Definition and Overview

Platysmaplasty is a type of neck lift procedure that aims to tighten the platysma, a band of muscles that are found on both sides of the neck to improve the angle of the jaw and lift sagging skin to achieve a more youthful appearance. This is a purely cosmetic procedure that can only be performed by board-certified cosmetic surgeons who completed at least four years of medical school and additional 2 years of residency.

Who Should Undergo and Expected Results

In general, platysmaplasty is performed on men and women who have moderate to severe loose skin around the neck and underneath the chin, which appears as wrinkles, band lines around the neck, or double chin.

The skin sags as a result of the natural aging process. As a person ages, the body produces significantly less collagen and other protein fibers that keep muscles taut, so they start to lose their elasticity. Overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can also cause or worsen the loosening of the skin since it can damage the skin’s layers and speed up aging.

However, it is important to note that platysmaplasty is not for everyone. It is not recommended for:

• People who smoke since the habit can make the recovery process more complicated
• Those who are morbidly obese or overweight. They may be requested to achieve a certain weight before the procedure can be done.
• Individuals who have unrealistic expectations or desired results
• Those who have already gone through multiple procedures especially in short intervals
  As for the expected results, the patient can achieve a more youthful look as the neck area becomes smooth. The procedure eliminates the appearance of double chin and improves the angle of the face, making it look leaner. However, the procedure does not stop aging, which means the condition, such as the sagging of the skin, will still occur in the future.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Before the procedure, the doctor schedules the patient for a consultation where the details of the procedure will be discussed. The surgeon will then plan the surgery and finalise details such as the number of muscles to be removed or how wide or high the lift would be. Before and after photos will then be taken for comparison and the surgeon will use 3D computer software to serve as a guide.

The neck lift can be done in an outpatient setting, although there have been cases where patients were required to stay overnight for monitoring. It is often performed in a hospital or a fully equipped cosmetic surgery clinic.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. An incision is made underneath the chin or around the ears to access the platysma muscles. The muscles are then pulled toward the chin or stretched wide from the midline, depending on the goal of the procedure. In certain situations, some muscle bands are removed while remaining tissues are held together with glue or stitches.

In certain cases, this procedure is performed in conjunction with other procedures like liposuction particularly if there is a significant fat buildup. This is done before the platysmaplasty in which an incision is made under the chin where a cannula that breaks down the fat is inserted. The fat is then suctioned. All incisions are closed with stitches and a compression bandage is worn for around a week or until the incisions heal.

Possible Risks and Complications

Platysmaplasty or neck lift may cause discomfort and pain for a few days. There may also be swelling and bruising (especially if liposuction was performed), as well as blood clots, numbness, and skin discolouration. In rare cases, the incisions can become infected or bleed, or the patient becomes allergic to anesthetics.

References:

• Millard DR Jr, Garst WP, Beck RL, Thompson ID.Submennta and submancibularlipectomy in conjunction with a face lift, in the male or female. PlastReconstr Surg. 1972 Apr. 49(4):385-91.

• Toft K, Keller GS, Blackwell KE.Submentoplasty. An anatomical approach. Facial PlastSurgClin N America. May 2000. 8(2):183-92.

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What is Platysmaplasty: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Introduction

If⁢ you’re unhappy with the appearance of your neck, platysmaplasty might be the solution you’ve been seeking. ​This surgical⁣ procedure, also known as a neck ‌lift, focuses on ⁢rejuvenating the neck ⁢by​ addressing loose or sagging skin, excess fat, and prominent​ vertical bands that can give the neck an aged or “turkey wattle” appearance.

Overview of Platysmaplasty

Platysmaplasty is a ​cosmetic surgical⁣ procedure‍ that specifically targets‌ the platysma muscle and ⁤the surrounding neck tissues.​ The platysma muscle is a large, thin, ⁤sheet-like muscle that extends from the​ chest up to the lower jaw and plays a crucial role ⁣in ⁤the neck’s appearance.

During a platysmaplasty, your surgeon will make discreet incisions either under⁣ your chin⁣ or behind your ears,​ depending on your ‌specific needs. Through these incisions, the surgeon will access and tighten the platysma muscle, remove any excess fat,⁣ and trim‍ or reposition the skin to create a​ smoother, more⁢ youthful neck contour.

Benefits of Platysmaplasty

Platysmaplasty can provide numerous benefits⁣ for individuals seeking to improve the‌ appearance of their neck. Some noticeable ​benefits‌ include:

• Improved neck contour: ⁣Platysmaplasty can effectively‍ tighten and tone the neck⁤ muscles, resulting in a more youthful ‌and ‍defined neck contour.



• Reduction of vertical bands: The procedure addresses the vertical​ bands that form as a ​result of aging or genetic factors, creating a smoother neck appearance.



• Reduced excess fat: Platysmaplasty can remove excess fat deposits that contribute ⁣to a‍ “double chin”‍ or a less⁣ defined neck profile.



• Enhanced self-confidence: By improving the appearance⁤ of the‌ neck, platysmaplasty can significantly boost self-esteem and ⁣overall confidence.



• Long-lasting‍ results: While the aging process continues, the results of platysmaplasty are generally long-lasting, providing patients with enduring improvements to their neck appearance.

Expected Results

The results of platysmaplasty can ⁢vary ‌depending ⁤on several factors,‍ including the⁣ patient’s age, skin elasticity, overall health, and⁤ surgical technique employed. However, patients can generally expect the following ⁣outcomes:

• Smoothed neck contours: ‌Platysmaplasty eliminates excess skin and tightens the underlying muscles, resulting in​ a smoother and⁤ more defined neck contour.



• Elimination of vertical bands: The procedure effectively‌ addresses prominent ‌vertical bands, creating​ a smoother and more youthful neck appearance.



• Improved jawline definition: By ⁣tightening ⁤the underlying muscles and removing excess fat, platysmaplasty can enhance the​ definition of the⁢ jawline, creating a more sculpted and youthful facial profile.



• Reduction of excess fat: If necessary, your surgeon can ​remove excess fat deposits under the chin to provide a‌ more proportionate and balanced facial appearance.



• Natural-looking results: A skilled surgeon will strive to ‍achieve results that ⁤appear ⁣natural and harmonious with your overall ​facial features,‍ ensuring a balanced and attractive⁣ outcome.

Conclusion

Platysmaplasty offers ‌individuals‌ seeking neck​ rejuvenation a solution to‍ address loose or sagging skin, excess fat, ​or prominent vertical bands. By undergoing this procedure, patients can enjoy the benefits of an improved neck ⁤contour, reduced excess fat, and ‍increased self-confidence. With proper research and consultation with ‍a certified plastic surgeon, you can determine if platysmaplasty is the right option for you‍ to achieve the ​aesthetic goals you desire.