Neck contour alterations: "Lamellar" classification and treatment protocol

ABSTRACT

Objective:

The aim of the current study is to propose a classification based on neck lamellas for the aesthetic variations of the cervical region, considering its unique anatomy and analysing each structure involved (skin, muscle, fat and submandibular gland), in order to make it easier to choose the most appropriate surgical treatment.

Method:

The senior author, elaborated an observational study of 480 patients operated for neck and face lift between 1998 and 2010, established a classification comparing the skin flaccidity, the amount of fat accumulation, muscle flaccidity and cervical contour alterations, with the best surgical treatment for each group, being grade I (11.7%), grade II (7%), grade III (23%), grade IV (40%) and grade V (18.3%).

Results:

The development of the current classification made it possible to group the cervical alterations that results from the aging process. Each group has common, easily recognizable alterations and for each one we have proposed a different treatment algorithm, in relation to the technique and the scar positioning (classic neck and facelift, short scar facelift, cervical lift, atypical lift and neck and facelift with anterior temporal scar).

Conclusion:

With the present study it was possible to come to the conclusion that the cervical region is the main determinant for the selection of the best surgical technique and scars placement in the surgery for the rejuvenation of the neck and face.

Keywords:
Face; Neck; Rhytidoplasty; Surgery; Plastic; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures