The neck often reveals signs of aging earlier than other facial areas. Loose skin, muscle banding, and stubborn fat deposits can make the neck look older than the face. A neck lift, medically known as lower rhytidectomy, restores youthful definition and smooth contours. At the heart of this procedure are two key techniques: cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty. Understanding how these methods work together can help you make an informed choice about your treatment.
At UMass Memorial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Worcester, MA, patients are cared for by board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons who specialize in facial and neck rejuvenation. As faculty members at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, they combine advanced surgical skill with a deep understanding of anatomy to create refined, natural-looking results.
What Is Cervicoplasty?
Cervicoplasty focuses on removing excess skin from the neck to create smoother, tighter contours. It is ideal for patients who experience loose or crepey skin beneath the chin or along the jawline. During surgery, small incisions are made behind the ears or under the chin to lift and remove redundant skin. The remaining tissue is carefully repositioned for a more youthful neckline.
Key benefits of cervicoplasty include:
- Improved skin firmness and reduction of sagging.
- Refined neck and jawline definition for a more sculpted appearance.
- Minimal scarring with discreet incision placement.
Cervicoplasty primarily addresses skin laxity, making it a powerful option for individuals whose main concern is drooping or loose skin.
What Is Platysmaplasty?
Platysmaplasty targets the deeper layers of the neck by tightening the platysma muscle—a broad, thin muscle that can loosen with age. This technique corrects vertical banding, eliminates neck “bands,” and enhances the underlying structure for a firmer, smoother profile.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions under the chin or behind the ears. The platysma muscle is then adjusted and secured with sutures to restore its supportive function. In some cases, fat removal or liposuction may be performed simultaneously for improved contour.
Benefits of platysmaplasty include:
- Tightened muscle tone and reduction of visible neck bands.
- Restored structure beneath the skin for a natural, lifted look.
- Enhanced jawline definition when combined with cervicoplasty.
How These Procedures Work Together
Cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty are often performed together as part of a comprehensive neck lift. When combined, they treat both the surface skin and the underlying muscle layers, delivering balanced, long-lasting results. This dual approach smooths wrinkles, reduces sagging, and redefines the neck’s natural contour.
A neck lift combining both techniques can:
- Improve harmony between the face and neck.
- Reduce signs of aging without creating a tight or overdone appearance.
- Provide lasting rejuvenation with results that can endure for many years.
Schedule Your Neck Lift Consultation in Worcester
If you’re ready to learn how cervicoplasty and platysmaplasty can restore youthful contours, schedule your consultation at UMass Memorial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Worcester, MA. Call (508) 334-5990 to meet with a board-certified surgeon and explore personalized neck lift options in Worcester and South Dennis.




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