Is it possible to use fat to actually cover platysma bands on upper neck?

Question

During neck lift there was aggressive lipo which unmasked my platysma bands. I am referring to the upper part of neck, at the angle of transition from under-chin to neck, where at least the skin is thicker than lower on neck. I have so little fat left under skin now that I have been told anterior platysmaplasty might give a smooth result. I do not care about a 90 degree angle, perfect neck. I want only to hide the banding if possible. Thank you for your opinions.

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

Over aggressive liposuction of the neck during face and neck lift procedures can lead to unmasking other irregularities that are more difficult to correct.  I would suggest trying Botox to these prominent platysma bands to see if this softens their appearance.  A formal platysmaplasty may be required if the bands are very noticeable and separation of the muscle is apparent.  I do not feel that fat grafting is going to be of much benefit in this scenario.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fat injections to the neck is only useful if a special technique of nanofat injections is used.  Otherwise traditional approaches will be useless and give poor outcomes.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your description, you will likely do better with a plastysmaplasty.  The best advice you can receive would be from an in-person consultation.  Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person. Best wishes and good luck. Richard G. Reish, M.D. Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Norman Bakshandeh Day, MD, FACS · Answer

Platysma bands are caused by a structural problem with. The muscle of the neck has separated in the midline and thus they look splayed. The only true solution is to bring the muscle back to its mate in the midline. Botox will work as well but it is a band aid

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You might be better off to plicate the platsyma muscle and divide the bands inferiorly as well. Hard to say without an exam.

Is it possible to use fat to actually cover platysma bands on upper neck?

Answers (8)