What Is Turkey Neck?
Turkey neck refers to the sagging and loose skin under the chin and along the neck, often resembling the wattle of a turkey. This condition develops naturally as part of the aging process but can be worsened by genetics, weight fluctuations, and sun exposure. The appearance of loose neck skin can be frustrating, but advanced surgical techniques offer effective solutions to restore a smooth, contoured neckline.
What Are The Main Symptoms?
Common symptoms of turkey neck include:
- Sagging skin around the neck and jawline
- Deep neck bands or folds
- Laxity in the neck muscles
- A lack of definition between the chin and neck
What Contributes to a Turkey Neck?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a turkey neck:
Aging
The facial aging process leads to reduced collagen production, skin elasticity, and muscle tone, causing sagging and drooping skin in the neck area.
Genetics
Some individuals are more predisposed to developing a turkey neck due to genetic factors, which can influence skin quality and fat distribution.
Sun Damage
Excessive sun exposure over the years accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature sagging of the neck skin.
Weight Fluctuations
Frequent weight gain and loss can stretch the skin and weaken the neck’s supportive structures, resulting in a turkey neck appearance.
How Can Turkey Neck Appearance Affect Your Life
Evolving gradually, turkey neck can alter facial proportions, drawing attention away from the eyes and smile. Many turkey neck NY patients report avoiding profile photographs, high‑definition video calls, and certain clothing necklines because the excess tissue catches the light unfavorably. Beyond aesthetics, the weight of sagging neck skin may contribute to poor posture and muscular discomfort, reinforcing a cycle of self‑awareness that can dampen social engagement and professional confidence.
Can It Be Prevented or Treated?
While genetics and gravity cannot be stopped, proactive skincare, sun protection, and weight stability help delay loose neck skin. Once a pronounced turkey neck forms, however, topical creams and energy devices offer only subtle, temporary tightening. For definitive contour correction, Dr. Rizk performs turkey neck surgery using a hidden‑incision, deep‑plane approach that removes excess fat, suspends the platysma, and refines the cervicomental angle to create a smooth, natural result that endures.
Why Choose Dr. Rizk for Your Turkey Neck Treatment?
Recognized worldwide for pioneering minimally visible facelift techniques, Dr. Rizk applies the same precision to turkey neck solutions. His sub‑SMAS strategies address deeper structures, not just surface skin, reducing the need for revision. A pioneering 3D endoscopic system lets him visualize ligament release in high definition, shortening recovery and enhancing safety. He lectures globally on advanced techniques, sharing outcomes that shape modern neck surgery standards.
- Thousands of successful turkey neck surgeries with less than 1 % complication rate documented over decades.
- Double board certification & 25+ years dedicated exclusively to facial and neck procedures.
AAAASF‑accredited private suite and invitations to lecture worldwide on deep‑plane and endoscopic innovations.
Awards & Certifications
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Long-Term Solutions for Turkey Neck in NY
While non-surgical options like Botox or fillers can provide temporary relief for minor sagging, turkey neck surgery is the most comprehensive, long-term solution. Dr. Rizk’s specialized deep plane neck lift not only tightens the skin but also repositions the deeper muscles and connective tissue (platysma) for a more natural, enduring lift. This approach ensures that both the skin and underlying structures are properly supported, creating a smoother, more youthful neckline.
First Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Rizk will assess your facial structure, review your goals, and use advanced imaging to create a personalized surgical plan. You’ll receive pre-op instructions to optimize healing, including medication adjustments and lifestyle recommendations.
Surgery Day
On surgery day at Dr. Rizk’s JOC surgical facility in New York City, he uses deep plane techniques and discreet incisions hidden behind the ears or under the chin to lift and reposition underlying tissues for natural, long-lasting results.
Recovery
Most patients resume normal activities within two weeks. The results are far more lasting compared to non-surgical methods, though patients may require a touch-up between 10 and 15 years as part of the natural aging process. A facelift can also complement the treatment to create an even more balanced and youthful facial appearance.
Good Candidates for Turkey Neck Surgery
If sagging neck skin has started to blur your jawline, a brief in‑office evaluation will confirm whether surgery can safely deliver the refinement you want. Ideal candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to severe loose neck skin or pronounced turkey neck.
- Visible horizontal platysmal bands or bulging muscle edges.
- Excess submental fat that persists despite diet and exercise.
- Reasonable skin elasticity to permit a smooth redrape after lifting.
- Healthy, non‑smoking adults, often 40 + with stable weight and no uncontrolled medical conditions.
- Realistic expectations and willingness to follow post‑operative instructions for optimal healing.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
Ready to see a smoother neckline in the mirror? Schedule your private turkey neck NY assessment with Dr. Rizk in Midtown Manhattan by calling (212) 452‑3362 or using our secure online form.
Still Have Questions?
Explore more about turkey neck surgery and related treatments by reading our blog.
Read Our Blog for More Tips:
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Interested to Know If You’re a Candidate? Reach Out Now
Dr. Rizk’s extensive understanding of neck muscles, skin, and bone structure allows him to customize treatment options that ensure your desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What non-surgical treatments are available for loose neck skin that offer long-lasting solutions?
While many practitioners might rely heavily on non-surgical treatments, Dr. Rizk understands that surgical intervention often provides the best results. However, Dr. Rizk also recognizes the value of non-surgical treatments as adjuncts to procedures. These treatments can further refine and enhance surgical results, addressing minor concerns and ensuring that the skin’s texture and quality match its newly rejuvenated contour.
How long will the results of turkey neck surgery last?
The results of a deep plane neck lift are long-lasting, typically providing up to 15 years of rejuvenation, depending on your lifestyle and skin quality.
Will there be visible scars after the surgery?
Dr. Rizk employs advanced techniques to ensure incisions are discreetly placed, making scars virtually undetectable once healed.
Are there any neck exercises for loose skin tightening?
Some exercises like neck stretches, chin lifts, and neck rotations can strengthen the underlying muscles and improve the overall neck appearance, and give the illusion of tighter skin. Dr. Rizk can assess your specific condition and offer the most suitable treatment option to help you achieve your desired results. Contact Dr. Rizk today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how he can help address your sagging neck skin concerns.
Can I have a neck lift and other procedures done simultaneously?
Yes, combining a neck lift with other cosmetic procedures can provide comprehensive rejuvenation and address multiple concerns. Many individuals choose to undergo a number of procedures simultaneously to achieve more harmonious results. Common procedures that are often combined with a neck lift include facelifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), brow lifts, and chin augmentation.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Rizk
Call (212) 452‑3362 or click here to book your private turkey neck NY consultation, review 3‑D simulations, and receive a personalized surgical roadmap—then leave with a renewed, confident neckline.
Dr Rizk In The Media
Dr. Rizk was voted by his peers as a Top Doctor in 2025 – For the 21th consecutive year!
Connolly Best Doctor
Dr. Rizk featured in Town & Country Magazine as one of the masters of the subtle lift and tweak that will turn back time
Voted by peers to New York Magazine’s 2013 Top Doctors
New Advances in Facelifting Techniques by Dr. Sam Rizk
Baby Facelifts: The Secret Celebrity Procedure
By Dr. Sam S. Rizk, M.D., FACS.
Dr. Rizk is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty surgery and is a recognized expert on the latest advances in facial plastic surgery techniques. He performs a range of facial plastic surgeries at his New York practice.