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Changes in the neck are due to excess fatty deposits below the chin, loose hanging skin, separation of the platysma in the midline, and thickening of the platysma muscle edges which cause vertical bands in the neck. As the platysma muscle loses its attachment to the neck, the junction between the chin and the neck loses its angle and becomes blunted.
The procedure
The neck can be addressed alone or with a facelift. Excessive fat in the neck can be removed with liposuction, but in most instances, a short incision is needed below the chin to remove excess fat and address the muscles of the neck by placating platysmal separation in the midline and transaction of longitudinal bands. With a facelift, tightening of the SMAS and tension behind the ear and along the posterior hairline will rejuvenate the neck. Without a facelift, adjunctive measures to tighten the neck skin, such as ultrasonic treatment or direct skin excision. The procedure takes 0.5 to 1.5 hours and can be done with local or general anesthesia.
After your operation
Postoperatively, the neck will be bruised and swollen and will feel tight for 7 – 10 days. Elevation of the head and a circumferential dressing or a chin strap will limit swelling and bruising. Sutures are removed at 1 week. It can take up to 2 to 3 months to appreciate the final result.
All of the descriptions for the various procedures are condensed from the text of the upcoming textbook written by Dr. Christopher Park and Dr. Malcolm Marks and are copyrighted, "The Artistry of Plastic Surgery: Exploring the Experience” . |
