Effective Recontouring of the Neck by Complete Platysmal Transection.

[BACKGROUND] Increasing the effectiveness and longevity of a rhytidectomy is a constant pursuit in aesthetic surgery. Contouring of the cervicomental angle and jawline is perhaps the most contentious approach to improving outcomes. Full release of the platysma and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) unit near its inferior border offers a powerful technique to resuspend and bolster the newly surgically restored acute cervicomental angle.

[OBJECTIVES] The goal of this study was to demonstrate the effectiveness and longevity of neck recontouring by complete platysmal transection.

[METHODS] A retrospective chart review was performed on all face/lower face/neck lift patients. Operative reports were reviewed to ensure that full release of the platysma-SMAS unit was performed for resuspension. Retrospective photographic analysis was performed to evaluate the objective results of increased cosmesis of the rejuvenated neck and jawline.

[RESULTS] Impressive cosmetic results were demonstrated in patients who had full release and resuspension of a plicated platysmas and SMAS unit. These results were objectively appreciated. The enhanced cosmetic appearance was demonstrated to have good longevity and a profound effect on augmenting the acuteness of the cervicomental angle and the cosmetic appearance of the mandibular border.

[CONCLUSIONS] Release and resuspension of the platysma SMAS unit is an incredibly powerful and long-lasting modality for improving the cervicomental angle and delineation of the mandibular border in facelift patients.

[LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3] (Therapeutic).