
Necklift
The isolated, deep necklift is particularly popular because it not only refines the superficial contours of the neck, but also optimizes the deeper contours of the neck and jawline.
This advanced technique is often chosen by patients who were previously disappointed with the results of traditional methods, such as classic liposuction, skin tightening or sometimes even what some surgeons call a mini-lift.
A necklift delivers a lasting and optimal result, tailored to your unique anatomy and needs.

“The neck often reveals age before the face. The deep necklift is the new mini-lift.”


What is a deep necklift?
A Deep Plane necklift is an advanced surgical procedure aimed at improving the neck contours and defining the jawline. This procedure is suitable for patients whose aging has caused laxity in this area, but also for younger individuals who naturally have a fuller neck or a less defined jawline, regardless of aging.
Rather than limiting the procedure to superficial fat removal or skin tightening, this technique addresses the deeper structures of the neck. This makes it possible to achieve a structural, long-lasting and natural-looking result that aligns with each patient’s unique anatomy.
Deep Necklift or Deep Neck Reduction?
For an optimal result when defining the neck contour and jawline, it is sometimes necessary, in addition to lifting the deeper layers (as in a classic necklift), to reduce excess volume in the neck. We do this with a deep neck reduction. Through a small incision of only 1.5 cm below the chin, we remove excess deep fat, correct the muscles and, if needed, reduce the submandibular gland (the salivary gland below the jaw).
This restores the sharp angle between the chin and neck, or creates it if it is naturally less pronounced. The result is a tighter, youthful and refined neckline.

When is a necklift needed?
As we age, tissue elasticity decreases, leading to soft tissue sagging and tissue excess. The result is loss of definition in the neck and jawline.
In some cases, a heavy or poorly defined neck and jawline may be genetic and unrelated to aging. In rare cases, this is due to significant weight loss, where the tissues lack sufficient elasticity to compensate for the volume loss and the effects of gravity.
Weight gain can likewise result in a fuller neck and less definition along the neck and jawline. In both cases, a deep necklift can be a successful treatment.
Effects of a deep necklift
Improvement of skin sagging due to aging
A necklift corrects sagging and excess skin in the neck area, offering an effective solution for the classic signs of aging.
Strengthening the neck and jawline
By tightening the deeper layers of the neck and, if needed, reducing volume in the deep neck (deep neck reduction), the neck and jawline are more beautifully and elegantly defined.
Long-lasting results
Because the procedure targets the deep layers of the neck and face, and the retaining ligaments are released, the results are long-lasting and less prone to recurrence.
It is important to know that the procedure does not stop aging. Signs of aging will redevelop at a pace that depends on the patient’s age and lifestyle.

