Ten Tips Based on Anatomy and Design to Refine Face and Neck Lift Surgery

Any face/neck lift operation has a natural flow of slower and speedier portions; slower when dissecting under the superficial musculoaponeurotic system and around nerves while faster during opening, undermining, defatting, and closing. Surgeons can maximize efficiency with these simple maneuvers. METHODS: We introduce and demonstrate ten reproducible surgical techniques based on anatomy, which span aspects of the entire face and neck lift procedure including markings, skin flap elevation, sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system manipulation, preplatysmal fat management, skin re-draping, and post-operative dressings. RESULTS: As examples, altered scissors facilitate “push” undermining, scoops reduce time for fat removal in the neck, a non-inset method for lobule creation, and digital measurements for certain technical maneuvers are discussed. Moreover, a block and tackle method of facial nerve blocks is reviewed which permits local-only face and neck lifting as well as hematoma drainage without patient intolerance. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of these surgical techniques in face and neck lift procedures allows the surgeon to potentially decrease operative time and work towards minimizing post-operative edema while attaining aesthetic and natural results.