The Botox neck lift: what is it and how is it done?

In some individuals, paitents present with vertical neck bands that make them appear old and often referred to as a "turkey neck." This is occasionally made worse with animation or talking. The muscle spasms and makes the bands "bow-string" and look worse.

In many instances injecting Botox will relax the muscle allowing it to fall back into the hollow of the neck and simulate a more youthful cervical contour.

This has been termed the Botox neck lift and is an off-label use of the product.

The Botox® neck lift refers to the use of Botox® Cosmetic to relax muscular bands (Platysmal bands) located immediately under the skin of the neck--not a true neck lift. You are correct, Botox® Cosmetic is only approved for the forehead frown lines.

The use of Botox® Cosmetic to lift the neck is off-label and has some risk. In general, cosmetic use in the neck has been reserved for people with little fat under the chin and mildly hanging skin and muscle bands. By relaxing the muscle band, the skin appears to droop less. If a botulinum, like Botox®, is injected too deeply, the ability to swallow or move the head normally may be affected.