Cervical lift: Surgical correction of fat contour problems combined with full-width platysma muscle flaps

Abstract

Correction of neck deformities due to fat, platysma muscle bands, or a combination of these deformities along with sagging of all neck tissue can be satisfactorily corrected by surgery. A knowledge of the anatomy of the face and neck is necessary in order to make an accurate diagnosis of the anatomical causes and to execute appropriate and safe surgical correction. A combination of thorough fat removal and full-width platysma muscle flaps converted into deep-layer sling support can eliminate the objectionable neck features, prevent recurring vertical muscle bands, produce pleasing neck contours along with a definition of the mandibular border, and avoid the problems which frequently occur when techniques which rely on skin tension or skin traction alone are used.