Short Scar Neck Lift for Double Chin Removal

Having a sharp jawline and smooth neck profile is a hallmark of youth and elegance.

However, due to weight gain, aging, or a naturally weak chin, many people start noticing a double chin in their 30s or 40s.
For these cases, a 3–4 cm incision under the chin can dramatically redefine the neck and jawline.

This technique is known as a Short Scar Neck Lift, or Mini Neck Lift, and is a unique procedure at Noonopi Plastic Surgery in Seoul.

What Is a Short Scar Neck Lift?

Short scar neck lift is contouring surgery of the neck.

Step 1: Small incision under the chin 

A discreet 3–4 cm incision is made under the chin.

Step 2: Platysma muscle dissection

The platysma muscle and subcutaneous fat are carefully separated. This broad sheet-like muscle extends from the collarbone to the lower face.

Step 3: Deep fat removal

Unlike conventional liposuction, this procedure removes deep fat under the platysma muscle—something liposuction cannulas cannot access.

Step 4: Submandibular gland (salivary gland) reduction 

In some patients, especially after deep fat is removed, the submandibular glands become more prominent.
When necessary, we surgically reduce a portion of the gland for a smoother contour.

Reducing this gland is a highly specialized procedure, requiring experience and precision due to the many surrounding blood vessels.

Though not widespread in Worldwide yet, this technique has long been advocated by facelift pioneers like 🔗Dr. Connell and Dr. Marten for its ability to refine the neck when the head is flexed forward.

Step 5: Platysma muscle tightening

The platysma bands are then sutured together to tighten the neck.

Step 6: Skin closure

Finally, the incision is closed with care. The scar is barely visible under the chin and typically heals well.

Benefits of the Short Scar Neck Lift

a) Better than chin liposuction alone

This procedure addresses skin laxity, deep fat, and muscle bands—things liposuction can't fix.
Even without cutting excess skin, removing volume allows loose skin to re-drape naturally as seen in the photo above.
 

b) Improved side profile

Tightening muscles and removing salivary glands provides a sleek and youthful jawline.
For those with extra skin, a small incision behind the ears can be added as seen in below.

c) Synergy with facelift

When performed with a facelift, the results are significantly enhanced.

Surgery Time and Anesthesia

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Anesthesia: IV sedation

Post-Surgery Recovery & Aftercare 

Drain placement

Helps reduce swelling and bruising.

Diet

Avoid spicy or irritating foods for at least 2 weeks if gland reduction was performed.

Compression garment

Wearing a chin compression strap (also called “tightening mask”) 24/7 for the first 2 weeks is mandatory. It is advised to put additonal one month for better long lasting results.

Posture

o Avoid using pillows for 1 month when sleeping.
o Prevent neck bending, especially when using smartphones.
o Try the “elbow-knee” posture to help maintain posture.
o Wearing a cervical collar can also help reduce subconscious neck bending.

Temporary firmness in the neck

o It's normal for the neck to feel hard or uneven due to scar tissue during healing.
o Oral scar medication, ultrasound massage, or 🔗BBL SkinTyte laser may help speed up recovery.
 

Should I Combine Neck Lift with a Facelift? 

Combining both surgeries often delivers more dramatic and cohesive results, especially when the jawline and lower face are affected by sagging.

If you're looking for a more defined jawline and lasting double chin removal, a short scar neck lift may be a more effective and permanent solution than liposuction alone.

Have more questions?
📲 feel free to reach out via 🔗WhatsApp
 

Noonopi Plastic Surgery | Dr. NK Park

This blog post is for educational purposes only.
All treatments carry individual risks and individual results may vary.
Please consult with a certified professional.