Characterization of the Cervical Retaining Ligaments During Subplatysmal Facelift Dissection and its Implications

Combining Deep Plane Face and Neck Lift with Periorbital Rejuvenation and Ancillary Surgical Procedures of the Face: A Critical Evaluation of Over 434 Consecutive Cases

BACKGROUND

Over time, all the face structures inevitably undergo the effects of chrono-aging with changes in their intrinsic characteristics, position and volume. Keeping in mind that all the possible aging defects may be concomitant, in the authors' vision, a careful preoperative evaluation of the patient's aging signs should take consideration of the face as a whole. This study reported the senior author's experience and complications on over 400 patients who consecutively underwent deep plane face and neck lifting combined with periorbital rejuvenation procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

434 consecutive patients who underwent deep plane face and neck lifting combined with periorbital rejuvenation procedures were enrolled in this study. Administration of a subjective/patient-specific and objective surgeon/specific questionnaire allowed to investigate satisfaction level at 12 and 18 months after surgery. Statistical analysis was conducted with Prism9. Surgical drawings, techniques and complications were described.

RESULTS

Data deriving from patients' and surgeons' questionnaires evidenced a high level of satisfaction with the combined surgery. The patients' satisfaction tended to increase, even if with a no statistically significant manner, from 12 to 18 months.

DISCUSSION

Authors outlined the importance of focus the attention also on the correction of the cranial part of the middle third soft tissues aging signs, often "neglected" during facelift, and on the periorbital area.

CONCLUSION

A satisfactory total and harmonious rejuvenation of the face and neck should include a combo surgery combining periorbital rejuvenation procedures with a more "traditional" extended deep plane face and neck lift depending on the aging signs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Anatomical Insights on the Cervical Nerve for Contemporary Face and Neck Lifting: A Cadaveric Study

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant roles it plays in the functions of the platysma and lower lip, the cervical branch of the facial nerve is often overlooked compared to other branches, but its consideration is critical for ensuring the safety of neck surgeries.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to clarify the anatomical discrepancies associated with the cervical branch of the facial nerve to enhance surgical safety.

METHODS

The study utilized 20 fresh-frozen hemiheads. A 2-stage surgical procedure was employed, beginning with an initial deep-plane facelift including extensive neck dissection, followed by a superficial parotidectomy on fresh-frozen cadavers. This approach allowed for a thorough exploration and mapping of the cervical nerve in relation to its surrounding anatomical structures.

RESULTS

Upon exiting the parotid gland, the cervical nerve consistently traveled beneath the investing layer of the deep cervical fascia for a brief distance, traversing the deep fascia to travel within the areolar connective tissue before terminating anteriorly in the platysma muscle. A single branch was observed in 2 cases, while 2 branches were noted in 18 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The cervical nerve's relatively deeper position below the mandible's angle facilitates a safer subplatysmal dissection via a lateral approach for the release of the cervical retaining ligaments. Due to the absence of a protective barrier, the nerve is more susceptible to injuries from direct trauma or thermal damage caused by electrocautery, especially during median approaches.

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Objective Diagnosis of Age-Related Soft Tissue Changes in Lower Face and Neck

BACKGROUND

An objective assessment of the causes of age-related contour deformities of the soft tissues of the face and neck is very important in esthetic surgery, especially as minimally invasive techniques gain increasing popularity.

METHODS

To visualize the tissues that cause age-related soft tissue changes, we performed cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in 37 patients who underwent facial and neck rejuvenation procedures in 2021-2022.

RESULTS

Vertical CBCT enabled visualization of the causes and degree of tissue involvement in age-related changes in the lower third of the face and neck. CBCT showed the location and condition of the platysma (hypo- [ptosis], normo-, or hyper-tonus), position, thickness, and location (above and/or below the platysma) of fat tissue, presence of ptosis of the submandibular salivary glands, condition of the anterior bellies of the digastric muscles, and the degree of their participation in contours of the cervicomandibular angle, and location of the hyoid bone. Moreover, CBCT enabled demonstrating for the patient the facial and neck contour deformations and discussing the suggested corrective methods using a clear objective visual image.

