How is salivary gland suspension addressed when a face or neck lift is performed?

Question

Hello! I am researching to have a face and neck lift procedure. I want to know how a surgeon would address the fullness under the jawline, especially how they do salivary gland suspension. I am a bit scared of resection/removal, especially as a type 1 diabetic. Thanks for your advice!

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Salivary gland resection can be tricky and is not performed during all neck lift or facelift procedures. Some surgeons will secure it in a more superior position with sutures, others will actually resect part of the gland. There are some risks involved, including major bleeding episodes and collection of saliva under the skin. I would make sure that your surgeon is familiar with this if it is something you are interested in and also be sure it is something that you actually need addressed as it is difficult to tell given the pictures provided.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your concerns about salivary gland suspension for neck contouring, particularly in the context of managing type 1 diabetes and the associated risks of infection.

The techniques used for salivary gland suspension can involve securing the gland either to the mandibular ramus by accessing it internally. Another approach includes applying tension on the platysma muscles to help support the gland. However, based on my experience, removing the lower part of the gland is often more effective. The capsule of the gland is relatively firm, and I have found that external pressure over the gland with the platysma muscle does not provide a genuine suspension of the gland.

Regarding your concerns about type 1 diabetes and the risk of infection, in my experience, type 1 diabetes has not been a significant concern with submandibular gland reduction. Proper surgical techniques and post-operative care are essential to minimise the risk of infection, and these precautions are taken seriously in all procedures, particularly for patients with underlying health conditions like diabetes.

Michael S. Kluska, DO · Answer

In my experience, a deep plane neck lift with removal of the inferior tail of the submandibular gland gives the most consistent results and would be safe in a Type I Diabetic.

How is salivary gland suspension addressed when a face or neck lift is performed?

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