Can I Just Get the Platsymal/corset-tightening Neck Lift Done on Its Own, Without a Facelift?

Thank you for your question. Neck Rejuvenation is often used in conjunction with a Concept™ Facelift, in order to provide rejuvenation to the whole area. Neck Rejuvenation can include tightening the platysma muscle which can be an extra procedure which some patients may need to ensure a tight contour neck.  Tightening of the platysma muscle (also know as platysmaplasty) will require a small incision under the chin away from direct view to gain access to the front edge of the muscle on the neck; they are sutured together with permanent stitches.  The muscles of the neck are the foundations and building blocks of the neck are fundamental to achieving a tight and toned result. Alternatively, some patients may need neck liposuction, for those who have excess fat under the chin.  Overall, to obtain the best results a combination of neck rejuvenation procedure maybe needed.

Neck Rejuvenation is often used in conjunction with a Concept™ Facelift, in order to provide rejuvenation to the whole area. I perform my facelift and neck lift under local anaesthetic, meaning minimal bruising and swelling is experienced by patients.  This significantly reduces the recovery time experienced, therefore patients being able to return to their daily lives with public view within 5-7 days.  This is why it is important to have a comprohensive consultation with a reputable and qualified plastic surgeon who can assess you properly to give you a realistic idea of what outcome you can achieve. 

Best Wishes 

Thank you for your question. Yes, in some cases this is appropriate, but sometimes, this alone will not be adequate. You should see a local Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and be evaluated and see if the platysma bands alone are the culprit or if facial muscles are also a factor. After a consultation, you will be able to make a more informed decision. I hope this helps.

Platysmaplasty/necklift in isolation rarely works as well as necklift + facelift, but in a small subset of patients with adequate skin elasticity and minimal skin excess it can provide nice results.  An in-person evaluation would be the best way to determine the appropriateness of this procedure for you.  

       Pictures or an exam would help elucidate what is needed, but what you describe does not represent a possible scenario.  Find a plastic surgeon who performs hundreds of facial procedures and neck lifts each year.  Then look at the plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a sense of who can deliver the results.

Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

It is certainly possible that a more limited approach to improve your neck laxity may address your concerns.  Without photos and an exam it is difficult to determine the extent of surgery necessary.  Facial and neck rejuvenation is best tailored to each individual as you will have a unique combination of platysmal laxity, skin laxity and fatty fullness.  A second opinion regarding your needs may help clarify the matter.  Good luck!