CONCLUSIONS

CBCT in the upright position enables objective assessment of each soft tissue in the age-related deformity of the cervicofacial region and provides an opportunity to plan the appropriate impact on the particular anatomical structures during rejuvenation procedures and estimate their results. This is the only study to date to objectively and clearly visualize the entire topographic anatomy of the soft tissues of the face and neck vertically for plastic surgeons and patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Defining the Cervical Line in Face-Lift Surgery: A Three-Dimensional Study of the Cervical and Marginal Mandibular Branches of the Facial Nerve

BACKGROUND

Continuous sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) dissection in the cheek with subplatysmal dissection in the neck is an important feature of many face-lift techniques, yet the neural anatomy in this area remains unclear, and recommendations regarding continuous dissection of these adjacent areas vary widely. The purpose of this study was to define the vulnerability of the facial nerve branches in this transitional area from the face-lift surgeon's perspective and to specifically identify the location of the cervical branch penetration through the deep cervical fascia.

METHODS

Ten fresh and five preserved cadaveric facial halves were dissected under 4× loupe magnification. The skin was reflected, followed by elevation of a SMAS-platysma flap, with identification of the location of cervical branch penetration through the deep cervical fascia. The cervical and marginal mandibular branches were then dissected retrograde through the deep cervical fascia to the cervicofacial trunk to confirm identifications.

RESULTS

Cervical and marginal mandibular branch anatomy was found to be similar to that of the other facial nerve branches, all of which initially course deep to the deep fascia in their postparotid course. The emergence of the terminal branch or branches of the cervical branch through the deep cervical fascia was consistently at or distal to a line from a point 5 cm below the mandibular angle on the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle to the point where the facial vessels course over the mandibular border (cervical line).

CONCLUSIONS

Continuous dissection of the SMAS in the cheek, with subplatysmal dissection in the neck crossing over the mandibular border, is possible without jeopardizing the marginal mandibular or cervical branches if done proximal to the cervical line. This study serves as the anatomical justification for continuous SMAS-platysma dissection, and has implications for all types of SMAS flap manipulations.

The Functional Anatomy and Innervation of the Platysma is Segmental: Implications for Lower Lip Dysfunction, Recurrent Platysmal Bands, and Surgical Rejuvenation

BACKGROUND

Despite the central role of the platysma in face and neck rejuvenation, much confusion exists regarding its surgical anatomy.

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to clarify the regional anatomy of the platysma and its innervation pattern and to explain clinical phenomena, such as the origin of platysmal bands and their recurrence, and the etiology of lower lip dysfunction after neck lift procedures.

METHODS

Fifty-five cadaver heads were studied (16 embalmed, 39 fresh, mean age 75 years). Following preliminary dissections and macro-sectioning, a series of standardized layered dissections were performed, complemented by histology and sheet plastination.

RESULTS

In addition to its origin and insertion, the platysma is attached to the skin and deep fascia across its entire superficial and deep surfaces. This composite system explains the age-related formation of static platysmal bands, recurrent platysmal bands after complete platysma transection, and recurrent anterior neck laxity after no-release lifting. The facial part of the platysma is primarily innervated by the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve, whereas the submandibular platysma is innervated by the "first" cervical branches, which terminate at the mandibular origin of the depressor labii inferioris. This pattern has implications for postoperative dysfunction of the lower lip, including pseudoparalysis, and potential targeted surgical denervation.

CONCLUSIONS

This anatomical study, comprised of layered dissections, large histology, and sheet plastination, fully describes the anatomy of the platysma including its bony, fascial, and dermal attachments, as well as its segmental innervation including its nerve danger zones. It provides a sound anatomical basis for the further development of surgical techniques to rejuvenate the neck with prevention of recurrent platysmal banding.

Aesthetic Units and Zones of Adherence: Relevance to Surgical Planning in the Head and Neck

Background

Aesthetic units (AUs) and zones of adherence (ZA) have been previously described in the face; however, a systematic classification of AUs and ZAs together with a unified approach to planning surgery has not been previously described for head and neck surgery. The five principles of surgical planning necessitate respect for AUs, ZAs, and flexion creases; correct scar orientation; and replacing tissue "like for like" by adhering to the four "Ts" of reconstruction (tone, texture, type, and thickness of skin and subcutaneous tissue).

Methods

Images of male and female patients and stock images (from iStock) were reviewed and analyzed.

Results

AUs and ZAs were described and tabulated.

Conclusions

Surgical planning necessitates respect for AUs and ZAs and avoidance of maneuvers that will transgress aesthetic unit interfaces or eliminate AUs. An aesthetic atlas of AUs and ZAs is useful for planning surgery, preventing errors, and optimizing aesthetic results.

