A Modern Approach to Aging Gracefully

As time passes, it’s natural for the face and neck to show signs of aging. In Korea, where beauty and harmony are deeply valued, facial rejuvenation has become both an art and a science. Many patients now choose to combine a facelift with a neck lift for a more balanced and transformative outcome. This dual approach smooths wrinkles, lifts sagging skin, and refines the jawline—all while preserving natural facial expressions.

We spoke with Dr. Seonghyeok Yang, board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Hugo Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, who noted, “When the face is lifted but the neck is left untreated, patients often feel that the rejuvenation looks incomplete. Addressing both areas together creates the most seamless and satisfying results.”

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, targets the lower two-thirds of the face—primarily jowls, deep folds, and skin laxity. Dr. Yang prefers the deep plane and SMAS techniques for their natural, long-lasting effects. “These methods allow us to reposition the underlying muscles and fat pads, not just pull the skin,” he explains. By focusing on the deeper structural layers, surgeons can create more authentic and enduring rejuvenation.

The incisions are placed around the ears and into the hairline to remain discreet. Most patients are surprised at how inconspicuous the scars become once fully healed. The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours under general anesthesia or twilight sedation and can be customized depending on the degree of aging and desired outcomes.

Understanding the Neck Lift

Often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart, the neck lift—or platysmaplasty—corrects sagging skin, vertical banding, and fat accumulation beneath the chin. “The neck is one of the first areas to age, yet it’s often neglected in standalone treatments,” says Dr. Yang. “Combining it with a facelift ensures continuity and prevents contrast between a youthful face and aging neck.”

Using small incisions behind the ears and under the chin, the procedure tightens the platysma muscles, removes excess fat (often via liposuction), and smooths the skin to restore a youthful neckline. For some patients, additional treatments such as submental liposuction or chin augmentation may be recommended to enhance results.

Why Combine Them?

Performing both surgeries in one session has numerous advantages:

• Harmonious Results: Treating both areas at once avoids the mismatch of an aged neck with a youthful face.
• Single Recovery Period: Patients recover from both procedures simultaneously, saving time.
• Cost Efficiency: Shared surgical time, anesthesia, and facility use lower overall costs.
• Enhanced Satisfaction: The overall transformation feels more complete and impactful.

At Hugo Plastic Surgery, nearly 80% of facelift patients opt for a neck lift as well, reflecting the growing awareness of holistic rejuvenation. Many international patients also find the combined procedure ideal due to limited travel opportunities and the convenience of a single recovery window.

Additionally, the dual approach allows for more artistic control. Surgeons can adjust proportions and transitions more fluidly when working on both regions in tandem, delivering better symmetry and aesthetic balance.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

Healthy adults aged 40–70 with signs of aging in both the face and neck often benefit most. Ideal candidates:

• Have skin laxity in the lower face and neck

• Maintain good general health

• Are non-smokers or willing to quit pre-surgery

• Hold realistic expectations

During your consultation, a detailed facial assessment will include measurements of skin elasticity, fat volume, and muscle tone. Digital imaging or 3D simulation may be used to preview expected changes.

Dr. Yang emphasizes thorough consultation: “We assess skin texture, muscle tone, and fat distribution to personalize every surgical plan. No two faces age the same way.”

Patients with diabetes, heart disease, or a history of keloid scarring may require additional precautions or be advised toward alternative solutions. In some cases, staged procedures are considered for better healing and safer outcomes.

What to Expect: From Consultation to Recovery

Your journey begins with a detailed assessment, including 3D imaging and facial mapping. Dr. Yang and his team will discuss your goals and suggest a customized surgical strategy tailored to your facial anatomy and lifestyle needs.

• Duration: 3–5 hours
• Anesthesia: General or twilight
• Incisions: Around the ears, hairline, and possibly under the chin
• Techniques: SMAS/deep plane lift, platysma tightening, fat repositioning or removal

Once the incisions are made, the surgeon carefully lifts and repositions facial structures. The goal is not to over-tighten, but to restore natural contours. Sutures are placed to secure tissues, and drains may be used temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation.

• Week 1: Bruising, swelling, mild discomfort managed with medication
• Week 2: Most swelling decreases; return to desk work or light activities
• Weeks 4–6: Resume exercise, enjoy significant aesthetic improvements
• Month 3+: Final results visible, incisions fade into natural creases

Post-operative protocols may include LED light therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, or scar management products. Hugo Plastic Surgery offers a full aftercare program with both in-person and remote check-ins.

Realistic Results and Long-Term Satisfaction

Patients can expect a rejuvenated but not artificial appearance. The jawline sharpens, cheeks regain lift, and the neck appears smooth and youthful. Most results last 8–12 years depending on lifestyle and genetics.

Ms. Lee, a 57-year-old patient, shares: “I chose to have both done at once. The recovery was manageable, and the outcome was incredible—I look like myself, just 15 years younger.”

While the results are long-lasting, maintaining them involves skin care, sun protection, and sometimes periodic non-surgical maintenance such as laser treatments or skin tightening devices.

Emotional benefits are also significant. Studies have shown improved self-perception and social confidence among cosmetic surgery patients—particularly when expectations are aligned with natural outcomes.

Hugo Plastic Surgery: Setting a Standard in Korea

Located in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, Hugo Plastic Surgery is known for its meticulous surgical standards and warm, multilingual patient care. Dr. Yang, a former university professor and ASPS affiliate, is renowned for his precision and artistry in facial procedures.

The clinic features hospital-grade facilities, including HEPA-filtered operating rooms, advanced imaging systems, and in-house anesthesia services. Every staff member is trained to prioritize patient comfort, cultural sensitivity, and transparency.

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