NECKLIFT / PLATYSMAPLASTY
Neck Lift / Platysmaplasty
Even when we take care of our bodies, eat right, exercise, and stay out of the sun, the neck area can become a problem for many people over 40. The years take a toll on your skin, but it could be argued that your neck is the first place to see the tell-tale signs of age.
A Neck Lift, also known as a Rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that treats the signs of ageing on the neck. The procedure addresses:
- Excess fat in the lower face.
- Excess skin at the jawline, jowls.
- Loose neck skin.
Difference between Neck Lift and Platysmaplasty:
Neck Lift Surgery and Platysmaplasty may seem similar, but there are significant differences between these procedures.
Whereas a Neck Lift Surgery helps an individual improve the appearance of the neck, jawline and throat, a Platysmaplasty involves reconstruction of the neck muscles. Platysmaplasty surgery is commonly used to address one or more of the following issues:
- Fatty jowls.
- Droopy skin.
- Double chin.
Neck Lift surgery is typically performed under anaesthesia. Dr. med. Strouthou first makes a small incision behind each of the patient’s ears; in some instances, she may also make a small incision under the patient’s chin. Next, Dr. med. Strouthou tightens the patient’s neck muscles, as well as removes sagging or excess skin from the neck. This helps the patient achieve a firm, youthful-looking neck.
Skin-SMAS-Platysma Lift: Generally performed for more mild neck lift cases, the skin lift involves lifting and tightening the neck and throat skin, creating a more toned appearance in the neck. Dr. med. Strouthou will always support the SMAS-platysma to get long lasting results.
Platysmaplasty: This procedure tightens underlying muscles in the neck, known as platysma muscles. During the ageing process, these muscles are responsible for the unwanted appearance of bands in the neck. A Platysmaplasty addresses these muscles while concurrently repositioning fat to create a tighter, more youthful neckline.
Neck Lift surgery, like other facial plastic surgeries, comes with its share of risks. These risks are very rare however. Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it is essential to understand what complications are possible and how to minimise your risks. Neck lift patients might experience some of the following side effects and complications:
- Reactions to anaesthesia.
- Infection.
- Hematoma or seroma.
- Tightness of the neck.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Asymmetrical results.
- Irregularities such as lumpiness.
- Blood clotting.
Afterwards, your neck may feel tight, and you may notice some bruising, which fades in a couple of weeks. Sutures (stitches) can come out in five to 10 days.
During your recovery from neck lift surgery, a bandage could gently be placed around your face and neck to minimise swelling and bruising when your procedure is completed. A thin tube may be present to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect under the skin.
You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health.
It is important to keep your head elevated above your heart to minimise swelling and to keep your head straight (no excessive twisting or bending of the neck).
Recovery from a Neck Lift takes several weeks.
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