Neck lift gone wrong? What's happening? (Photo)

Question

I’m four months post neck lift and I’m struggling to understand what’s happening. I never had a double chin until after the procedure. 4 months out, shouldn’t still be swollen and have pain but I do . It looks like the middle of neck was stapled in with skin hanging all around it. I never had this much skin there before the procedure, I only had minimal sagging. wondering if anyone can explain what’s happening?

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

This is a cobra neck deformity. This usually occurs due to over-resection of the central components of the neck (midline inter-digastric and inter-platysmal deep fat) adjacent to inadequate treatment of adjacent platysmal bands and submandibular glands. I would recommend a revision deep plane neck lift to properly address the structures of the neck and get a smoother contour. I would wait at least 12 months if possible.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and sharing your photograph. The photo suggests that there has been volume reduction under and between the platysma muscles, but without reduction of the digastric muscles and of the submandibular glands. This is the most common reason for the type of shape that your neck is displaying. I would suggest discussing this with your surgeon as the additional volume reduction under the platysma can correct the problem. If you would like to have confirmation regarding the nature of the volume on each side of the midline, it is possible to use either ultrasound or sitting MRI scan to understand better the tissue composition under the skin.

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question here!My answer is based on the limited information and pictures provided , for a more detailed/bespoke plan , please consult with your plastic surgeon.
I am sorry you are having issues after your surgery. Swelling can take 6 months to a year to completely resolve but from the looks of the picture ( mind you, it is a limited view and doesn't have the best lighting) it seems to demonstrate an element of cobra neck deformity. This can happen from a number of reasons including but not limited to excessive deep fat removal in the middle of the neck, the edges of the platysma muscles were not brought together during the index procedure or they were but the sutures broke or cut through the muscle. Again this is based on a singular picture and limited information , I would recommend that you discuss it with your surgeon in person so he can examine you and give you a definitive diagnosis.
That being said there are some procedures that can be done to help mitigate the issue so don't despair. But your surgeon might ask you to wait a little longer as to have things settle a little more before venturing into another procedure.
I hope this helps, best of luck!

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