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From the Neck Up: Techniques and other tips for cosmetic success.

A facelift procedure that is safe and effective is sure to bring a smile to the patient and the dermatologist. That’s the goal, said Beverly Hills, California, dermatologist Lauren Moy, MD, FAAD, who was among the panelists at the 2024 AAD Annual Meeting session, F027 – Advanced Cosmetic Procedures: Lipo, Lifts, and Lids.

Dr. Moy and the panel of experts took attendees on a journey of the best and simplest cosmetic techniques for eyelid rejuvenation, and neck and face lifting. They explored the full spectrum of considerations, including pre-operative evaluation, potential complications, local anesthesia techniques, and tips for beginning cosmetic surgeons to achieve the best outcomes.

“Plication technique can be effective with fewer complications and risks than some deep plane techniques,” Dr. Moy said. “Picking the appropriate patient candidate and combining CO₂ laser and possible nanofat also leads to high patient satisfaction that surgical dermatologists can perform.”

The procedure is designed for the patient who has jowls and facial sagging.

Additionally, blepharoplasty techniques can improve and tighten upper eye lid skin as well as the bags under the eyes, she said.

The techniques reviewed during the session “can sharpen the jawline and tighten the neck skin,” Dr. Moy said.

Upper blepharoplasty is a procedure that dermatologic surgeons can confidently perform and can lead to high patient satisfaction as well, she said. The panel reviewed anatomy, measurements, and markings as well as technical pearls from each of the panelists.  

For a neck lift, the session reviewed the effectiveness of combining submental incision and platysmaplasty with a suture sling and plication technique. Considering patient anatomy, surgical techniques, and post-operative care is essential, she said.

Additionally, Dr. Moy said tumescent anesthesia was effective and, in her experience, made the procedure almost painless for the patient when combined with anxiolytics.

“We all have different protocols, and it was great to collaborate and see what others use,” she said. “Just like any surgical procedure, there are possible complications. But luckily with our techniques, they’re minimal. Shadowing with other physicians who are performing these procedures would be key to getting started on these cosmetic techniques.”