The Procedure – Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants

Description of Procedure

As individuals age, their neck skin and muscles become more lax and may begin to sag creating what is often referred to as a “turkey waddle.” The platysmaplasty is a surgical procedure which is designed to rejuvenate the neckline by lifting and tightening the platysma muscle, and in certain instances reducing unwanted fat. With this procedure skin is very rarely removed. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient. Dr. Majzoub prefers to make an incision under the chin in an inconspicuous region, the skin is separated from the platysma muscle and fat is reduced as needed from this region. The platysma muscle is divided in the midline and separated from the underlying tissue. Excess fat may be reduced from this region as well. In some cases additional small muscles in the neck may be removed. The platysma muscle is tightened in the midline, drains are placed in the neck region. The procedure requires 1.5-2 hours of operating time. Dr. Majzoub uses suture that dissolve to close the incision. This procedure is often combined with a face lift to address the aging face in conjunction with the neck.

Recovery

Most individuals do not experience much discomfort with a neck lift. You will be prescribed pain medication should you require it. You will have small drains placed at your operative site, these tubes prevent unwanted fluid from collecting at your operative site. You will need to change the suction tube portion of the drain every 6-8 hours over the first 24 hours. Patients are encouraged to ambulate shortly after surgery and perform breathing exercises. Patients should plan on 5 days to recover, bruising of the skin may last up to 2 weeks and can be camouflaged with makeup.

Results

Most individuals note a dramatic improvement in their neck contour following this procedure. Swelling will gradually subside over the next 4-8 weeks. Results are permanent, very few individuals will require neck rejuvenation procedures in the future. The small incision under the chin will fade with time.

For more information on whether you may be a candidate for a neck lift, contact Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants at 502.899.9996. At Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants our goal is complete patient satisfaction.

Medical Disclaimer: All medical procedures are associated with some degree of anesthetic and operative risks. Surgical results may vary from person to person. Your specific anesthetic and operative risks will be outlined at the time of your consultation.