Table of contents

• Neck Lift Procedures: A Detailed Medical Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Sagging Submental Skin
• Your Journey to a Neck Lift in South Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide for Medical Tourists
• Navigating Neck Lift Costs: South Korea vs. Global Medical Tourism Destinations
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Sagging Submental Skin
• Important Considerations Before Your Neck Lift Journey
• 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!

---

Sagging submental skin is the term for the loose, drooping, or wrinkled skin that forms under the chin and along the neck, often making the jawline less pronounced. While commonly linked to aging, other factors like genetics and lifestyle play a significant role.

You'll find various terms describing these concerns:

• Turkey Neck: This refers to loose, crepey skin beneath the chin and on the neck, resembling a turkey’s wattle.
• Double Chin (Submental Fullness/Fat): Describes excess fat under the chin, which creates the look of another chin and makes the jawline less distinct. It isn’t always related to weight—it can also be hereditary or age-related.
• Jowls: These are saggy areas around the jaw, neck, and chin caused by skin and soft tissue moving downward as elasticity fades.
• Platysmal Bands: Vertical lines or bands that become visible as you age, resulting from the weakening or separation of the platysma muscle.

The primary cause of sagging submental skin is aging—our bodies produce less collagen and elastin over time, making the skin less firm and more prone to sagging. Muscle weakening beneath the skin, significant weight changes, sun damage, genetic factors, the shape of your neck bones, poor posture, and repeated facial expressions all influence the severity of this concern.

The underlying cause—be it fat accumulation, skin laxity, or muscle changes—greatly influences the right treatment. For example, neck liposuction works for excess fat but isn’t suitable for older individuals with loose skin, as it may worsen the problem. So, identifying the true cause of your concern is key before seeking any treatment.

A comprehensive consultation—one that looks at your history, lifestyle, and anatomy—is crucial to create a tailored and effective treatment plan. The diagnostic stage is often just as important as the procedure itself for lasting, satisfying results.

Neck Lift Procedures: A Detailed Medical Overview

Neck lift procedures, also known as platysmaplasty or cervicoplasty, are designed to create a smoother and more youthful neck and jawline. They tackle wrinkles, sagging, and excess skin—and are often combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures for a harmonious result. A well-performed neck lift often lasts 7–10 years, with advanced techniques boasting even greater longevity.

Here’s a breakdown of the main neck lift procedures:

Cervicoplasty

This surgery removes and tightens loose skin on the neck. Incisions are made behind the ears and/or under the chin. If necessary, liposuction can remove fat at the same time. The result is a sharper jawline and a smoother neck.

Platysmaplasty

This procedure targets the platysma muscle to reduce "bands" or cords on the neck. Incisions are placed around the ear or under the chin, and the surgeon tightens or realigns the muscles, sometimes removing excess skin and fat. The outcome is a firmer, more defined neck.

Deep Plane Neck Lift

One of the most advanced options, this surgery not only removes fat and skin but also repositions deeper connective tissues (SMAS) and muscles. This delivers a comprehensive, long-lasting improvement and a natural look, with well-hidden incisions for minimal scarring.

Submental Liposuction

Submental liposuction is ideal for removing extra fat under the chin—the “double chin.” It uses a tiny incision under the chin or behind the ears, through which a suction cannula removes the fat. Quick recovery and immediate results make it popular for younger patients with good skin elasticity but it’s unsuitable for patients with significant skin laxity.

Traditional Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy)

The most comprehensive of the options, this classic procedure combines skin removal and muscle tightening to address jowls, sagging, and excess fat. Incisions are cleverly placed near the hairline, around the ear, and sometimes extending into the hair at the back of the head. This approach restores firmer, younger-looking contours.

The choice of technique depends on the exact cause—whether that’s fat, loose skin, muscle banding, or deep tissue laxity. That’s why a thorough diagnosis from an experienced surgeon is essential.