Platysmaplasty: Essential to Deep Neck Contouring
It may all sound somewhat complex: a necklift, a deep necklift and now a platysmaplasty as well. We are happy to explain it simply.
A platysmaplasty is a technique that is often part of a necklift and focuses on improving neck contours. While the necklift tightens the skin and underlying structures and removes excess fat, the platysmaplasty specifically targets the platysma muscle, the thin muscle in the neck that can sag due to aging. This can lead to visible, vertical or horizontal neck bands.
By trimming, repositioning and approximating (suturing toward the midline) this muscle, a platysmaplasty not only strengthens the neck structure, but also improves the sharpness of the angle between your chin and neck. Combined with a necklift, this technique delivers a tighter, more youthful and beautifully defined neckline.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have any further questions? Feel free to ask. Contact us
When does the swelling go away?
It is very common to experience swelling after the procedure. Remember that your body is healing from surgery and that even pronounced swelling is normal.
It sometimes takes 4 to 6 weeks for the swelling to disappear. Most swelling will have resolved after the first 2 weeks.
The more active you are, the more swelling you may experience. The younger you are, the faster the swelling resolves. The older you are, the longer the swelling will persist. Short walks can help promote blood circulation and reduce the swelling faster.
Will I have bruising after a necklift?
Bruising after a necklift procedure is common. Any bruising can be covered with makeup after 3 weeks. Typically, all bruising resolves within the first 2 weeks.
What is the best sleeping position?
For minimal swelling, we advise you to sleep on your back. However, if you feel more comfortable on your side, you may do so.
It does not affect the final result of your necklift.
When can I take a shower?
You may shower and bathe the first day after the procedure as long as you gently clean the scars with baby shampoo and do not keep the incisions under water for too long.
Avoid water that is too hot to keep your blood pressure low.
Can I find good advice on the internet?
It is very difficult to find reliable information on the internet. Especially after your own procedure, asking Dr. Google or seeking advice on online platforms can lead to confusion or unnecessary concerns.
If you have any questions, please feel free to send us a WhatsApp message or call us.
How long will my face feel numb?
It is not uncommon for the skin of your face and the skin around the ear to be less sensitive after a necklift.
This is caused by the skin being released in certain areas from the deeper muscle layer and the deeper muscle layer itself from the underlying structures in the face. As a result, the endings of sensory nerves are inevitably disrupted. These need time to recover.
Recovery occurs in a patchwork or “patchy” pattern and full recovery is sometimes only definitive between 1 and 1.5 years after the procedure.
What should I do if I have difficulty sleeping?
Make sure your pain is well controlled throughout the day. Be careful with napping during the day. Try to plan your activities as normally as possible. If you continue to experience problems, you can call us.
Is it normal to feel pressure and tightness?
It is not uncommon to feel pressure or tightness in your face or neck. Difficulty swallowing also occurs frequently. This sometimes persists for several weeks.
To relieve any pressure sensation, make sure you take your antibiotics and pain medication, sleep in an elevated position and avoid strenuous exercise.
What should I do if I think my wounds are infected?
As mentioned above, you will experience some bruising and swelling after the procedure. You should contact us if your scar begins to discharge yellowish or cloudy fluid.
If you develop new pain that is not controlled with your pain medication, if you experience persistent chills or an elevated body temperature above 38 °C, please contact us promptly.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean that you have an infection, but they are symptoms that we need to be informed about.
What should I do if I suspect skin necrosis?
Skin necrosis is a very unlikely event. In the unlikely event of necrosis, you will see a discoloration of your skin. First the skin will appear pale and then a bluish tint may appear.
If you think you see signs of discoloration of the skin next to your scar, do not hesitate to contact us. We will examine the skin as soon as possible.
How much does a necklift cost in Belgium?
The cost of a necklift varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and any complementary procedures. During your consultation, you will receive a personal price estimate. Contact us for an appointment.
What is the difference between a necklift and a facelift?
A necklift focuses specifically on the neck and jawline, while a facelift treats the entire face. Often both are combined for a harmonious result. Dr. Van Genechten advises which approach best suits your situation.
How long is the recovery after a necklift?
After a necklift, you can resume most social activities after 7 to 10 days. Strenuous activities are discouraged for 4 to 6 weeks. The definitive result is visible after a few months, when all swelling has resolved.
Results
A facial rejuvenation procedure is a choice you make for yourself, not for the outside world. It is a decision that matures quietly, in all serenity and purely for you. In our practice, discretion is an absolute standard. Privacy is not a detail, but a cornerstone. The vast majority of our patients consciously choose to keep their results private.
What you see here is exceptional. Only a small number of patients have granted us permission to share their results. Out of respect for their trust and generosity, we wish to acknowledge this explicitly. They help others make an informed decision. These images are not a showcase, but a discreet compass, honest and invaluable.









Dr. Van Genechten
Dr. Maarten Van Genechten is entirely dedicated to aesthetic facial surgery, with the face as his absolute specialty. This passion emerged during his medical studies, where he developed his interest in microvascular facial reconstructions. He broadened his expertise during a fellowship in Brisbane, where he was exposed to various surgical disciplines.
This experience led him to a fellowship in aesthetic facial surgery in Sydney, where his interest in facial rejuvenation surgery was born and has never faded since. He now specializes in facial rejuvenation surgery, facelift surgery, brow lifts and eyelid surgery. He is also the owner of the Catershoek Surgical Center.


Schedule your consultation today
Contact us today for a personal consultation with Dr. Van Genechten. During this appointment, he will discuss your specific wishes, expectations and the potential outcomes of a procedure. Dr. Van Genechten takes the time to walk you through every aspect of the procedure and to answer all your questions.