Comparing Lateral Rhytidectomy With and Without Neck Suture Suspension

Background: Characteristic aesthetic changes of the aging neck include skin laxity and rhytid formation, submental fat deposition, plastysmal banding, and ptosis of underlying structures that lead to the development of an obtuse cervicomental angle (CMA). Cervical rejuvenation techniques that aim to restore the CMA are widely discussed in the literature, and share variable outcomes. The aim of this study is to compare the restoration of the CMA in patients undergoing the addition of midline platysmal plication using a modified Giampapa stitch with absorbable PDS suture, to those patients undergoing standard deep plane lateral rhytidectomy alone. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed by a single surgeon in a private facial plastics practice. 264 patients undergoing rhytidectomy were included in the study. Pre and postoperative measurement differences in CMA degree and depth were compared in patients undergoing only traditional deep plane lateral rhytidectomy (TDPLR) in isolation, with those who also had modified suture suspension and platysma plication (MSSPP). The primary outcome in the study was the change in the degree of the CMA taken from standardized preoperative and postoperative surgical photos in the Frankfort profile view. Secondary outcomes include the change in the depth of the CMA as determined by the hyomental distance between study and control groups. Results: A total of 264 patients were identified who met the study criteria. A total of 134 (123 female; 11 male; average age, 62.66 ± 8.19) underwent TDPLR with MSSPP, and 130 (127 female; 3 male; average age, 63.09 ± 7.75) underwent TDPLR alone. All patients in the study underwent preoperative photographic evaluation in Frankfurt profile view and the same postoperative photographic evaluation at an average of 436.56 days (14.4 months) after surgery. Patients in the cohort study group were found to have a statistically significant increase in the depth of the CMA by an average of 13.9 degrees ± 6.26 and increase in the hyomental distance of 1.38 cm ± 0.87, compared to the control group who underwent traditional lateral rhytidectomy with an average CMA change of 6.87 degrees ± 6.7 (P = .00146) and hyomental distance increase of 0.75 ± 0.68 (P = .00031), respectively. Statistical significance was taken at P < .05. Conclusions: The results from this study indicate that the addition of a relatively minimally invasive approach to neck rejuvenation using a modified Giampapa stitch with absorbable PDS suture is helpful in restoring the CMA in an aging neck.

Anatomical Proposal for Botulinum Neurotoxin Injection Targeting the Platysma Muscle for Treating Platysmal Band and Jawline Lifting: A Review

The platysma muscle is a thin superficial muscle that covers the entire neck and lower part of the face. The platysma muscle is the primary target muscle for botulinum neurotoxin injection therapy aimed at treating platysmal band and lower facial lifting. In the procedure of botulinum neurotoxin injection therapy, a lack of knowledge of the anatomy of the platysma muscle and the properties of botulinum neurotoxin can lead to side effects such as dysphagia, dysphonia, and weakness of the neck muscles. Anatomically safe injection sites have been proposed for the platysma muscle, and the appropriate injection technique has been reviewed. We proposed optimal injection sites based on the external anatomical features of the mandible. The aim of these proposal was to standardize the procedure for the effective use of botulinum neurotoxin injections by minimizing the dose unit and injection points and thereby preventing adverse events.

Essential Surgical Anatomy for Facelift

It is crucial for a facelift surgeon to have a comprehensive understanding of ageing-related changes on the volume, elasticity, and relative position of various facial tissues and layers. These changes lead to an alteration in the surface topography, contour, and ultimately shape of the face. The depressions and sagging of tissues created as a result of ageing then has a bearing on one's perceived age. This article describes the various layers of the face and neck affected by ageing. The fat compartments, superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), potential facial spaces, facial ligaments, and facial nerve are discussed in detail. Safe and effective execution of facelift requires a thorough understanding of the intricate relationship between the various layers of face and neck, in particular the path of facial nerve, as it negotiates between these layers. The emphasis of this article is on integrating this knowledge to generate practical tips for safe dissection, effective tissue movement, and repositioning during various type of facelift procedures.