These procedures are often combined with other surgeries (like facelift or eyelid lift) to achieve a balanced, natural result rather than just focusing on the neck in isolation.

Comparison of Key Neck Lift Procedure Types

Procedure Name	Primary Focus	Targeted Concerns	Typical Incision Locations	Anesthesia Type	Recovery Time (Initial)	Longevity of Results	Ideal Candidate Profile
Cervicoplasty	Skin removal	Sagging skin, "Turkey Neck"	Around/behind ear, under chin	Local/General	1–2 weeks	7–10 years	Significant skin laxity
Platysmaplasty	Muscle tightening	Vertical neck bands, "Turkey Wattle"	Around/behind ear, under chin	Local/General	1–2 weeks	7–10 years	Prominent muscle bands
Deep Plane Neck Lift	Deep tissue (SMAS) lift, muscle tightening	Sagging skin, double chin, prominent bands, undefined jawline	Under chin, behind ears	General	1–2 weeks	10–15+ years	Comprehensive aging, long-lasting goals
Submental Liposuction	Fat removal	"Double Chin", localized fat	Under chin, behind ears	Local/General	3 days–1 week	Permanent (fat removed)	Younger, good skin elasticity
Traditional Neck Lift	Skin, fat, muscle tightening	Jowls, jawline/neck sagging, excess fat	Hairline (sideburn), around ear, posterior hair	Local/General	2–3 weeks	7–10 years	Moderate–severe sagging, jowling

Best Clinics in Korea for Sagging Submental Skin

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for sagging submental skin:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Comprehensive end-to-end system for sagging submental skin across four dedicated floors; emphasizes world-class standards grounded in research and ongoing academic participation; surgeons contribute to journals and books and stay current through domestic and international symposiums; commitment to safety, individualized communication, and continuous advancement to support natural-looking improvements that fit overall facial proportions.	Rhinoplasty, facial contouring, 3D implants
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Premium center specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures with a focus on natural-looking improvement for sagging submental skin; analyzes area and causes of sagging, dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched tissues, then lifts skin, fat, and SMAS together for comprehensive tightening; lifted tissues are secured vertically in the opposite direction of sagging to help prevent unnatural cheekbone prominence and support long-lasting, balanced facelift outcomes.	Submental lifting via SMAS dissection and release; lifting of skin, fat, and SMAS as a unit; vertical fixation to oppose sagging; long-lasting, balanced facelift outcomes.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Dedicated options for sagging submental skin; treatment philosophy built on sincerity, precision, and individualized planning; personalized design based on aging patterns; selection of the most suitable lifting strategy, and when appropriate, combining it with laser lifting to enhance tightening and overall contour.	Full face lift; mini lift; endoscopic forehead lift; thread lifting; personalized design with potential laser lifting as applicable

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, Seoul offers a comprehensive, end-to-end system for patients seeking solutions for sagging submental skin, with care designed to flow smoothly from consultation and surgery to post-treatment skincare across four dedicated floors. The clinic emphasizes world-class standards grounded in research and ongoing academic participation, with surgeons who contribute to journals and books and stay current through domestic and international symposiums. This commitment to safety, individualized communication, and continuous advancement supports patients who want natural-looking improvement that fits their overall facial proportions.

THE PLUS is led by an experienced team of board-certified specialists known internationally for education and innovation. Dr. Kim, a board certified plastic surgeon and award-winning researcher in 3D implants, is recognized for rhinoplasty and facial contouring and is committed to achieving harmonious facial balance that enhances each patient’s existing features. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is respected globally for his work in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty and is known for an approach that combines function and beauty in every plan. Dr. Lee, a board certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation with experience at leading hospitals including Seoul National University Hospital, is active in major Korean plastic surgery societies and focuses on natural, long-lasting results for sustained patient satisfaction.

