Rediscovering a Youthful Neckline: The Role of Platysmaplasty
The neck is undeniably one of the key areas that defines our facial profile and contributes significantly to a youthful appearance. As we age, or sometimes due to genetics or weight fluctuations even in younger individuals, the neck can lose its sharp, defined angle. This can manifest as vertical bands, sagging skin, or the commonly known "turkey neck" deformity.
My name is Dr. Cem Berkay SINACI (Dr. CBS), a double board-certified (European and Turkish) plastic surgeon based in Istanbul. My clinic is certified as an international health tourism center, welcoming patients from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and worldwide. While I perform a range of aesthetic procedures, facial rejuvenation, particularly addressing the neck area, is a significant part of my practice.
One powerful technique I frequently utilize, often in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures, is platysmaplasty. In fact, about half of my face and neck lift surgeries incorporate this specific maneuver to achieve optimal results.
Read my blog: The Secret to a Youthful Face: Why Your Neck Holds the Key
What is Platysmaplasty? Understanding the Neck's Foundation
The platysma is a broad, thin sheet of muscle located just beneath the skin in the neck, extending from the upper chest to the lower face and jawline. With time or genetic predisposition, this muscle can weaken, separate in the midline, or sag, leading to visible vertical bands and loss of the sharp angle between the chin and neck (the cervicomental angle).
Platysmaplasty is a surgical procedure specifically designed to address these changes in the platysma muscle. It involves tightening and repositioning this muscle layer to recreate a smoother, more defined, and youthful neck contour.
Read our information page about neck lift !
Who is a Good Candidate for Platysmaplasty?
While platysmaplasty is often part of a comprehensive face and neck lift for patients seeking overall rejuvenation, it can be particularly beneficial for:
Individuals with "Turkey Neck" Deformity: This is the prime indication, where the central neck skin and muscle hang loosely.
Patients with Visible Platysmal Bands: Those prominent vertical cords running down the neck.
Younger Patients with an Obtuse Neck Angle: Individuals who, perhaps due to genetics or early aging signs, have lost the desirable sharp angle under the chin (an obtuse or undefined cervicomental angle) but may not require a full facelift.
Patients Seeking Enhanced Jawline Definition: Tightening the platysma provides foundational support that contributes to a stronger, more defined jawline appearance.
The Platysmaplasty Procedure: Tailored Approaches
My approach to platysmaplasty is always tailored to the individual's anatomy and goals:
Combined Approach (Platysmaplasty with Lateral Neck Lift): This is my most common technique. By combining central platysma muscle tightening (platysmaplasty) via a small incision under the chin, with a lateral neck lift (incisions typically hidden behind the ears), we achieve a comprehensive and robust rejuvenation. This combination provides powerful lifting and tightening across the entire neck and jawline, creating strong, lasting definition.
Isolated Platysmaplasty: For a select group of patients, primarily younger individuals whose main concern is central neck looseness or banding without significant skin excess or jowling, an isolated platysmaplasty may be sufficient. This involves accessing and tightening the platysma muscle solely through a discreet incision (usually around 3 cm) hidden in the natural crease beneath the chin.
Scarring Considerations:
Patients naturally inquire about scars. With the combined approach, the lateral lift incisions are strategically placed behind the ears, making them very inconspicuous once healed. The small submental (under the chin) incision required for the platysmaplasty itself heals remarkably well and is typically not noticeable in a natural head position.
Read my blog: Hidden Scar Full Face Rejuvenation: The Modern Approach
The Power of the Angle: Why Platysmaplasty Matters
Achieving an acute, well-defined cervicomental angle is fundamental to restoring a youthful neck profile. Platysmaplasty is a cornerstone maneuver for achieving this. It directly addresses the underlying muscular structure, providing the necessary support and contour. When performed skillfully, often alongside a lateral neck lift, it acts as a powerful tool not just for the neck itself, but for creating that coveted strong, elegant jawline.
Choosing Your Surgeon in Istanbul
As an internationally trained surgeon with fellowship experience under world-renowned facial surgeons like Dr. Raul Gonzalez, and continuous education through international congresses and courses, I bring a deep understanding of complex facial anatomy to every procedure. My status as an ISAPS and European Board member and my clinic's certification reflect a commitment to the highest standards of safety and care for my international patients. My philosophy is centred on achieving natural, refined results through meticulous technique, not aggressive marketing.
Read my blog: Why Choose Istanbul for Your Plastic Surgery Journey?
If you are considering neck rejuvenation and wondering if platysmaplasty, alone or as part of a neck lift, is right for you, I invite you to learn more. Understanding the options is the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals.
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