Modified Composite Plane Facelift with Extended Neck Dissection

The attenuation of retaining ligaments with aging leads to downward displacement of facial fat compartments and is responsible for many of the stigmata that occur with aging. The zygomatic cutaneous and masseteric cutaneous ligaments prevent the transmission of adequate traction to the malar portion of the dissection during traditional low superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) facelift techniques which involve plication or imbrication of the exposed surface of the SMAS because they do not include surgical release of these ligaments. Inadequate release of these ligaments, especially the zygomatic cutaneous ligament may lead to an unbalanced, unnatural appearance with unopposed nasolabial folds. In contrast, extended facelift techniques (extended SMAS, high SMAS, deep plane facelift, and composite plane facelift) involving the release of these ligaments and can reposition the ptotic malar fat and diminish the nasolabial folds. Additionally, the composite and modified composite plane facelifts include orbicularis oculi muscle elevation and can achieve a more harmonious rejuvenation. However, due to facial nerve injury risk, many facelift surgeons either inadequately release these ligamentous attachments or prefer less-invasive techniques. Modified composite plane facelift allows safe release of the zygomatic cutaneous ligament, and safe entry into the right plane leaving all malar fat pad attached to the skin. Modified composite plane facelift technique also produces combined, balanced, and harmonious rejuvenation of the midface, cheek, lower face, and neck without requiring a separate midface lift procedure or a transblepharoplasty approach. Extending the sub-SMAS/subplatysmal dissection inferior to the angle of mandible, releasing of the cervical retaining ligaments, and adding a horizontal platysma myotomy below the angle of the mandible significantly improve the cervical contouring and enhances the jawline rejuvenation. This study explains modified composite-flap facelift with extended neck dissection in a step-by-step manner and highlights anatomical details to perform a safe, effective, and successful extended face and neck lift surgery.

Total Neck Rejuvenation, Harnessing the Platysma in the Lower Neck and Décolletage

BACKGROUND

Efforts to rejuvenate the lower neck and décolletage have not been adequately addressed by neck lift techniques which predominantly focus on improving the cervicomental angle and correcting fullness in the submental and submandibular region. Disappointment with a lack of initial result in the lower neck and early relapse of laxity led the author (DJH) to adopt the Fogli/Labbé vertical neck lift with a fixation of the platysma muscles to Loré's fascia Fogli (Aesthet Plast Surg 32:531-541, 2008), Labbé et al. (Plast Reconstr Surg 117:2001-2007, 2006). Over the past 8 years, since the original "modified" Fogli description was published by Hodgkinson (Aesthet Plast Surg 36:28-40, 2012), the technique has evolved with a specific aim to improve the initial results of the neck lift in the lower half of the neck and have the result maintained in follow-up.

METHODS

The clinical photographs of female patients who underwent face and neck rejuvenation utilising a modified Fogli vertical platysma advancement technique were evaluated as to the improvement of the rejuvenation in the lower neck and décolletage and compared with the photographs obtained by the original pexy technique. The review was restricted to patients operated on in the prior extant three-year period and compared with the results of patients having surgery in that preceding five years prior to the review period.

RESULTS

The results of the recent technical modifications of the vertical lift by the platysma flap advancement were superior to the previous pexy technique and attributable to the advent of the surgical auricular-platysmal flap advancement. This flap, which in continuity with the distal platysma was affixed with permanent sutures to Loré's fascia after definitive release of the cervical retaining ligaments of the platysma.

CONCLUSION

The modifications of the vertical platysma fixation to Loré's fascia after mobilisation of the distal platysma by detachment of the cervical retaining ligaments utilising an advancement of the platysma led to improvement in the rejuvenation of the lower neck and décolletage when compared to the pexy technique of the original Fogli/Labbé description.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Defining a Safe Corridor of Cervical Branch Preservation in Lateral Platysmaplasty Surgery During Facial Rejuvenation Surgery

BACKGROUND

During rhytidectomies, the cervical branch of the facial nerve (CBFN) can easily be encountered, and potentially injured, when releasing the cervical retaining ligaments in the lateral neck. This nerve has been shown to occasionally co-innervate the depressor anguli oris muscle, and damage to it can thus potentially compromise outcomes with a postoperative palsy.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to examine the lateral cervical anatomy specific to the CBFN to ascertain if the position of the nerve can be predicted, thereby enhancing safety of the platysmal flap separation and dissection from this lateral zone of adhesion.

METHODS

Eleven cadaveric hemifaces were dissected, and the distance between the medial border of sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) and the CBFN was measured at 3 key points: (1) superior: the distance between the SCM and the nerve at the level of the angle of the mandible in neutral; (2) narrowest: the narrowest distance measurable between the superior and inferior points as the CBFN descends into the neck medial to the SCM; and (3) inferior: the distance at the most distal part of the cervical nerve identified before its final intramuscular course.

