Platysmaplasty and long-term shortness of breath

Question

Hello, I had a platysmaplasty around 2 years ago and I have been having issues with shortness of breath and unusual heartbeats since then. I had check ups with a pulmologist and a cardiologist and both say everything seems fine, however I still feel this permanent shortness of breath and fatigue even when sitting down or laying in bed. Could the platysmaplasty that I had be the cause of this? and if so how? Thank you for your time.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The shortness of breath you describe isn’t a known long-term side effect of a platysmaplasty procedure. Though the underlying neck muscles (platysmal bands) are tightened during this surgical approach, any residual tightness following the procedure should be minimal and brief. 
I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon, as well as a physician who can run tests they may deem necessary. Together, they can assess your discomfort while taking your medical history into account and develop the best approach that may help you.

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

A platysmaplasty surgery can create temporary tightness in the front of your neck in the initial days to weeks after surgery. In some patients, this can feel like difficulty with breathing or difficulty swallowing. In your case, it should not cause any long-term shortness of breath 2 years after surgery. You may wish to consider making an appointment with your doctor to identify a reason for your shortness of breath.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is very difficult to connect platysmoplasty and airway obstruction? Platysmoplasty is performed on the most superficial layer of muscles of the neck and in no way that could compromise your breathing. Whether some additional maneuvers were done, only your surgeon will have the answer. Good luck.

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! Sorry that you're experiencing trouble. Have you made an appointment with your surgeon to discuss the symptoms? During platysmaplasty, the muscle is pulled together quite tightly to ensure a nice look, especially on profile. We expect that tightness to lessen - certainly, by 2 years as is your case. It's possible there could be underlying scarring causing the problem. It would be worthwhile to revisit with your surgeon. A possible CT scan of the neck may provide more insight and help think "outside-the-box". Hope you find this helpful and wish you the best.

Platysmaplasty and long-term shortness of breath

Answers (4)

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