A Deep Plane Neck Lift by Dr. Garrett Locketz is among the most powerful, long-lasting, and elegant forms of surgical neck rejuvenation available. With only one small incision underneath the chin, Dr. Locketz addresses the neck's deep muscle layers and deep tissues, producing a dramatic and beautiful neck contour while eliminating incisions around the ears required in more traditional forms of neck lifts.
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At our office in Denver deep plane neck lift procedures are designed to address fullness and heaviness in the neck and jawline. Unlike traditional neck lifts, a deep plane neck lift is performed through only one small incision under the chin. During this procedure, Dr. Locketz targets the underlying muscular structure (Platysma) of the neck and the deeper structures of the neck to improve contour and sharpen the jawline. No incisions are made around the ears, and no skin is removed.
The deep plane neck lift is most often performed under deep sedation/general anesthesia, but in select patients can be performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Locketz will make a small incision discreetly placed under the chin. Through this incision, he can access the deeper layers of the neck and manipulate the platysma layer. In some cases, liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat. The skin is then redraped smoothly over the rejuvenated underlying structures to create a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
Ideal candidates for a deep plane neck lift are in their 20s to 40s who have genetic looseness and fullness in the neck area alone, with an overall good cheek and jawline contour. Patients who have very good skin elasticity are better candidates than those with significant crepey or loose skin.
Patients should be in good health, non-smokers, and with a BMI of 31 or under. Because this procedure does not include the incisions around the ears that are performed during a Deep Plane Facelift, it does not address sagging of the mid or lower portions of the face, such as looseness in the jawline or jowling.
Faster recovery: Compared to traditional neck lifts, the recovery time for a deep plane neck lift in Denver is typically shorter.
A deep plane neck lift is a specialized surgical procedure that addresses the foundational structures of the neck, specifically targeting the subplatysmal plane from the jawline to the collarbone. Unlike a traditional neck lift, which primarily pulls the skin, this technique allows Dr. Locketz to access the deeper layers of the neck (including the subplatysmal fat, the digastric muscles, and the submandibular glands). In layman’s terms, it goes much deeper than just the surface of your skin.
By addressing these deeper components, the procedure effectively treats:
In Denver’s active climate, where tech neck and premature aging from UV exposure are common, this deep-tissue approach ensures the neck's contour remains crisp and resilient, even during movement.
Many patients come to Dr. Locketz seeking a Deep Neck Lift describing similar stories –
“I’ve never had a great neck or sharp jawline. It doesn’t matter if I gain or lose weight; my neck is still heavy. I’ve even tried liposuction/other nonsurgical treatments, which provided less than desirable results”.
These patients tend to be excellent candidates for a Deep Neck Lift, as their neck fullness is primarily the result of genetic looseness of the neck muscles – not simply fat underneath the skin. No skin is removed during a Deep Neck Lift with Dr. Locketz, and there are no visible incisions. Typical social downtime after a Deep Neck Lift is approximately 5-10 days, with final results expected in about 3-4 months.
Following your deep plane neck lift Denver patients can expect some swelling and bruising, which will typically subside within a few weeks. Dr. Locketz will provide specific instructions on caring for your incision site and promoting healing. Most patients can return to work within a week or two, and strenuous activity can be resumed after several weeks.
You will see noticeable improvements within a few weeks, with the final results typically becoming visible within three to four months. With proper skin care and sun protection, the results of a deep plane neck lift can last for a decade or more.
Your Investment In Yourself
Pricing for a deep plane neck lift reflects the specialized surgical expertise, anatomical complexity, and the customized nature of the restoration required. Because Dr. Locketz exclusively uses the deep plane technique to address the underlying muscles and glands rather than just the skin, the investment accounts for a more durable and structural result than a traditional lift.
Factors influencing the final cost include the extent of the tissue repositioning, the use of our state-of-the-art surgical facility, and whether the procedure is paired with complementary treatments like fat grafting or a chin implant. During your consultation, we provide a transparent, all-inclusive quote tailored to your specific anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Yes, a deep plane neck lift can often be combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures to achieve a more comprehensive result. Some common combinations include:
Dr. Locketz will discuss your individual goals and recommend the most appropriate combination of procedures to achieve your desired outcome.
As with any surgery, some risks are associated with a deep plane neck lift. These may include:
During your consultation, Dr. Locketz will discuss these risks and take all necessary precautions to minimize them.
There are several things you can do to prepare for a deep plane neck lift, including:
During your consultation with Dr. Locketz, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and concerns about a deep plane neck lift. Dr. Locketz will examine your neck and jawline, review your medical history, and answer any questions you may have. He will also discuss the procedure, including the risks and benefits, and what to expect during recovery.
Dr. Locketz places incisions within the natural creases around the ear and behind the tragus, ensuring they remain virtually imperceptible once fully healed.
Because this technique repositions the foundational muscles rather than just stretching the skin, results typically last 10 to 15 years, significantly longer than traditional methods.
A neck lift focuses strictly on the area below the jawline and the "aging neck," while a lower facelift addresses the jowls and the mid-face area.