RESULTS

The average distances (in mms) were as follows: superior = 12.1 (range, 10.1-15.4), narrowest = 8.8 (range, 5.6-12.2), and inferior = 10.9 (range, 7.9-16.7).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a narrow range between the nerve and the anterior border of SCM. We thus propose a safe corridor where lateral deep-plane dissection can be performed to offer cervical retaining ligament release, with reduced risk of endangering the CBFN.

Asian Face Lift with the Composite Face Lift Technique

BACKGROUND

The composite face lift is becoming increasingly popular following recent advances in understanding of facial anatomy that enable safe sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) dissection. This article presents the authors' technique for composite face lift in Asian patients and reviews their experience and outcome with this procedure.

METHODS

Composite face lifts were performed on 128 Asian patients between January of 2010 and June of 2020. Ninety-four were primary face lifts, and 34 were secondary or tertiary face lifts. The authors' surgical technique and adaptations for the specific requirements of Asian patients are described in detail. The mean follow-up was 26 months (range, 6 to 108 months). Fat grafting was an integral part of our procedure, with 95 percent having concomitant facial fat grafting with their face lift.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up in accordance with a standardized schedule. The majority of patients reported high satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome of the technique, with natural, long-lasting results. The face lift plane of dissection is through the facial soft-tissue spaces, which provide atraumatic sub-SMAS access with precise release of the intervening retaining ligaments for effective flap mobilization. By emphasizing tension on the composite flap with no tension on the skin closure, the scars were discrete in the great majority of patients. Complications were few, with no hematomas or skin flap necrosis. The temporary nerve injury rate was 1.5 percent, with no patient having a permanent nerve injury.

CONCLUSION

The composite face lift is an ideal technique for Asian patients, as it delivers natural, long-lasting results; a quick recovery; and high patient satisfaction.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

The minimal access cranial suspension (MACS) lift: A systematic review of literature 18 years after its introduction

BACKGROUND

One of the most popular short-scar rhytidectomy techniques used nowadays is the minimal access cranial suspension (MACS) lift developed by Tonnard and Vaerpele. The technique uses purse-string sutures in combination with limited skin undermining to obtain a clear vertical tissue repositioning. Since its introduction, the technique has extensively been described and used around the world by facial plastic surgeons. Now, 18 years after its introduction, a systematic review concerning the results and complications of the MACS lift is presented to establish its current position in facial rejuvenation.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar databases were searched for studies evaluating the MACS lift (June 10, 2020). Outcomes of interest were long-term effect, satisfaction, and complications of the MACS lifting as determined by the patient and/or surgeon.

RESULTS

Six studies were included, with 739 patients treated with the MACS lift in total. No major complications were reported, four studies did report on the occurrence of minor complications. All of the six studies reported relatively high levels of satisfaction. Three studies reported a shorter procedural duration for the MACS lift compared with the conventional facelift. In three of the six included studies, the level of evidence was low. The effect on neck rejuvenation is limited.

CONCLUSION

The MACS lift can be considered a minimally invasive facelift procedure with a relatively low complication rate. The procedure, often combined with additional procedures, results in evident patient and/or surgeon satisfaction. To obtain a better desired result on an aged neck area, additional procedures are warranted.

A Novel Volumizing Extended Deep-Plane Facelift: Using Composite Flap Shifts to Volumize the Midface and Jawline

Traditional superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) facelifting surgery uses a laminar surgical dissection. This approach does not treat areas of facial volume loss, and requires additional volume supplementation with fat grafting or fillers. The novel volumizing extended deep-plane facelift uses a composite approach to the facelift flap. By incorporating a platysma myotomy in the extended deep-plane flap, a novel composite transposition flap can be created that revolumizes the posterior jawline, recreating a defined convex jawline of youth. Special attention is paid to the deep anatomy of the face, and the need for release of the facial ligaments.

Deep Layer Radiofrequency Thermo-coagulative Technology for Cervicofacial Contouring: Sonographic and Clinical Results

Radiofrequency energy thermally induces collagen contraction and remodeling. The resultant dermal tightening is well established. However, facial aging encompasses also deeper layers of collagen-containing tissues. We present a deep layer radiofrequency-based thermo-coagulative technique for cervicofacial contouring and evaluate its efficacy.

