Great frequently asked question. The answer depends on which patient is asking. In general, depending on indications, skin excess, and anatomy, an isolated neck lift is possible in patients from their late 30's until mid-40's wit exceptions. Once a certain amount of skin laxity is present (age related and'/or massive weight loss) and or significant platysmal banding with corresponding skin excess, the lower face has to be lifted in combination with tightening the neck. It's always best to completely address the aging changes present as opposed to performing a procedure to try to fit into a specific category. Neck lifts and facelifts have the same downtime. The least happy patient is an "underdone" patient.
