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

J. Charles Finn, MD · Answer

Massage, exercise and time should help a lot. Absolutely discuss with your surgeon. but try to get active, and do neck stretching and exercise to loosen tight deep scar tissue. Warm compresses can help as well. Good luck!

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

I would have a honest and complete conversation with your plastic surgeon. I am certain he / she will be happy to help you understand the long term results associated with this surgery. I am also certain he /  she will be happy to do what is necessary to improve your quality of lift. Good luck Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS
Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetics Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member: RealSelf Hall of Fame

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

Answers (7)

More Deep Plane Facelift Questions

Why do some deep plane facelift patients have to keep the head wrapping on for 3 days versus 1 day for other patients?

Is it normal to have trouble opening mouth after deep plane facelift?

Pro and con for ligaments/deep plane facelift

Does the deep plane facelift help with face shape?

1 week from deep plane face lift and forehead lift and I am swelling like an monster. Advice?

4.5 weeks post deep plane FL, one side more swollen and not moving, and dry eyes. Very nervous, will it improve? (photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS