Muscle Relaxer for tight neck after Corset Platysmaplasty?

Question

Hi. I am three weeks post SMAS and Corset Platysmaplasty. My neck is .extremely tight and it is difficult for me to hold my head straight without becoming fatigued or my neck and shoulders hurting...backward head tilting is particularly difficult. I am having muscle spasms that are tensing the muscles beneath the chin and neck. Would it be helpful to take a muscle relaxer for a couple of days in hopes of breaking the cycle if one exists? Thanks so much!

George Volpe, MD · Answer

I find after performing a facelift that includes a corset platysmaplasty patients often complain of tightness initially in the neck region.  Usually we place a number of stitches under the skin which eventually dissolve. While the stitches are present they, along with the normal reactions of healing, contribute to this feeling.  I would consult with your surgeon prior to initiating muscle relaxers.

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Often patients will feel significant tightness after facelift and necklift surgery. This is particularly true for this type of platysmaplasty. Often, swelling can contribute to the tightness as well. This should get better. Best to see your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and let them know what is going on. They will make a plan with you.

Jeffrey J. Roth, M,D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey J. Roth, M,D., F.A.C.S.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Las Vegas Plastic Surgery

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

See your plastic surgeon so he/she can assess you and make recommendations, since  such debilitating tightness is unusual.I hope you feel better soon.

Michael Sundine, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sorry that you are having discomfort following your procedure.  Some of this tightness is probably related to swelling that naturally occurs following surgery.  Please follow up with your surgeon to make sure that there is nothing else going on.  If there is nothing else going on some gentle stretching and a muscle relaxant may have some value.

Muscle Relaxer for tight neck after Corset Platysmaplasty?

Answers (4)