Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty)
By Dr. Douglas Grace, B.Sc., M.D., F.R.C.S.C.

The neck lift, known technically as platysmaplasty, is a procedure to tighten loose skin and the underlying muscle under the neck and around the jawline.

A number of different procedures can be used for a neck lift.  The skin can be tightened via incisions made in front and behind the ear and into the hairline.  Sometimes an incision is also made under the chin.  If the problem with the neck is due to fat, not excess skin, sometimes liposuction alone can be used to give a more pleasing profile.  However, the muscle under the neck is usually also tightened.

The results can look quite natural afterwards.  The neck lift can give a more youthful definition to the jawline, remove jowls and fleshy excess skin.  The best results are obtained on individuals that had a pre-existing good bone structure, together with skin that still retains a degree of elasticity.

Many people combine a neck lift with either a face lift, eye lift or both.

What may I expect after surgery?

When you awaken from surgery, you will probably be wearing a pressure bandage which will be wrapped around your head and underneath your chin.  You will be bruised, swollen and sore with a slight degree of numbness, however, this will resolve quickly.

You will get an indication of your likely final appearance after about a week to ten days, although the scars, which are usually hidden either under the chin or in the hairline will take awhile to fade.