5 months post op deep plane facelift, platysma muscle is TOO tight. Suggestions?

Question

I had a deep plane facelift 5 months ago by a first class, prominent NYC plastic surgeon. I immediately experienced the "noose effect." While it has gotten better (it could NOT have gotten worse), I still feel like there is a tight shoelace around my neck. I have had two rounds of Kenalog. Any suggestions to make me feel better would be greatly appreciated. I must admit I look amazing but I don't feel amazing. The way I am feeling is negatively affecting the quality of my life.

Justin C. Cohen, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm really sorry about your discomfort. This can be rather common with aggressive platysma redraping, but typically resolves with frequent massage and time. Injections often help but, again, take time to work. You are still relatively early in the healing period so try to stay patient and best of luck.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

If the platysma feels tight, and it is not significantly improving, one additional option is to release the platysma sutures that are placed in the mastoid region behind the ears.

Raghu Athre, MD · Answer

I agree with Dr. Stevens.  IA big question...how does it look?  If there is no cobra-necking/banding, etc. I would do intensive massage and physical therapy before undergoing a surgical procedure.

Nabil Fakih, MD · Answer

Deep plane face lift is the best procedure to have a great result. Regarding the tightening of the neck is normal since in neck lift we do platysmaplasty with suturing and that cause the first year a bit feeling tighten but it relapse a bit with time and with some physical movement and stretching. It would be great if we can see in pictures or feel it to see if there is other option could help. 
Best regards

Douglas M. Stevens, MD · Answer

Prior to releasing sutures I would certainly try physical therapy techniques on the neck including ultrasound, massage, stretching in addition to the injections.  If a failure of these conservative, non surgical techniques fail then the sutures can be released through very small incisions.   I

5 months post op deep plane facelift, platysma muscle is TOO tight. Suggestions?

Answers (7)

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Tight neck after deep plane facelift

Answer: Tight neck after deep plane facelift

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5 months post op deep plane facelift, platysma muscle is TOO tight. Suggestions?

Answers (7)

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Facelift

Answer: Tight neck after deep plane facelift

Answer: Tight neck after deep plane facelift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Deep Plane Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.