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Anterior Approach to the Neck: Long-Term Follow-Up
Andrew L Kochuba MD, Christopher C Surek DO, Carlos Ordenana MD, Isis Scomacao MD, Eliana Duraes MD, and James E Zins MD FACS
Cleveland Clinic
2020-01-30
Presenter: Andrew Kochuba
Affidavit:
I agree
Director Name: Dr. James Zins
Author Category: Fellow Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Aesthetics
BACKGROUND: The anterior or submental necklift has been well described. Long-term results have been demonstrated in patients with minimal, mild, and moderate skin excess. It relies upon the skin's unique ability to contract once separated from its attachments. It offers benefits beyond liposuction alone. However, the effectiveness of the anterior necklift is still questioned.
OBJECTIVES: To assess the long-term success of the anterior necklift for neck rejuvenation and determine its utility in patients with severe cervicomental angles.
METHODS: Single surgeon, retrospective review of patients undergoing just an anterior necklift between 1998-2017. Pre and post-procedure photographs were scrambled and examined by independent evaluators grading the change in cervicomental angle based on the Knize scale. The reduction in apparent age was calculated using the validated apparent age assessment scale.
RESULTS: 27 patients were evaluated (42% mild and 58% moderate to severe necks pre-operatively). Average follow-up was 24.7 months. There was an average 3.6 year age reduction and 1.0 grade improvement in all patients. In moderate to severe necks, there was 3.9 year age reduction and 1.4 grade improvement in the cervicomental angle following surgery.
CONCLUSIONS: Anterior necklift through submental approach utilizes skin undermining, release of retaining ligaments, fat contouring, and platysmal muscle tightening to achieve desired contours. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the operation in improving the cervicomental angle and reducing the overall apparent age of patients, even more so in severe cases. The operation is an option for patients who desire neck improvement but are unwilling to undergo a facelift.
