What is a corset platysmaplasty? A corset platysmaplasty is a niche type of plastic surgery where the surgeon reshapes and manipulates a thin sheet of skin on the neck, known as the platysma. This area of the neck is vulnerable to the impacts of aging and tends to sag and produce other unpleasant effects over time.
For patients who qualify, this type of surgery has the potential to rejuvenate and revitalize this part of the face and body. If you think you might benefit from this type of surgery or from other cosmetic neck procedures, take a look at this guide, which describes some of the elements of this procedure.
What Is a Corset Platysmaplasty?
During a corset platysmaplasty, a physician manipulates the platysma to pull it tighter and tighter toward the rest of the neck and the face. This type of procedure is adept at helping patients with some of the following problems:
- Aging lines and vertical neck bands
- Loose, sagging neck skin
- Excessive jowls in the neck and surrounding area
- The presence of a double chin
A platysmaplasty can diminish the presence of these issues, as well as define the patient’s jawline. This leaves the patient looking naturally younger and less impacted by aging.
What Occurs During a Platysmaplasty?
During a platysmaplasty, your physician will make a small incision underneath your chin. Following this step, they remove the excess fat in the center of the neck utilizing special surgical instruments.
After this, the physician will reduce the excess of the loosened platysma and join the two sides of this muscle together, effectively suturing them together. This technique tightens the muscles in the neck and under the chin. The newly manipulated muscles also serve as a barrier of sorts, preventing the rest of the muscles in the neck from sagging.
The general steps of a platysmaplasty can be outlined as follows:
- The patient is placed under anesthesia
- Incisions are made under the chin
- The platysma muscles are tightened
- Excess skin is removed
- The tissue and skin of the neck are repositioned and secured
- The incisions are closed and bandaged
Risks of Platysmaplasty
A platysmaplasty is an invasive procedure that carries with it many of the same risks as other serious plastic surgery procedures. Although rare, there is a chance that you will experience any of the following risks:
- Blood clots
- Hematoma
- Excessive bleeding
- Skin loss
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Itching
In addition, because the procedure involves the use of general anesthesia, there may be additional risks that you take on due to the taxing impact of general anesthesia on the body. You’ll be able to discuss with your physician whether or not they think you are at particular risk for these types of issues.
After Your Procedure
The recovery period for a platysmaplasty typically takes about 5 to 10 days in terms of an individual being able to return to their daily life. However, you will still want to avoid engaging in any strenuous activity for several weeks after your procedure.
In addition, you may have to wait an additional couple of weeks to see the full spectrum of your results due to the inflammation and swelling that many patients experience at the surgical site following the procedure. This is considered normal, though you should contact your physician if this type of swelling persists for more than a couple of weeks.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Platysmaplasty?
Most healthy patients who are interested in receiving this type of work should find themselves ultimately qualified to receive treatment. However, the majority of people who seek out this type of treatment are between the ages of 40 and 60.
In addition, your physician will perform a general health exam on you prior to you receiving any kind of medical work. During this procedure, they will examine your general state of health and ensure that you don’t have any prohibitive health conditions.
A platysmaplasty is a flexible surgery that can be combined with other types of plastic surgery procedures, such as a neck lift. You can discuss with your doctor whether or not they think this would work well for your situation.
The Top Plastic Surgeon in Santa Barbara
Dr. Brent is a practicing double board-certified plastic surgeon working out of Santa Barbara. If you’re interested in discussing the specifics surrounding a corset platysmaplasty with someone who has the skills and expertise to assist you with your ideas surrounding this surgery, contact our office today to set up an appointment.