METHODS

This prospective single center study was conducted from June 2017 to June 2018 and included 10 women. Echogenicity and thickness of layers 1-5 of the lower face, lateral neck, and submental regions were sonographically measured at baseline and at 6 weeks postoperatively. Echogenicity analysis was based on the number of high echogenic pixels counted and processed using Matlab-based image application (The Mathworks, Natick, Mass.). Clinical outcome at 12 months postoperatively was evaluated by 2 independent evaluators using a validated 5-point lower face improvement scale and the Merz jawline scale (0-4). Patient satisfaction and adverse effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean age was 60.2 years (range, 52-76). A statistically significant increase in echogenicity (P ≤ 0.02) and a decrease in thickness (P = 0.01) was noted. Echogenicity increased at 149%, 78%, and 60%, for the lateral neck, lower face, and submental region, respectively. The corresponding decrease in thickness per site was 16%, 6%, and 19%. The average physicians' improvement in lower face contour was 3.8, and the Merz jawline scale was improved from 2.85 at baseline to 1.05 at 12 months postoperatively. Patient satisfaction was high. Side effects were minimal.

CONCLUSIONS

Deep layer radiofrequency-based technology thermally induces profound soft tissue tightening and neocollagenesis. It is a safe and effective technique for cervicofacial contouring in selected patients.

Different Faces: Different Facelift Techniques

The introduction and evolution of different rhytidectomy techniques has spawned an exciting era of facial rejuvenation in modern times. To provide patients with the best customized approach to surgery the facial aesthetic surgeon must have familiarity and understanding of the fundamental differences between these techniques. Here we set forth to provide some historical and anatomical perspective, followed by reviewing and comparing some of the key aspects of the most commonly utilized facelift techniques.

Another Look at Platysmaplasty in Facelifting

Over the history of facial rejuvenation surgery there has been a progressive assimilation of knowledge about the anatomy of neck structures that are central to the manifestations of the aging neck. These advances in knowledge have been accompanied by the innovation and introduction of several surgical techniques to restore the neck to a more youthful appearance. The rejuvenation of the aging neck frequently incorporates a consideration and execution of accepted methods to restore the platysma muscles to a more aesthetic form. Lasting and dependable surgical techniques remain somewhat elusive and late failures in the neck continue to be a frustration for both patients and surgeons.

In this manuscript, the author reviews some of the more enduring and innovative methods to manage the platysma in facelifting and cites the rationale and limitations of the various techniques. The concept of the restoration of an effective platysma “sling” in the upper neck to eliminate platysma bands and recreate a defined jawline is highlighted. A framework of patient evaluation and decision making is presented, and a suggested individualized application of accepted surgical maneuvers is suggested.

Optimal Facelift Vector and its Relation to Zygomaticus Major Orientation

BACKGROUND

The vector of superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) redraping in rhytidectomy is often described in relation to the zygomaticus major muscle (ZMM), so that suspension prevents distortion of the mimetic musculature and a "facelifted appearance." There are no data describing the true orientation of this muscle in the midface.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to define the vector of the ZMM relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane.

METHODS

One hundred patients underwent deep plane rhytidectomy. As part of this procedure the tissues overlying the ZMM are elevated, allowing muscle orientation to be measured as an angle relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane.

RESULTS

Data for 200 hemifaces were aggregated. The average ZMM angle was 59° (standard deviation, 6°; range, 41-72°) relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane, and showed a statistically significant pattern of change with advancing age, becoming more acute with increasing age below the age of 60 years and more obtuse with age over 60 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The native vector of the ZMM varies significantly between rhytidectomy patients as demonstrated by the high variance in this cohort. Assumptions about its orientation should not be made in rhytidectomy techniques that do not identify its course. Standard vectors of SMAS redraping, such as superior-lateral, vertically oblique, and purely vertical, should be reconsidered and a customized vector implemented in each case. Aging affects the orientation of the muscle, which can potentially be explained by soft tissue and bony changes at its attachments. This furthers the variability of the SMAS vector in each individual case.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

A Novel Extended Deep Plane Facelift Technique for Jawline Rejuvenation and Volumization

