Cervicoplasty in Puerto Vallarta
Neck Lift: Cervical Contouring and Definition
Removal of excess sagging skin and tightening of the platysma muscle in the neck and under the chin, achieving a clean, defined, and naturally rejuvenated jawline.
What is a neck lift?
A neck lift, or cervicoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to tighten soft tissues, reposition the cervical muscle, and eliminate excess sagging skin in the neck and double chin area.
Our philosophy prioritizes a structural muscular approach. Cervical sagging is not just an issue of excess fat or stretched skin, but rather a relaxation of the platysma muscle (the vertical bands that become visible with age). We avoid simple liposuction in patients with skin laxity—which would cause the skin to look wrinkled or saggy—and instead prioritize performing a muscle plication (cervical corset) to ensure a defined, clean, and firm contour.
The goal is to restore a sharp and youthful cervical angle, significantly improving the transition between the chin and the neck in an entirely natural-looking way.
What it changes
- ✓Elimination of loose skin or 'turkey neck'
- ✓Tightening of the platysma muscle bands
- ✓Definition of the angle between the chin and neck
What it does not change
- •Sagging of the cheeks or upper nasolabial folds
- •Chin bone volume (requires chin implant/mentoplasty)
- •Superficial skin quality or sun spots
What does the plan usually include?
Rejuvenation of the neck contour is planned by analyzing each anatomical layer:
Liposuction or fat resection
Removal of accumulated fat under the chin to reduce double chin volume before proceeding with muscle tightening.
Platysma plication
Joining and securing the loose edges of the platysma muscle at the midline (using permanent sutures) to create a firm muscular support.
Resection and draping
Discreet draping of excess skin behind the ear, removing redundant skin without creating excessive tension on the sutures.
* Frequently combined with a chin implant (mentoplasty) to enhance jawline definition (profiloplasty).
You might be a candidate if...
- ✓You have moderate to severe skin laxity in the neck ('turkey neck').
- ✓Visible vertical neck bands are present due to the separation of the platysma muscle.
- ✓The line dividing your chin and neck is poorly defined or obtuse due to sagging and fat.
- ✓You have a relatively stable weight and controlled overall health.
Alternatives should be considered if...
- •You only have subcutaneous fat accumulation under the chin and have young, elastic skin; in this case, double chin liposuction alone is sufficient.
- •You have mild skin laxity; non-surgical biostimulation treatments or lipolytic enzymes are better initial alternatives.
- •You are an active smoker and are unwilling to completely stop smoking during the pre- and postoperative periods.
How We Define Your Plan
An individualized clinical consultation is essential. During this evaluation, we analyze fat thickness, skin laxity, and platysma muscle tone to design a clean and safe neck rejuvenation plan.
“We aim to restore a defined jawline. We evaluate bone support to plan whether a chin implant is recommended.”
We determine if the fat accumulation is superficial (liposuction) or deep behind the muscle (requiring direct surgical excision).
We identify the degree of muscle separation to plan the midline approximation of the fibers in the operating room.
We plan incisions behind the earlobe and in the crease of the ear to ensure they remain hidden under tied-back hair.
The Procedure, Explained Simply
A small 3 cm incision under the chin and/or behind the ear, camouflaged once fully healed.
The muscle is brought together and permanently sutured, acting as a corset that supports the neck contour.
Performed under controlled general anesthesia or deep sedation in a hospital operating room for your comfort.
Usually outpatient, though staying the first night in the hospital may be suggested depending on the complexity of the case.
Preparing for Your Surgery
Responsible preparation is essential to optimize surgical safety and facilitate a smooth, comfortable postoperative recovery.
Recovery Timeline
The postoperative process after a cervicoplasty is gradual. Initial rest and facial compression with a chin strap are crucial for a successful contour.
Days 1 to 3 — Removal of Dressings and Drains
We remove the initial dressings and soft drains during the postoperative follow-up. Continuous use of the chin strap begins. Neck swelling is normal and expected.Days 7 to 10 — Removal of Sutures
We remove the sutures from the incisions in our office. Bruising and acute swelling begin to progressively subside.Week 2 — Relative Return to Work
Most patients return to office work. The chin strap can be discontinued during the day, keeping it on only at night for an extra week.Months 3 to 6 — Final Contour Definition
The muscle and skin settle permanently into the new jawline angle, with residual internal swelling fully resolving.
Surgical Safety and Excellence
Each procedure is performed under the highest quality standards, backed by solid training and official board certifications.
CMCPER certification, active member of AMCPER and ISAPS.
Surgeries performed at CMQ Premiere Hospital (PV) and Puerta de Hierro (Tepic).
An approach focused on proportional and natural results for your face.
Detailed anatomical study of neck aesthetics and structure.
Healing reviews and medical support throughout your entire postoperative period.
Advanced platysma muscle plication techniques for maximum stability.
Surgical Safety & Realistic Expectations
Like all facial surgery, a neck lift requires an ethical clinical analysis. During your consultation, we review your medical history, neck skin elasticity, and jawbone structure to minimize risks and confirm if surgery is appropriate for you.
An in-person clinical consultation is the only way to define the anatomical feasibility of your aesthetic goals.
Care for Out-of-Town Patients
If you live outside the region or abroad, we facilitate your medical process through a preliminary virtual consultation and clinical logistics guidance from our dedicated team.
What is included
- ✓Guidance on appointment scheduling and medical agenda
- ✓Clinical and logistical preoperative recommendations
What is not included
- •Flights and direct lodging reservations
- •Logistical services unrelated to clinical coordination
Cost of a neck lift: what determines the budget
The cost of a neck lift should not be defined generically or without a prior medical evaluation. Each surgical budget is individualized and tailors to the specifics of your case.
During your clinical evaluation, Dr. Uriel Muñoz will assess your anatomy and define a customized surgical plan. The final procedure budget is determined based on the following factors:
- •Extent of tightening and whether it is associated with deep cervical liposuction.
- •Combination with other procedures such as a chin implant or mid-facelift.
- •Operating room fees at a certified clinic or safe hospital.
- •Specific anesthesiologist fees and medical team supplies.
Common Questions About Neck Lifts
World-Class Medical Infrastructure
For your peace of mind and medical safety, all surgical procedures are performed exclusively in certified hospitals with intensive care units and valid sanitary accreditation.
Puerto Vallarta, JaliscoCMQ Premiere Hospital
The most prestigious hospital facility in Puerto Vallarta for elective surgeries. Features premium amenities focused on patient comfort and comprehensive surgical safety.
- High-tech equipped surgical suites
- Fully equipped Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- Nationally certified facilities
- Specialized bilingual medical staff
Tepic, NayaritPuerta de Hierro Hospital
High-specialty hospital and member of the region's most prominent medical network. Provides international-level infrastructure and comprehensive tertiary medical support.
- High-specialty surgical blocks
- State-of-the-art Intensive Care
- Accredited by the General Health Council
- International hospital safety standards
Personalized Consultation
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Medical Review: Content prepared under the supervision and approval of Dr. Uriel Muñoz, board-certified plastic surgeon by the Mexican Board of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery (CMCPER Registration #2585). Last medical review: July 8, 2026.
Scientific Sources and Reference Clinical Guidelines: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) - Neck Lift Surgery guides; Mayo Clinic - Cervicoplasty patient information; CMCPER.
* This information is educational and does not replace a medical consultation. Individual results, recovery, risks, and recommendations vary by patient.