Complex SMAS-platysma and senility.

Following an anatomic study of 18 hemifaces, the authors show the modifications to and the behavior of the complex SMAS-platysma in the process of senility. Through this investigation, they succeeded in better understanding the anatomic modifications to the face's deep structures caused by the loss of tonicity and consequent flaccidity of the integument upon them. The investigation also showed the ligamentary fixations existing among the SMAS, the parotid-masseteric fascia, the major and minor zygomatic muscles, and the adherences of the platysma to the mandible periosteum.