Definition

Noun: 1. A broad, thin sheet of muscle: The platysma is one of two paired, superficial muscles located on the front and sides of the neck. It is a thin, flat muscle layer. 2. A muscle of facial expression: Although located in the neck, the platysma is innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and is involved in movements of the mouth, jaw, and lower face, such as pulling the corners of the mouth down or tightening the skin of the neck.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon carefully dissected the platysma to access the underlying structures.
  • Tension in the platysma can contribute to the appearance of vertical bands in the neck.
  • The platysma muscle is often visible when a person grimaces or expresses strong sadness or anger.

Advanced Usage

• "Platysmal bands": Refers to the visible, vertical cords that can appear in the neck with age or tension as the overlying skin thins and the edges of the platysma muscle become more prominent.
  • Some cosmetic procedures aim to reduce the appearance of platysmal bands.
• "Platysmaplasty": A surgical procedure that specifically involves tightening or modifying the platysma muscle, often as part of a neck lift.
  • The facelift included a platysmaplasty to improve the neck contour.

Variants and Related Words

• Platysmal (adjective): Pertaining to the platysma muscle.
  • The platysmal layer was identified during the procedure.

Synonyms

• Superficial neck muscle: A descriptive term highlighting its location.
• (Part of) the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS): In anatomical and surgical contexts, the platysma is considered a component of this interconnected layer of facial tissues.

Notes on Meaning

The platysma is specifically an anatomical term. Its primary meaning is the muscle itself. Its functional meaning relates to its role in facial and neck movement and expression. The word is almost exclusively used in medical, anatomical, physiological, or cosmetic surgery contexts.

Noun

1. either of two broad muscles located on either side of the neck and innervated by the facial nerve; extends from lower jaw to clavicle and is involved in moving the mouth and jaw