behind Belotero Filler, and a respected educator who trains doctors in the latest filler techniques. By carefully designing each patient’s face for harmony and balance, Dr. Jeong blends precision neuromodulators for platysmal bands, strategic Belotero-based filler support for the jawline and chin, collagen-tightening technologies for lax skin, and state-of-the-art thread lifts to lift and scaffold the neck—often achieving transformative, natural-looking improvements with minimal downtime. Complementary options such as Double Chin Lift protocols and comprehensive All In One Lift plans further refine the neck–jawline contour, addressing fat, sagging, and definition in a cohesive, tailored sequence. Situated in Seoul’s vibrant aesthetic hub, Haru Clinic distinguishes itself through transparent communication, individualized treatment roadmaps, and unwavering commitment to safety and satisfaction—from the first consultation through meticulous follow-up. By overcoming the limitations of traditional approaches with innovative, non-invasive methods and long-lasting solutions suited to each patient’s anatomy, Haru delivers results that for many candidates can rival more invasive options while preserving a refreshed, authentic appearance.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

Medical Tourism in South Korea: Your Journey for Cosmetic Surgery

South Korea leads in cosmetic surgery, drawing thousands of medical tourists each year. Here’s what to expect if you’re considering traveling for a procedure.

The Process of Undergoing Cosmetic Procedures in South Korea

International patients follow a structured journey:

Initial Consultation and Planning

Start with an online consultation—often via email or messaging apps—with staff fluent in multiple languages. You’ll send photos and medical history for an initial assessment. This phase helps guide procedure recommendations and travel logistics, but medical decisions ultimately rest with the doctor.

Once suitable, book your in-person consultation and reserve surgery dates, keeping travel and recovery in mind.

Arrival and In-Person Assessment

Upon arrival, some hospitals provide airport pickups. Plan sightseeing before your surgery as your energy may wane during recovery. At the hospital, you’ll check in, undergo photos and pre-op tests, and review paperwork with a consultant.

Pre-Surgery Preparations and Payment

Many clinics use 3D imaging and AI tools to simulate outcomes, refining your request. Risks, timelines, and expectations are thoroughly reviewed. Payment is usually required prior to surgery and typically does not include all post-surgical medications—so ask about extras.

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery in Korea

You’ll likely stay in South Korea for 7 to 14 days to allow for follow-ups, dressing changes, and medication. Many clinics offer recovery extras—like compression garments or spa treatments. Dedicated patient managers and interpreters help you navigate communication or logistics.

Travel and meal recommendations are tailored for safety. Consider visiting during non-peak months for a smoother experience.

Cost Analysis: Procedures in South Korea vs. Other Countries

South Korea is celebrated for advanced surgery at accessible prices. International patients can save 40% to 65% compared to Western alternatives, especially when choosing all-inclusive packages (covering consultation, procedures, accommodation, and transfers).

Cost of Face Lift in South Korea

A facelift in Seoul typically costs $1,800–$25,400 (average about $13,600). Mini facelifts usually range from $5,000–$9,000; deep or full facelifts cost $9,000–$18,000. Some all-inclusive packages fall between $9,139 and $13,000.

Cost of Neck Lift in South Korea

Neck lifts cost $1,820–$10,700 (average around $6,589); basic packages can start at $2,600.

Cost of Neck Thread Lift in South Korea

Thread lifts are priced $500–$1,500 per area, with larger areas costing more. This remains very affordable compared to Western prices.

Comparative Cost Advantage for Medical Tourists

Below is a comparison of approximate price ranges for popular procedures across several countries, demonstrating South Korea’s relative affordability:

Procedure	South Korea (USD)	USA (USD)	UK (USD)	Thailand (USD)	Turkey (USD)	Mexico (USD)
Face Lift	$5,000–$18,000	$10,000–$50,000	$13,300–$20,000	$1,500–$12,000	$1,500–$13,900	$1,700–$13,000
Neck Lift	$1,820–$10,700	$6,300–$15,000	$9,000–$14,000	$2,450–$3,500	$3,216–$10,500	$3,000–$6,000
Thread Lift	$500–$1,500	$1,000–$2,500	$1,000–$2,500	$500–$1,500	$500–$1,500	$500–$1,500

Note: Prices vary by clinic, surgeon, and inclusions. Some costs listed for thread lifts are general values, not neck-thread-specific.

This comparison shows that South Korea generally beats the USA and UK in price while offering world-class skills, technology, and bundled services. Other destinations might be cheaper, but South Korea’s blend of expertise and medical tourism infrastructure makes it a leading choice for quality and value.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing "Turkey Neck"

People who undergo procedures for turkey neck or platysmal bands often report a big boost in appearance and self-confidence. Here’s how outcomes stack up for each treatment:

Success Stories with Face Lifts

Patients who undergo facelifts to address turkey neck often describe remarkable satisfaction. Reviews commonly mention thorough surgeon explanations, attentive care, and scars that are barely detectable. Many feel the outcome looks "refreshed," not surgically altered—particularly appreciated by those with notable skin laxity or after weight loss.

Effectiveness of Neck Lifts

Neck lifts specifically target sagging, bands, and excess fat. Reports from patients—male and female—often highlight dramatic improvements and a restoration of neck contours, even after severe laxity or genetic traits. One high-volume review noted a 94.8% satisfaction rate for neck lifts. While swelling and temporary nerve issues can occur, the quality-of-life boost is often substantial after recovery.

Outcomes with Neck Thread Lifts

Thread lifts are best for mild to moderate tissue sagging or early-stage jowls. Patients enjoy the nearly instant lift and rapid recovery, with many noting a return to work within days. Results, while visible, may not be as dramatic as surgery and typically last 1–2 years. Some experience mild, temporary side effects or less impressive longevity, underscoring the need for maintenance treatments.

Conclusion

Turkey neck, characterized by saggy skin and sometimes prominent platysmal bands, can be addressed through a variety of medical procedures tailored to each person’s needs and anatomy. Face Lifts (Rhytidectomy), Neck Lifts (Lower Rhytidectomy/Platysmaplasty), and Neck Thread Lifts offer solutions ranging from surgical longevity to minimally invasive refreshment. South Korea stands out as a global destination, blending expertise and affordability for cosmetic surgery seekers. Choosing the best solution requires personalized consultation and realistic expectations for both recovery and results.

References

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