Failed Necklift? Is it possible for the platysma muscle to snap back to its post operative position right after a necklift?

Thank you very much for writing. Unfortunately, this is a common scenario. Though neck lifts seem straightforward, these are actually complex procedures. To achieve a natural-appearing and long-lasting result, the operation must include a complete release of the hanging tissue before the "pull". In situations where the loose neck muscle (platysma) is not released from its attachments, just tightening the skin gives the exact result you describe: early recurrence with wide or stretched scars behind the ears.  This is because all of the tension of the lift is placed on the relatively weak skin, rather than on the more sturdy muscle and connective tissue layers. If you opt for revision, in my opinion, you should make sure that your surgeon understands these key concepts.

Without before, and, after/current photos, it's difficult to access the additional options that may benefit you. I suggest  you begin by consulting with your plastic surgeon, or, seek a new one if you feel more comfortable.It's best to wait 6 to 12 months to undergo additional surgery of the area depending on the reason. As with all #cosmetic surgery, results will be rewarding if expectations are realistic. With any surgical #procedure and #revision, there are some risks of unhappy outcome or other complications which your surgeon should discuss with you during your consultation. Your procedure should always be performed by a board-certified plastic surgery with a great deal of experience in cosmetic #surgery. You will then greatly improve your chances of getting the result you desire, and, without the need for additional revision surgery.

Three months post neck lift you should not have skin laxity of neck. By then it should be well healed and looking good. According to your description without any pictures, the neck flap was not fully elevated and the skin was tighten under tension. 

   Chin and neck skin will loosen a few months after surgery.  A neck lift should produce significant improvement, but, if a great deal of skin laxity existed before surgery, the skin is of poorer quality and has a greater tendency to recur.

Thank you for your question. It is common to develop some laxity after a facelift or necklift. Though the skin is initially pulled tight, it does relax a bit after a couple of months. The amount of this rebound depends on a variety of factors, including the elasticity of the skin, the quality of the underlying platysma muscle, and the technique used in the necklift.

For now, it is important to give your neck more time to heal. If there is more laxity than you are happy with, there are often options for improvement. You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon, who has the benefit of an exam.

Best of luck with your neck.

Jeff Rockmore