Do Botox Injections Work on the Neck Bands?

Botox injections can improve the appearance of neck bands.  However, depending on the degree of skin laxity and other signs of facial aging, other treatments may be used instead of, or in addition to Botox injections. An experienced injector can tell you if this treatment is likely to be of benefit in your particular case.

 It's not
unusual for patients to develop platysmal bands during the facial aging process.
These bands occur because a separation exists in the midline between the paired
platysma muscles.   With aging
and the development of loose facial skin these muscles develop bands along
their inner borders.

The vast
majority of patients with platysma bands in the skin will require a facelift.
In some cases where platsyma bands are mild and patients hope to avoid a
facelift, botox may be used as a temporizing maneuver.

The treatment
of platysmal bands with botox requires a significant amount of technical skill.
When not performed correctly this procedure can result in difficult
swallowing.  It's therefore
important to perform a careful analysis of the neck before proceeding with botox
injections of platysma bands. Although this procedure is rarely indicated, in some cases it may yield excellent results.

Although
treatment with BOTOX® for neck bands is an off-label use, some patients do see
very nice results and enjoy a smoother look and feel after their appointment.
It’s important to only visit a highly skilled injector, as the platysma muscle
is quite thin and delicate. Also, injections in the neck have to be delivered
at a very precise depth, as there are many essential muscles in the area that
shouldn’t be disturbed. Finally, remember that BOTOX® isn’t going to improve loose
or hanging skin. A neck lift can be performed to address neck bands and skin
laxity simultaneously.