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 specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, with particular focus on natural-looking improvement for concerns such as sagging submental skin. After carefully analyzing the specific areas and causes of sagging, the team precisely dissects beneath the SMAS layer to release stretched supporting tissues, then lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS layer together for comprehensive tightening. The lifted tissues are secured vertically in the opposite direction of sagging, helping prevent unnatural cheekbone prominence while supporting long-lasting, balanced facelift outcomes.

The clinic is known for its verified medical team—only highly skilled doctors with an average of 15+ years of experience—providing direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure. Safety is supported by full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check emergency response system, and full CCTV coverage during procedures for transparency. Patients also benefit from a separate aftercare center for systematic post-procedure management, alongside recognized achievements including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award, 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and official certifications and selections by leading Korean professional societies.

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

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic in Korea offers dedicated options for patients concerned about sagging submental skin, using a treatment philosophy built on sincerity, precision, and individualized planning. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, the clinic focuses on personalized design based on each patient’s aging patterns, selecting the most suitable lifting strategy and, when appropriate, combining it with laser lifting to enhance tightening and overall contour.

For submental laxity and lower-face aging, the clinic provides various face lift options, including full face lift, mini lift, endoscopic forehead lift, and thread lifting, allowing care to be tailored to both the degree of sagging and desired downtime. Led by a team of specialized professionals, including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic emphasizes a comprehensive, empathetic patient journey supported by modern techniques and detailed treatment planning.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Your Journey to a Neck Lift in South Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide for Medical Tourists

Choosing South Korea for a neck lift means understanding each step along the way. Here’s what international patients can expect:

Initial Consultation and Pre-Operative Assessment

Your journey starts with an online consultation, during which the medical team assesses your needs, recommends the right procedure, and provides price and recovery details. Once you arrive in Korea, you’ll have a thorough in-person consultation involving the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and other specialists. Clinics use high-tech imaging (like 3D facial scans) to map changes and set realistic expectations.

South Korea requires mandatory health screenings—blood tests, EKG, chest X-rays—to ensure you’re fit for surgery and minimize risks. Full disclosure of your medical history is essential, and stopping smoking (at least six weeks before surgery) and avoiding certain meds is strongly advised.

The Surgical Procedure: What to Expect on the Day

Surgery is done under IV sedation or general anesthesia. Incisions are carefully placed in natural creases or behind the ears to hide scars. The surgeon then tightens the skin, removes excess fat, and adjusts underlying muscles as needed. Surgery usually takes 1–2 hours, though complex cases can take longer, and you might need to stay overnight if you have general anesthesia.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery Timeline

• Days 1–3: Clinics provide pain management via IV, swelling and bruising peak, and rest is essential. Head elevation and cool compresses help.
• Days 4–7: Swelling subsides, stitches come out, and patients wear a compression band. Daily wound care and anti-swelling therapies—like LED treatment and IVs—are offered, and walking is encouraged.
• Weeks 2–3: Major swelling/bruising lessen, and light activities resume. Tightness and numbness fade gradually.
• Months 1–3: Neck definition improves further, light exercise is okay, and residual swelling decreases. Full healing and scar maturation happen within 3–12 months.

Korean clinics excel with their holistic aftercare—daily wound cleaning, recovery therapies, and dietary support—which provides a supportive environment for healing, especially valuable for medical tourists.

Logistics for International Patients

Arrive in Korea 2–3 days before your procedure for jet lag and final tests. Plan to stay 10–14 days for surgery and initial recovery. Booking a flexible return flight and arranging for a friend or support person is highly recommended.

Many clinics offer recovery accommodations with medical supervision, dietary support, in-room therapies, and bilingual staff. Leading agencies (like Shin Medical) assist with translations, bookings, transportation, and even mediate discounts or added after-care.

A deposit secures your surgery slot, and full payment is usually collected before the procedure. Always check with your bank about international payment limits in advance.

