The Modified Tuckster Necklift Technique: A Safe, Reliable Technique for a Sharp Jawline and Lateral Neck
Face and necklift continues to be one of the most common aesthetic operations performed. A sharp jawline and gonial angle are the sine qua non of successful lower face and necklift. There exist many variations in surgical technique for aesthetic optimization; in this study we describe the senior author’s preferred technique to define the mandibular border, tighten the platysma, and plicate the lateral neck and review this technique’s complication data.
Methods/Technique:
Operative technique involves a purse-string suture of the musculofascial platysma inferior to the inferior border of the mandible. We performed a retrospective study on all consecutive patients who underwent our modification of SMAS/Platysma imbrication from Jan 1, 2017 to August 31, 2022 to evaluate complication rates. Patients’ sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and complications were analyzed.
Results/Complications:
A total of 201 female and 13 male patients were identified after undergoing necklift in combination with lower rhytidectomy with or without concomitant cosmetic procedures. Of the 214 patients, a complication (major or minor) was present in 14 (6.5%) of them . Complication profile was as follows: Hematoma 2 (1%), seroma 3 (1.5%), submandibular induration 2 (1%). 4 patients (2%) complained of an over-tightened sensation. There were 2 instances (1%) of fat necrosis in the early period. Importantly, there was no cervical or marginal nerve dysfunction.
Conclusion:
Our design of a platysmal imbricating suture is a safe, effective, and reliable technique for creating a sharp jawline and lateral neck. Importantly it tightens the neck without any risk for nerve injuries. It is easy to teach, to perform, and is a powerful tool in the necklift surgeon’s armamentarium.