How do I get rid of these platysma bands that show up when I smile and sometimes talk or eat? (photo)

Question

I am only 19, but I am tired of being asked what is going on with my neck in my pictures. I always have to edit my pictures and I am really insecure about it. I want to know if they can be either decently minimized or cut out/gone. If so what are my options?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

"Injecting soft fillers like Belotero in this area can reduce lines, wrinkles and folds as well as improve skin texture with long-term collagen production. Fillers are being used more frequently to contour and lift rather than solely line fill. Of course, fillers are best used in combination with lasers and microneedling with PRP to get the optimal outcome.

I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist to create an individualized treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer"

I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist to create an individualized treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer"

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

Since you are 19, a surgical procedure would most likely not be indicated. However if you go to an experienced Botox injector, the bands should be able to be lessened significantly.

Jose Barrera, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question regarding stubborn neck bands. As I review your photo, there is clear neck skin laxity with prominent platysma bands. There are several ways to address neck bands including corset platysmaplasty as well as facelift suspension of the bands through a deep plane facelift. This can be approached through a short scar as well. I would consult with someone who has addressed this issue quite a bit and can show you results.

Christopher T. Maloney Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Botox can work very well at reducing the appearance of the dynamic bands. Find an experienced injector in your area that is in a dermatology or plastic surgery practice. Best of luck.

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

Because of your youth, I would consider Botox if these bands really bothered you.  Try a conservative approach before considering surgery.

Larry Weinstein, MD · Answer

You are a beautiful young woman with interesting neck muscles.. If these neck muscle are really hampering your style consider a neurotoxin Botox or Xeomin that can be injected by an Asethetic  ASAPS member board certified plastic surgeon. Surgical options are your last resort. Good luck...

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Vertical neck bands are caused by contraction of the platysma muscle.  The bands are most evident when you smile or grit your teeth.  A nice and fast treatment is Botox Cosmetic injected into the bands.  This is an off-label treatment but is very effective.  The results last from 3-6 months.  Usually 10-15 units are used per band.
For horizontal bands, dermal fillers or Nova threads can be helpful.  Based on your pictures, the Botox will likely be a nice treatment for your vertical bands.

Good Luck

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

As I see it, you have two options.  The first is Botox, which will you will need to have administered every three or four months, spending $500-$1000 each time depending on pricing.  The softening of the bands will be mild and MAY leave you disappointed. It would make sense to at least try this option to see what the response is.The other option is surgery which will contact the bands, which are formed by the edges of the two sides of your neck muscles.  As this is a structural problem, really only structural modifications will be an adequate fix.  True, having a surgery at 19 for something like this would be rare, (many would claim excessive), but structures are structures, and they don't care how old you are.I would discuss this in person with a surgeon well versed in both Botox for platysmal banding, and corset platysmaplasty.Best of luck!
Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS · Answer

I would consider Botox in your case if it is really bugging you. Don't let anyone operate on you for this at 19.

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

The bands in your neck are a result of your platysma muscle which lies just under the skin of your neck.  This can most easily be treated with botox from an experienced provider.  Be careful who you allow to do botox for this as if it is done incorrectly it can result in difficulty swallowing.  Surgery can also  be performed but I would recommend trying botox or dysport first.   Make sure you see a board certified plastic surgeon.  Best of luck
Raymond Jean MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon  Bryn Mawr, Philadelphia PA