The neck is an extension of the face, and it is prone to all the same signs of aging, such as wrinkles and sagging. Therefore, any aesthetic rejuvenation regimen that ignores the neck may be incomplete. Neck rejuvenation comes in many forms and can be achieved both surgically and non-surgically. Your provider will explain your options during your private consultation and help determine the best approach based on your goals, budget, expectations, and lifestyle factors.
Understanding the neck’s anatomy
Before choosing the best neck rejuvenation procedure, it is important to understand the way that the neck may be affected by the aging process. There are four main components that make up the anatomy of the neck:
- Skin – This is the superficial layer of the neck that is prone to wrinkles, crepe-like creases, and loss of elasticity over time. As the body’s supply of collagen and elastin diminishes, the neck may lose its taut, slender appearance.
- Fat – Directly underneath the skin is a layer of fat. Some patients may develop a thicker subcutaneous layer of fat that leads to a double chin (submental fullness). This can compromise the profile and reduce definition in the jawline.
- Platysma – Platysma are bands of muscles beneath the fat layer that run vertically from the lower face to the collarbone, one on each side of the neck. As these platysma bands become more pronounced with age, they can create a sinewy look. The bands may also become lax, resulting in what is usually called a “turkey neck.”
Each individual will face a unique combination of issues with the above neck components, making it that much more important that their neck rejuvenation procedure is highly customized and curated with their needs in mind.
Non-surgical neck rejuvenation options
For patients who wish to avoid anesthesia, incisions, and scarring, non-surgical treatments can help revitalize the neck appearance with fewer risks and inconveniences. Below are just a few of the cutting-edge techniques available with today’s advanced technology:
- Profound RF microneedling – Microneedling triggers the body’s natural wound-healing abilities by making a series of fine punctures in the skin. The result is enhanced production of collagen and elastin, key proteins responsible for skin suppleness, resilience, and hydration. Profound adds innovative radiofrequency energy to the treatment to maximize outcomes. Used on the neck, the Profound RF device can firm the jowls, smooth away lines, and enhance skin volume for a more youthful, inviting appearance.
- CoolSculpting – CoolSculpting relies on advanced cooling technology to freeze fat cells, eliminating them from the body for good. Applied to the neck, CoolSculpting can reduce stubborn submental fat and create a tighter, more flattering neckline and profile. While patients may feel a slight tugging sensation during their session, CoolSculpting is not considered painful, and patients can enjoy reading, watching movies, or talking on the phone while the CoolSculpting panels take effect.
Neck rejuvenation through surgery
Surgical procedures for reversing the signs of aging in the neck come with the most dramatic and lasting results. The following procedures can help patients to reclaim their self-confidence and enjoy a more youthful presentation:
- Deep neck lift – A deep neck lift is sometimes also called platysmaplasty because it addresses not only sagging skin and fatty tissue but also the vertical bands running between the chin and the collarbone. An incision is created underneath the chin through which your plastic surgeon can sculpt the neck’s angle.
- Neck liposuction – Liposuction is a surgical procedure to reduce pockets of stubborn fat. The fat cells are suctioned out through a slender tube known as a cannula and are then discarded or saved for a future fat transfer procedure. Fat in the neck and under the chin may be resistant to dieting and exercise, so liposuction in these areas is very useful for improving the profile. Neck liposuction can be performed on its own or in combination with a surgical neck lift.
The bottom line
Neck rejuvenation is more important than ever today, as more and more patients find themselves on camera due to the rise of videoconferencing, FaceTime, and Zoom. There are many different ways to pursue improvement in the neck region, including both surgical and non-surgical procedures. The option for you depends on factors such as your tolerance for scarring, the amount of time you can devote to recovery, and how much you want to spend on neck rejuvenation. Speak with a qualified, credentialed aesthetic specialist today to learn more about which advanced neck rejuvenation procedure is right for your needs and goals.