The Ponytail & Neck Lift takes its name from the naturally lifted, refreshed appearance that a tightly worn high ponytail creates — elevating the lateral face and providing definition to the jawline and neck. The procedure combines two complementary techniques: a posterior temporal lift that tightens the cheek and jawline from above, and a platysmaplasty necklift that addresses the underlying muscular laxity, loose skin, and fat deposits of the neck. Together, they deliver a comprehensive lower-face and neck rejuvenation that recreates the elegant cervicofacial contour of youth.
Why the Lower Face and Neck Age Together
The jawline and neck are anatomically and visually connected — what happens to one profoundly affects the other:
• Sagging cheek and jowl tissue blurs the mandibular border • Platysmal bands become visible as the neck muscle separates with age • Submental fat accumulates beneath the chin • Skin laxity creates a "turkey neck" appearance • Loss of the cervicomental angle flattens the jawline-to-neck transition • An undefined neck makes the face appear heavier and older than it is
Dr. Tak's Combined Approach
Dr. Tak performs the temporal component through incisions within the temporal hairline, elevating and repositioning the lateral malar fat pad and SMAS in a superior-posterior vector. This lifts the cheek, softens jowling, and restores definition to the mandibular angle.
The neck component addresses the platysma muscle directly. Medial platysmaplasty — suturing the medial edges of the platysma together under the chin — eliminates visible banding and creates a defined, smooth cervicomental angle. Excess submental fat is removed via microliposuction through a small sub-chin incision. Loose neck skin is then re-draped and conservatively trimmed at the retroauricular incision. The result is a clean, defined jawline-to-neck transition that mirrors the youthful anatomy.
Procedure Overview
The procedure is performed under IV sedation. Incisions are placed within the temporal hairline, and behind and below the ear (retroauricular), following natural contour lines for maximum concealment. A small incision is made under the chin for platysma work and submental fat removal where needed. The entire operation takes approximately 120–150 minutes. All incisions are closed with fine sutures, with retroauricular scars typically invisible within 6 months.
Ideal Candidates
• Adults in their 40s–60s with jowling, platysmal banding, or a poorly defined cervicomental angle • Those who feel the neck is the most aging feature of their profile • Patients wanting comprehensive lower-face and neck rejuvenation in one procedure • Individuals who feel their face looks heavier than their weight suggests due to neck laxity • Those who have undergone facial treatments but feel the neck has been left behind • Patients seeking the refined, sculpted jawline-to-neck definition of their younger years
Recovery Timeline
Swelling and bruising are most notable in the first week, concentrated along the jawline, neck, and below the chin. A light compression garment is worn under the chin for 1–2 weeks to minimize swelling and support the new contour. Sutures are removed in stages between days 7 and 14. Most patients feel socially comfortable at 3–4 weeks. The sub-chin scar fades to near-invisible over 6–12 months. The final sculpted neck and jawline contour is fully apparent at 3–6 months as all swelling resolves.