Is there any hope for repair? (Photo)

Question

Almost three three years ago I had a neck lift with liposuction. I developed severe platysmal banding following surgery. I received a series of treatment, including Botox, 5 FU, and steroids, with no improvement. Two years ago, my surgeon attempted to correct the problem with a surgical revision. I was left severe cosmetic deformities. I have been extremely depressed. Is there anything that can be done to improve this?

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

With liposuction and subsequent surgical revision, you have skeletonized your muscle which is now more apparent through the skin and may be adherent to the skin. You could try fat grafting but you may also end up with a fuller neck, which may or may not be satisfactory to you. The use of steroids could also increase tissue atrophy around the muscle. You have a chance with a surgical revision but it can't be a typical plastysmaplasty.  Tissue has to be elevated off the platysma and then a submuscle plane has to be elevated under the platysma along with muscle maneuvers for the vertical bands. It requires lateral pulls on the plastysma, which I typically do in the deep plane.  You require an involved procedure and not a typical face/neck lift with routine corset platysmaplasty. You can be improved with surgery.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Active platysma muscle and adhesions between skin and muscle are reason for this deformity. A combination of fine fat grafting (to create separation layer between muscle and skin) and Botox, should be some of the options. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Carlos Damian Palafox Vidal, MD · Answer

Hello. For patients with surgery related Sequelae (chronic), it is usually recommended a Full Reconstructive Surgical Procedure for the Neck, which may include: Platysmaplasty (Full Muscle Repair and repositioning), soft tissue repositioning and tightening. Incisions usually needed for such procedure may include: Submental, Bilateral Mandible Angle. I would recommend scheduling an appointment with a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with expertise in Face Lift, Neck Lift, Facial Reconstruction.

Is there any hope for repair? (Photo)

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Is there any hope for repair? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.