How can it help?
These central bands appear early and are due to the stretching and coming apart in the midline of the two Platysma muscles present on either side of the neck. These muscles form a corset for the contents of the neck and hold the deeper structures in position.
A neck lift will improve the appearance of an aging neck, creating a more youthful jawline. It may also be appropriate to create a more defined neck/jawline in any adult age group.
Consultation
The first step when you are considering a neck lift is a consultation with Dr. Arianayagam. You should frankly discuss your goals and expectations at this consultation.
Dr. Arianayagam will ask you a variety of questions about your current health situation, medications, allergies and any past medical treatments. He will carefully examine your neck and face. He will then discuss the options available and his recommendations.
Ideally, a second consultation is had a week or two later to give you the opportunity to come back with more questions and to confirm your decision.
Procedure
Corset Platysmoplasty
A horizontal incision is made on the inside of the chin, giving access to the midline of the neck. The fat from deep inside the platysma muscle is removed and the platysma is tightened and brought together at the midline. Very little skin is removed as most will shrink and tighten over time.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia at Coffs Harbour Day Surgery or the Baringa Private Hospital. The procedure takes 1-2 hours and is performed as a day procedure, meaning you will be able to go home the same day.
Extended Neck Lift
In addition to the Plastysmoplasty, incisions are made in front and behind the ears to give access to the skin on the sides of the neck. The skin is raised from the deeper tissues, permitting removal of some skin, but most of the improvement is by the skin tightening that occurs as a result of it being raised from the deeper tissues.
This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia as an inpatient at Baringa Private Hospital.
Recovery
You should expect some bruising and swelling immediately after surgery. The worst of the swelling generally clears in the first 72 hours, but it can take 3-6 months for things to completely settle.
You will have a dressing around you neck, which will be wrapped with a bandage that compresses the area. In some cases a drainage tube will be required for 1-2 days after your operation.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to work after about 2 weeks. You should refrain from strenuous exercise for 4 weeks.