BACKGROUND

Jawline aging is a complex process. We believe loss of posterior jawline definition and volume depletion is an underappreciated factor in the aging face.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to describe a novel composite, rotational flap modification of an extended deep-plane rhytidectomy. We evaluated long-term efficacy on improving jawline contour and volumization of the posterior mandibular region overlying the gonial angle.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study on patients who underwent our modification of extended deep-plane rhytidectomy. We define and introduce the mandibular defining line, a new anatomic metric in evaluating the mandibular contour. We define the area of the posterior lower face overlying the gonion and mandibular angle as the gonial area. Using 3-dimensional photography, we quantify contour changes along the mandibular border and volume change along the gonial area.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients (178 hemifaces) were analyzed. The mean gonial area volume gained was 3.5 cc. Average follow-up was 19 months. There was a statistically significant change in the mean mandibular defining line from 7.1 cm preoperatively to 9.8 cm postoperatively. This represents a lengthening of the visual perspective of the mandibular contour of 2.7 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

Composite, rotational flap modification of extended deep-plane rhytidectomy provides significant long-term augmentation of volume to the posterior mandibular region and lengthens the visual perspective of the inferior mandibular contour, creating a more youthful jawline. In selected cases, this may obviate the need for other volumization procedures used to improve jawline contour, such as autologous fat grafting.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Cervical Branch of Facial Nerve: An Explanation for Recurrent Platysma Bands Following Necklift and Platysmaplasty

Background

Recurrent platysma bands remain a common problem in neck rejuvenation.

Objectives

The goals of this cadaver study were to document the course of the cervical branches of the facial nerve and investigate the pattern of platysma muscle innervation before and after various platysmaplasty maneuvers.

Methods

A total of 8 fresh cadaver specimens were dissected for a total of 16 hemifaces/necks. After subcutaneous undermining and identification of the main trunk of the facial nerve, the cervical branch was dissected as distally/anteriorly as possible under loupe magnification. The following 4 platysmaplasty maneuvers were each performed on 4 hemifaces/necks: platysma window, extended SMAS with platysma flap, full width platysma transection, and lateral skin-platysma displacement (LSD). Upon completion of the techniques, the integrity of the cervical branches was evaluated.

Results

Contrary to some reports, all specimens in this study had only 1 main cervical branch. There were no branches detectable under 3.2× magnification until branches were given off to the platysma muscle at approximately the location of the facial vessels. The main cervical branch continued distally/anteriorly to the medial edge of the muscle below the thyroid cartilage. After performing the various platysma techniques, all cervical branches were in continuity in all specimens. Specifically, the main cervical branch was in continuity to the medial border of the muscle caudal to all platysmaplasty maneuvers.

Conclusions

Undermining the platysma muscle results in no injury to platysmal innervation unless continued beyond the facial vessels. Recurrent bands are likely related to persistent innervation of the medial platysma, which remains intact cranial and caudal to any described platysmal transection maneuvers.

The Fate of Fogli's Lore's Fascial Platysma Fixation Optimalising the Results of Fogli's Neck Lift Procedure

The author has modified previously described techniques of the superior suspension of the platysma muscle to Lore's fascia by developing an auriculoplastysmal fascial flap, which detaches the posterior platysma from its retaining ligaments to the sternomastoid muscle. Anterior to this flap, the platysma muscle is undermined and suture captured with three throws of a permanent 2.0 Tevdek suture. This suture and its three throws are fixed anterior to the tragus, which includes Lore's fascia and on tightening elevates the whole of the anterior neck as well as defines the cervicomental angle. A separate submental dissection may be required to assess and deal with pathology and resect excessive laxity of the platysma which has not been adequately addressed by the lateral superior traction suturing technique. Follow-up of fifteen cases of secondary facelift surgery with recurrent neck laxity demonstrated the fate of the suturing to Lore's fascia. The permanent knot at the pre-tragal fixation point descended approximately 3 cm from the original position at the pre-tragal region. Secondary surgery is facilitated by capture of the knot and re-suturing it to its original primary position, restoring the neck to the approximate pre-operative condition and avoiding excessive dissection including return to the submental incision.Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Deoxycholate (ATX-101) Mixed with Lidocaine to Minimize Pain/Discomfort in Nonsurgical Treatment of Submental Fullness Appearance

In the present study pain/discomfort reduction in submental fullness treatment with the injections of a DC based drug (ATX-101, Allergan, Dublin, Ireland) premixed with lidocaine 2% on a sample of 12 patients retrospectively evaluated has been performed All patients indicated improvement in skin tightening from the 2nd month postinjection. Three patients had minor ecchymoses at the injection sites, which resolved spontaneously within 10 days posttreatment. One patient experienced dysesthesia of the treated area, which lasted approximately 40 days and resolved spontaneously. No other complications—such as nerve paresis or alopecia—were recorded. No patient required analgesic drugs postinjection.