Platysmal bands

Platysmaplasty along with a Neck-lift usually addresses the Platisma muscles on the area right under the chin and not all the way down your neck. It is actually expected to still have bands on the neck propper when these segments of platysma are tightened.

A platysmaplasty and neck lift usually tightens the muscles and skin for a better appearance. It does not paralyze the muscle. Even when the muscle is partially transected, the platysma can still contract. I recommend you enjoy your results. Contracting your neck muscles is not a frequent facial animation during normal communication. I hope this information is helpful.

What you are describing is a normal action of the neck platysma muscle. If this is not what you were expecting some surgeons will remove the bands and part of the muscle. If you show no thickening or ridge at rest this is normal

LoLo Langdon,

Sounds like a simple matter of communication & expectation. As others have said the procedure of Platysmaplasty is typically not for animation or movement of the platysma. If what you are experiencing is of great concern there is a simple solution. It is injection of Botox into the platysma to stop the banding with animation of your face. Consider an ASPS member in your are familar with this procedure.

Best,

Gary R Culbertson, MD

Cutting the platysma band at multiple level of the neck may address your concern. It can be done in addition to the neck lift but it may leave some contour abnormalities of the neck. If you only have the band with grimacing, I would suggest Botox to weaken the muscle instead.

The surgery is just fine. The bands could probably be helped with Botox injections and this lasts only a few months. Discuss this with your surgeon.