You’ve probably seen the chin lipo craze all over TikTok—bandaged-up influencers flaunting sharp jawlines in their “after” photos. But according to Austin, TX facial plastic surgeon Yula Indeyeva, MD, the procedure du jour isn’t chin lipo anymore—it’s the necklift. And this isn’t your grandma’s necklift.
From Chin Lipo to Full Contouring
“A lot of younger patients come in wanting chin liposuction, but what they’re really after is a fully contoured jawline,” says Dr. Indeyeva. “Chin liposuction can remove excess fat under the skin, but it doesn’t address other factors like weak chin structure, thick glands or deeper fat pads, which can leave the results looking incomplete or uneven over time.”
Instead, younger patients are now opting for what Dr. Indeyeva calls “structural necklifts,” a highly customized procedure designed to contour the neck and jawline by addressing all the layers contributing to bulk. “It’s a more comprehensive approach,” she explains. “We’re not just removing fat; we’re sculpting the area to enhance both the jawline and the overall profile.”
What is a ‘structural necklift‘?
Dr. Indeyeva’s “structural necklift,” which is essentially a deep plane necklift, often includes removing or repositioning deep fat pads, contouring glands and in some cases, placing a chin implant for better balance. For younger patients, this approach is especially effective because their skin still has excellent elasticity, allowing it to naturally conform to the new contours for seamless results.
“I recently treated a 25-year-old patient who had a heavier neck and a recessed chin,” says Dr. Indeyeva. “By addressing the deeper structures and adding a small chin implant, we were able to completely redefine her profile. It gave her the clean, sharp jawline she’d been dreaming of.”
What Younger Patients Should Know
For those considering a necklift in their 20s or early 30s, Dr. Indeyeva has a few tips. “Always ask your surgeon if they’re addressing deeper structures and not just removing fat. The results should be natural, balanced and maintainable as you age.” She also notes the importance of a long-term skin-care plan. “Protecting your investment with consistent sunscreen use and products that support collagen production is key to keeping the area looking its best.”
As the demand for sharper jawlines grows, the necklift is stepping in as the go-to facial reshaper for Gen Z. “It’s all about creating harmony in the face,” says Dr. Indeyeva. “This isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about helping patients look and feel their best, no matter their age.”