Navigating Neck Lift Costs: South Korea vs. Global Medical Tourism Destinations

The cost of a neck lift is an important factor—here’s how South Korea stacks up:

Average Costs of Neck Lift in South Korea

In South Korea, a neck lift typically costs ₩6,600,000–₩9,900,000 KRW ($4,800–$7,200 USD as of May 2025). Promotional packages or simpler procedures may be as low as $1,820–$2,600, but full-featured surgeries tend to be higher.

What’s Typically Included in the Price?

Packages in South Korea generally cover everything: pre-op assessments, all tests, surgery and anesthesia, hospital stay if needed, post-op meds, follow-up care, and translated support. Dedicated coordinators guide you through each step, ensuring there are no surprise costs.

Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. USA, UK, Thailand, Turkey, and Mexico

Country	Estimated Neck Lift Cost (USD)	What’s Included (Highlights)	Notes for Tourists
South Korea	$4,800–$7,200	Pre-op tests, anesthesia, surgery, hospital, aftercare, support staff	Transparent, comprehensive packages, high safety
USA	$7,000–$70,000	Surgeon’s fee (extras often separate)	High, with extra anesthesia/facility/other fees
UK	$8,900–$19,000+	Often higher for advanced procedures; inclusions vary	High cost, can be combined with facelift
Thailand	$2,000–$5,000	Surgery, sometimes hotel/transfers	Affordable, common packages for moderate cases
Turkey	$2,500–$6,416	Surgery, anesthesia, hospital, sometimes hotel/transfers	Competitive, popular for medical tourism, all-inclusive
Mexico	$2,500–$6,350	Surgery, anesthesia, pre-op tests, 1-night stay, some local transport	Affordable, especially for US visitors

While prices in South Korea are considerably lower than in the US or UK, the main benefit is that packages are more all-inclusive, giving you a clear sense of the total cost—without hidden fees. Elsewhere, prices are often “unbundled,” leading to surprises. Lower pricing isn’t everything: always consider surgeon expertise, clinic reputation, and patient reviews. Agencies specializing in medical tourism can help you verify quality and safety standards, which is especially important if you find prices that seem too good to be true.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Sagging Submental Skin

A neck lift is one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate the neck and jawline for those with sagging skin, extra fat, or neck bands. Results include a sharper profile, less double chin, and tighter, smoother skin. Surgery succeeds where diet, exercise, and non-surgical treatments often don't offer enough improvement—especially with moderate or severe laxity.

If you prefer to avoid surgery, there are non-invasive options like Sofwave ultrasound (improving skin lift for most patients), Kybella (an injection for double chin), and Botox for platysmal bands. Their results are more subtle and temporary compared to surgery.

After their neck lifts, most patients are highly satisfied. They feel more refreshed and confident, with many reporting a renewed sense of youth and freedom from self-consciousness about their neck or chin. A modern neck lift is designed to look natural instead of overly tight. Though results can last 7 to 15 years, the natural aging process continues; results aren’t permanent. Be ready for a recovery period involving swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary numbness. Full results may take up to a year to manifest.

Neck lifts reset the clock, not stop it. Ongoing care (skincare, sun protection, occasional maintenance treatments) will help maintain your results.

Important Considerations Before Your Neck Lift Journey

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about a neck lift:

• Thorough Consultation & Personalization: Get a full evaluation and choose a plan tailored to your specific concerns for the best results.
• Expectations & Recovery: Neck lifts can be dramatic and long-lasting but not permanent. Expect initial swelling or bruising, and know that final results take time.
• Financial Understanding: Choose comprehensive packages to avoid extra costs and always confirm what's included beforehand.
• Clinic & Surgeon Credentials: Check your surgeon’s expertise and the clinic’s accreditation. Use reputable agencies or local guides to ensure safety and quality.
• Post-Care Commitment: Following recovery instructions and attending follow-ups is key for the best outcome.
• Consider Alternatives: If your case is mild or you prefer non-surgical options, treatments like Kybella, Sofwave, or Botox can help, though not as dramatically as surgery.

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, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55