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.

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

[SETTING] A private practice plastic surgery clinic.

[PATIENTS] 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.

[INTERVENTIONS] 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.

[OUTCOME MEASURE] 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.