Abstract
The aged neck is the most common motivator for patients seeking facial rejuvenation.
Unlike the deflated midface, surgical treatment is still the gold standard for optimal
outcomes. It is our view that the majority etiology of both the aged neck and deflated
midface is gravity's effects on the superficial soft tissue envelope, leading to soft
tissue redundancy. It is also our view that the deep-plane rhytidectomy is supported
by anatomy, embryology, and clinical evidence as the best methodology to treat soft
tissue redundancy without producing the aesthetic and longevity issues associated
with superficial musculoaponeurotic system techniques. As one of the early pioneers
in deep-plane rhytidectomy, the lead author will define contemporary advances in deep-plane
technique such as dissection entry point, flap design, and flap fixation concepts
that allow aggressive approach to treating both the aged neck and deflated midface.
Keywords
rhytidectomy - deep plane - aging
