The neck region is one of the most common areas to show signs of aging first and can be one of the hardest places to hide. There are many factors that can create sagging, wrinkled skin in the neck—sometimes referred to as a “turkey neck” or “turkey wattle”—including sun exposure, genetics, and the natural loss of collagen and elasticity over time that leads to less firm, thinner skin and decreased muscle tone. Fortunately, if these cosmetic concerns become bothersome to you, there are treatment options to consider for improving one’s appearance that can provide a more youthful, smoother neck contour.
Below, our board-certified facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Jonathan Pontell and Dr. Catherine Weng, explain some of the most effective solutions to improve a sagging neck:
Neck Lift / Neck Contouring
For patients with fullness in the neck, a neck lift or neck contouring can be performed. This may include liposuction to remove excess fat in the neck, removing deeper fat, tightening neck muscles, and repositioning the remaining tissue and skin to restore a firmer, younger-looking neck and jawline. Despite the adjustments and the transformation, scars from the procedure are typically well-concealed under the chin and ear lobes and should gradually fade to some extent over time.
Facelift and Neck Lift
If concerns of visible aging extend to the cheeks and lower facial region, jowls and neck, a facelift / neck lift may be the recommended course of treatment, which generally includes addressing a sagging neck as well as excess fat and loose muscle in the neck area. Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng perform all of their procedures, including neck lifts and facelifts, utilizing the most advanced surgical techniques to ensure patients still look like themselves with natural-looking results that further enhance their personal aesthetic.
Ultherapy®
For a non-invasive skin tightening alternative, Ultherapy® can reverse mild effects of early aging by heating deep neck tissues and stimulating collagen production through micro-focused ultrasound waves deep into the skin and muscle structure. Over time, Ultherapy® can tighten and lift targeted areas in the neck for a refreshed appearance—without any recovery or downtime in most cases.
Cosmetic Injectables
In addition to a sagging neck appearance, vertical neck bands can also be the culprit of an aged-looking neck area. To help temporarily diminish signs of wrinkles and lines on the neck (platysmal bands) without requiring surgery, aesthetic injectables such as BOTOX® Cosmetic or XEOMIN® or Dysport® may be recommended. These neuromodulators work by immobilizing dynamic wrinkle-causing muscles, creating a smoother, more youthful appearance. The results usually last about three to four months and can often be maintained with occasional follow-up injections.
To learn more about facial and neck rejuvenation options, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pontell or Dr. Weng, please contact us today.
