Posterior cervical rhytidectomy: a valuable adjunct in facial rejuvenation surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the aesthetic indications and operative technique of posterior cervical rhytidectomy as a staged procedure after extended cervical-facial rhytidectomy.


METHODS
The senior author's series of patients requiring posterior cervical rhytidectomy is reviewed, including preoperative and postoperative aesthetic results.


METHODS
A private practice plastic surgery clinic.


METHODS
Eleven patients who underwent staged posterior cervical rhytidectomy after extensive cervical-facial rhytidectomy are presented, with follow-up ranging from 3 months to 8 years. During this same duration, 941 primary and 256 secondary cervical-facial rhytidectomies were performed.


METHODS
The preoperative and postoperative results are presented along with a description of the pertinent anatomy and the senior author's operative technique. Potential complications are reviewed. A discussion is included on ways to minimize these untoward sequelae.


METHODS
The aesthetic postoperative results are reviewed, and representative clinical photographs are presented.


RESULTS
Staged posterior cervical rhytidectomy is a safe and effective means of improving certain stigmata of previous cervical-facial rhytidectomy in patients requiring extensive facial rejuvenation.


CONCLUSIONS
Posterior cervical rhytidectomy is a valuable surgical adjunct in selective patients who demonstrate redundant skin and soft tissue in the posterior cervical region.
Campbell
J P
JP
Section on Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536-0084, USA.
McCollough
E G
EG
Metzinger
S E
SE
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009333:Neck; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D015361:Rhytidoplasty / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome