
Many patients seeking facial rejuvenation are unsure whether they need a facelift or a neck lift in Newport Beach. While both procedures address signs of aging, they target distinct anatomical areas.
At Kessler Plastic Surgery, Dr. Robert Kessler personalizes every plan to align with your goals. Determining the correct approach depends on your concerns, whether they involve sagging in the mid-face, jowls, or laxity in the neck.
Understanding the Key Differences: Facelift vs. Neck Lift
A facelift is primarily designed to address the mid-to-lower face. This procedure focuses on correcting sagging cheeks, deep creases extending from the nose to the mouth (nasolabial folds), and the loss of jawline definition commonly referred to as jowls.
A neck lift, in contrast, concentrates exclusively on the area below the chin. It is the solution for “turkey neck” (loose, sagging skin), excess fat under the chin, and the prominent vertical neck bands known as platysmal bands.
Enhancing Results: Facelift with Fat Transfer
A common misconception is that a facelift makes the face look “fuller.” In reality, a facelift is a procedure that involves lifting and tightening; it does not restore volume lost due to the aging process.
This is why Dr. Kessler recommends a facelift with fat transfer in Newport Beach. This technique uses your body’s own purified fat, which is then injected into areas that have hollowed, such as the temples or cheeks. This added volume restores youthful contours that a lift alone cannot achieve.
The SMAS Facelift Technique
Dr. Robert Kessler is a proponent of the SMAS facelift in Newport Beach. This advanced technique goes beyond simply pulling the skin. It addresses the deeper superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), the underlying muscle and tissue layer that is the true foundation of the face.
By repositioning this deeper layer, Dr. Kessler achieves exceptionally natural and long-lasting results. Recovery is personalized, but most patients are advised to plan for two to three weeks of social downtime as swelling and bruising subside.
The Synergistic Approach: The Lower Face and Neck Lift
For many patients in Newport Beach, the most natural-looking and comprehensive results are achieved through a combined lower face and neck lift. Facial aging does not stop at the jawline; the structures of the face and neck are interconnected.
Addressing jowls with a facelift that does not tighten the neck can create an unbalanced appearance. Conversely, a tight neck beneath a sagging face looks unnatural. Dr. Kessler often performs these procedures to create a harmonious transition from the cheeks to the jawline and down to the neck.
We invite you to see the outcomes of his approach in our facelift before-and-after gallery.
Schedule A Consultation
Understanding the nuances between a facelift and a neck lift is the first step. Next, determine a precise plan that addresses your specific anatomy and goals. Contact Kessler Plastic Surgery today to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Kessler. Whether you are in Newport Beach or visiting from out of state, our team is here to guide you.





