Functional and aesthetic consequences of total platysma resection.

The functional and aesthetic effects of total unilateral platysma resection during ablative surgery is described and outlined for the first time (to our knowledge). The consequences of this resection are analyzed with respect to the partial facial paralysis that is evident. A model describing the dynamics of this paralysis is presented. These data are important in understanding the contribution of the platysma to the smile and the effects of manipulating this muscle during aesthetic and reconstructive neck surgery.