Can Botox be used to soften the central platysmal bands shown here? My injector would only do the side bands (Photo)

hi there! the bands are caused by the action of the platysma muscle. this muscle is a thin sheet of muscle that basically separates your neck into a superficial and deep space. the important stuff is basically all underneath the platysma. the platysma does NOT hold your head up or really serve much of a musculoskeletal function.
however, with poor technique (or bad luck) neuromodulators can migrate past the platysma muscle (which is fairly thin), and can affect the deeper structures. often, it can cause voice hoarseness if this happens.
the center of the neck can simply be a scary place for your injector... which is ok! see someone who has a solid knowledge of anatomy (a plastic surgeon) and who feels comfortable doing this. I would never encourage an injector who simply isn't comfortable doing something, to do it-- that is a recipe for disaster.
good luck!!

Hi there,
Platysma bands can be treated centrally, however, if you have been having issues lifting your neck during Pilates, perhaps this is not the right treatment for you. There needs to be care taken so the botox does not migrate to the muscles of swallowing and the throat. A permanent treatment for the neck is a surgical neck lift.