The Laser-Assisted Neck Lift: Modifications in Technique and Postoperative Care to Improve Results

The Laser-Assisted Neck Lift: Modifications in Technique and Postoperative Care to Improve Results
June 2002
To cite this article: F. Richard Noodleman MD, David R. Harris MD (2002)
The Laser-Assisted Neck Lift: Modifications in Technique and Postoperative Care to Improve Results
Dermatologic Surgery 28 (6), 453Ò458.
doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2002.01296.x
Blackwell Synergy

F. Richard Noodleman, MD and David R. Harris, MD
Age Defying Dermatology, Campbell, California
Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Richard Noodleman, MD, Age Defying Dermatology, 3803 South Bascom Ave., Campbell, CA 95008.
F. R. NOODLEMAN, MD AND D. R. HARRIS, MD HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS.

Abstract
background.Conventional submental tumescent liposuction has proved disappointing for some patients with anterior neck laxity, ptotic platysma muscles, and increased subplatysmal fat. Many of these patients are facelift candidates but are unwilling to undergo this extensive procedure. We describe our hybrid approach, which offers consistently improved results and enhanced patient satisfaction.

objective.To establish a sharper cervicomental angle by more completely removing subplatysmal fat. We also wished to achieve more consistent, smoother results, minimizing ripples, folds, and hematomas with a novel postoperative dressing system.

methods.Extensive tumescent liposuction of the lower face, jowls, and anterior neck was performed. Following this, subplatysmal fat was removed by dissection, the platysma muscle was imbricated, and the CO2 laser utilized in a defocused, low-power mode to partially treat the dermal undersurface and underlying muscle. Our postoperative dressing included a 10 cm mineral oil polymer gel disc in the submental location, covered by tape, silicone foam, and a lower face and neck garment to provide both support and even compression over the entire neck for at least the first 24 hours.

results.Results proved uniformly satisfying for most patients, even those in their senior years. Benefits included an improved cervicomental angle, a decrease in jowling, and a marked reduction in the laxity and wrinkling of the neck skin and horizontal neck creases. Problems related to postoperative rippling or folding of the redraped skin and hematoma formation were minimized.

conclusion. Laser neck tightening combined with tumescent liposuction and an advanced postoperative dressing for superior support and uniform compression has resulted in consistently excellent outcomes with improved patient satisfaction.

This article is cited by:
Barry M. Zide. (2005) SEVEN MORE TIPS FOR THE OPERATING ROOM. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 115:3, 973
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Alan B. Brackup. (2003) Advances and controversies in face lift surgery. Current Opinion in Ophthalmology 14:5, 253
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(2002) Laser Literature Watch. Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery 20:6, 347
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