Platysmaplasty
Starting At
$1,000
Procedure Time: 1-2 hours
Recovery Time: 1 Week
Platysmaplasty in Seattle & Tacoma
Visible neck bands and loose muscles can make one look older and more tired than they feel. Despite trying creams, exercises, and other treatments, those vertical lines keep showing up. The problem is that these aging signs come from weakened, separated neck muscles that surface treatments can’t fix. A platysmaplasty is the only option to address and eliminate old neck lines. Seattle Plastic Surgery offers world-class platysmaplasty performed by Dr. Santos, a renowned Seattle-based plastic surgeon.
What Is Platysmaplasty?
Platysmaplasty is a surgical procedure that tightens the platysma muscle in the neck. The platysma is a thin muscle that runs from the chest up to the jawline. As the muscle relaxes with age, it may separate into vertical bands that become visible during speaking or neck movement.
Because platysmaplasty corrects the muscle itself, it addresses the root cause of neck banding. Non-surgical treatments may improve skin texture or mild laxity, but they cannot bring separated muscle edges back together. Platysmaplasty is often part of a neck lift, but it can also be performed as a focused procedure when muscle laxity is the primary concern.
BENEFITS OF PLATYSMAPLASTY
Platysmaplasty provides real results for people who want to restore a younger-looking neck:
Reduces Vertical Neck Bands
The surgery gets rid of or greatly reduces those platysmal bands, giving you a smoother neck without visible muscle separation.
Smooths and Tightens the Neck Profile
By pulling the platysma muscle back into position and tightening it, the procedure restores the structural support the neck needs, eliminating sagging and creating a firmer, younger-looking contour.
Improves Jawline Definition
Tightening the neck muscles sharpens the line between the jaw and neck, creating a more sculpted look that frames the face better.
Creates Natural, Long-Lasting Results
Platysmaplasty makes permanent changes to the platysma muscle’s structure. While aging continues, the results stay stable for years, providing improvement that lasts far longer than non-surgical options.
Can Enhance Results of Other Facial Procedures
Platysmaplasty works well with neck lift surgery, facelift, liposuction, or chin augmentation for complete facial rejuvenation. The muscle tightening pairs perfectly with skin removal and fat reduction for the best possible outcome.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Neck Platysmaplasty in Seattle?
Good candidates for platysmaplasty neck lift typically have visible muscle banding rather than loose skin alone. Many patients notice these bands becoming more pronounced with age or weight changes.
Candidates often include:
- Adults with vertical neck bands
- Patients with good skin quality but muscle laxity
- Individuals seeking surgical correction rather than temporary treatments
- Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking before surgery
- Patients with realistic expectations about healing and results
Age alone does not determine candidacy. The condition of the platysma muscle and overall neck anatomy are more important factors.
Platysmaplasty Before and After Results
Platysmaplasty before and after results typically show a smoother neck profile and reduced muscle banding. Patients often notice improved definition along the jawline and a more youthful neck contour.
Early improvements are visible once swelling begins to resolve. The neck continues to refine over several weeks as tissues settle. Final results develop gradually and are influenced by the surgeon’s technique and individual healing.
Platysmaplasty Recovery Time
Platysmaplasty recovery is generally manageable with proper care.
Days 1 to 5:- Swelling and bruising are common. Tightness in the neck is expected. Most patients rest with their head elevated and limit activity.
Week 2:- Swelling continues to improve. Many patients feel comfortable returning to non-physical work. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are still avoided.
Weeks 3 to 6:- Neck contour becomes more defined. Most normal activities can be resumed with the surgeon’s approval.
Final results continue to improve as the neck softens and heals fully.
Platysmaplasty Scars: Will They Be Noticeable?
Incisions during a Platysmaplasty surgery are usually placed at discrete areas. Early scars may appear pink or firm, which is normal during healing. Over time, scars fade and become less noticeable.
Proper scar care and sun protection help support the best healing outcome. Dr. Santos provides specific aftercare guidance based on the incision locations used.
Platysmaplasty Cost in Seattle
Platysmaplasty at Seattle Plastic Surgery can start around $1,000, but that is only a starting point. The final price depends on what the neck needs and how involved the surgery will be. Costs often change based on whether platysmaplasty is done by itself or paired with other neck work, what type of anesthesia is used, and the facility fees.
Since no two necks are the same, the most accurate way to get pricing is through an in-person consultation. After the exam and a clear surgical plan is mapped out, Seattle Plastic Surgery will walk through the full cost and what is included so there are no surprises.
