Preoperative evaluation of the aging neck patient

The appearance of the neck plays an important role in terms of the patient's overall facial appearance. Facial rejuvenation procedures incorporate rejuvenation and improvement of the neck's appearance as a key component. Preoperative evaluation of the aging neck determines the type of rejuvenation procedures that will be required. There are key components of the neck that should be evaluated, assessed, and documented. Subsequently, appropriate treatment modalities may be incorporated into the operative or treatment plan. Key components include evaluation of the mandibular margin, hyoid position, condition of the skin, soft tissue adipose, and the status of the platysmal muscle layer.