Imbrication of Anterior Digastric with Advancement of the Posterior Digastric and Its Implications in Neck Aesthetics

Introduction

The research paper "Imbrication of Anterior Digastric with Advancement of the Posterior Digastric and Its Implications in Neck Aesthetics" by Anil R. Shah, Ashley Diaz, and Samuel Auger, published in Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine in 2023, explores an innovative technique in neck aesthetic surgery. This study represents a significant contribution to the field of plastic surgery, particularly in enhancing neck aesthetics through the manipulation of the digastric muscles.

Methodology
​
The research team retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 52 patients who underwent neck rejuvenation procedures, comparing those who received digastric manipulation to those who did not. The authors introduced a novel technique that involves imbricating the anterior portion of the digastric muscle while advancing the posterior portion, aiming to modify the ratio of these muscles to achieve improved neck contours. Preoperative and postoperative images were meticulously analyzed using computer software to quantify changes in the digastric ratio and overall neck height.

Findings
​
The study found that patients who underwent the digastric manipulation technique exhibited a significant improvement in the anterior-to-posterior digastric ratio, averaging a 26.5% enhancement compared to a 15.9% improvement in the control group. Furthermore, the distance from the cervical point to the inferior edge of the mandible decreased by an average of 13.9% in the intervention group, indicating a more aesthetically pleasing neck profile. These results suggest that manipulating the digastric muscles can lead to substantial improvements in neck aesthetics.

Clinical Implications
​
The implications of Shah et al.'s findings are profound for the field of facial plastic surgery. The demonstrated technique offers a novel approach to addressing common aesthetic concerns of the neck, providing patients with a more defined and youthful neck contour. This method presents an alternative to more invasive procedures, potentially reducing recovery time and associated risks. Moreover, the study's findings underscore the importance of understanding the anatomical and functional aspects of neck muscles in achieving desired aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusion
​
"Imbrication of Anterior Digastric with Advancement of the Posterior Digastric and Its Implications in Neck Aesthetics" by Shah, Diaz, and Auger offers valuable insights into the advancement of neck aesthetic surgery. By showcasing the efficacy of a novel digastric muscle manipulation technique, the study contributes to the broader understanding of surgical approaches to neck rejuvenation. Future research could explore long-term outcomes of this technique, compare it against other neck contouring methods, and investigate its application in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures, further enriching the surgical options available for enhancing neck aesthetics.