Choosing a Platysmaplasty Surgeon in Seattle
Picking the right surgeon is the most important decision for getting safe, natural, and satisfying results from platysmaplasty. The surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and surgical approach directly affect neck contour, scar placement, recovery, and long-term outcomes.
Seattle Plastic Surgery is a state-licensed and accredited surgical facility dedicated to facial and neck procedures. All surgeries are performed in a controlled, professional setting with strict safety standards, comprehensive pre-operative planning, and structured post-operative care. The practice emphasizes surgical precision, patient safety, and consistent results rather than one-size-fits-all treatment plans.
Platysmaplasty at Seattle Plastic Surgery is performed by Dr. David Santos, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with specialized training in head and neck anatomy. His experience includes thousands of facial and neck procedures, with a clinical focus on achieving natural definition without over-tightening or distortion.
Moreover, Dr. Santos is known for thoughtful surgical planning, precise muscle tightening techniques, and careful incision placement designed to support smooth healing and subtle results. His approach to platysmaplasty prioritizes structural correction of the neck muscle while preserving balance between the jawline, chin, and lower face.
Schedule Platysmaplasty Consultation in Seattle
If vertical neck bands, loose muscle, or loss of neck definition are affecting confidence and appearance, a platysmaplasty may provide a proven solution. Dr. David Santos at Seattle Plastic Surgery provides expert care, personalized treatment plans, and exceptional results for patients seeking neck rejuvenation.
Contact Us at 206-324-1120 to schedule a platysmaplasty consultation and take the first step toward a smoother, more defined neck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is platysmaplasty and what does it fix?
Platysmaplasty tightens the platysma neck muscle to reduce vertical neck bands and improve neck shape.
How long do platysmaplasty results last?
Platysmaplasty produces long-lasting results because it makes permanent structural changes to the platysma muscle. While natural aging continues, the improvements in muscle tone and neck contour stay stable for many years. Most people enjoy their results for 10 to 15 years or longer. Keeping a stable weight, taking care of skin, and protecting it from sun damage help preserve results.
Is platysmaplasty painful?
Pain levels vary from person to person, but most people describe post-surgery discomfort as mild to moderate. Your neck might feel tight and sore during the first few days. Prescription pain medication handles the discomfort well during the initial recovery period. As healing continues, over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough. Most people find the discomfort manageable and well worth the aesthetic improvement they get.
Can platysmaplasty be combined with a neck lift or facelift?
Yes, platysmaplasty is often combined with neck lift or facelift surgery for complete facial rejuvenation. When there is excess skin, fat, and loose muscle all at once, combining procedures gives the best results. The muscle tightening from platysmaplasty works perfectly with skin removal and fat reduction, creating a balanced, youthful appearance. Dr. Santos evaluates each person to figure out the most effective combination of procedures based on anatomy and goals.
How do I find platysmaplasty near me in Seattle?
Finding a qualified platysmaplasty surgeon in Seattle starts with researching board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in facial and neck procedures. Look for surgeons with lots of experience, positive patient reviews, and a portfolio of before and after photos showing consistent, natural results. Seattle Plastic Surgery offers platysmaplasty consultations where Dr. David Santos evaluates whether you’re a good candidate, discusses treatment options, and develops a personalized surgical plan.
What’s the difference between platysmaplasty and a neck lift?
Platysmaplasty focuses only on tightening the platysma muscle to get rid of vertical neck bands and restore structural support. A neck lift is a more complete procedure that addresses loose muscle, extra skin, and fat deposits. Neck lift surgery often includes platysmaplasty as one component, along with removing skin and liposuction. Platysmaplasty alone might be enough for people with good skin elasticity and minimal extra skin, while a full neck lift is recommended when multiple aging concerns are present.
Where are platysmaplasty incisions and scars?
Commonly under the chin (and sometimes behind the ears). Scars typically fade over time and are placed in natural creases.
Can platysmaplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes. It’s often paired with a neck lift, facelift, chin augmentation, or liposuction for more complete contouring.
How much does platysmaplasty cost in Seattle?
Pricing varies by anatomy, anesthesia, and whether it’s combined with other procedures. A consultation is the best way to get an exact quote.
What is the difference between neck bands and loose neck skin?
Bands are usually separated muscle edges. Loose skin is skin laxity. Platysmaplasty targets muscle; a neck lift targets muscle + skin/fat.
