Platysmaplasty

Platysmaplasty is a surgical procedure that targets the platysma muscle, which is a thin, flat muscle located in the neck. The primary goal of this surgery is to improve the appearance of the neck by tightening and repositioning the platysma muscle, thereby reducing the signs of aging such as sagging skin, banding, or fullness in the neck area.

Indications

Platysmaplasty is typically performed on individuals who have:

• Prominent platysmal bands, which are visible as vertical cords in the neck
• Sagging or lax skin in the neck area
• A turkey wattle appearance due to excess fat and skin under the chin
• Asymmetry of the neck muscles

Procedure

The procedure involves making incisions, usually under the chin or behind the ears, through which the surgeon accesses the platysma muscle. The muscle is then tightened and repositioned to create a more defined jawline and smoother neck contour. This may involve:

• Dividing and reattaching the muscle
• Removing excess fat or skin
• Using sutures or other materials to suspend and tighten the platysma muscle

Types of Platysmaplasty

There are different techniques used in platysmaplasty, including:

• Open platysmaplasty: This involves making incisions to directly access and manipulate the platysma muscle.
• Endoscopic platysmaplasty: A minimally invasive technique using an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to visualize the area, allowing for smaller incisions.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with platysmaplasty, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection
• Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness in the face or neck
• Asymmetry or uneven results
• Scarring

Recovery

The recovery period for platysmaplasty can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing. Generally, patients may experience:

• Soreness and bruising in the neck area
• Swelling that may take several weeks to resolve
• Numbness or tingling sensations that are usually temporary
• A period of restricted activity, typically a few days to a week, to minimize complications

Results

The results of platysmaplasty can be long-lasting, providing a more youthful and defined appearance to the neck area. However, the longevity of the results depends on various factors including aging, lifestyle, and genetics.