Reduce muscles around neck area?

Question

Hi, I'm not sure what they're called but the muscles between my neck and shoulders are very bulky. I'm a 21 year old woman and they've looked like this all my life. I'd like a smooth/elegant/long neck area and these muscles make my neck look really short, awkward and bulky. I'm desperately trying to find out if there's any kind of safe surgery out there that can fix this. I know it's purely cosmetic but it's an insecurity I've been dealing with all my life and it would really help to address it. Thank you

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

It sounds like the muscles you are referring to our either the sternocleidomastoid muscle, or the trapezius muscle.  I doubt you are referring to the platysma as this sits more in front.  Unfortunately, there is no way I know of two reduced the size of this safely.  Botox would not work here either, as it would only serve to weaken this functionally necessary muscle group and the doses would need to be prohibitively high and repeated at intervals.  The only possibility is if there are were a significant fatty component superficial to these muscles which could potentially be addressed via liposuction, but more likely this is a musculoskeletal structure which cannot be addressed.  Visit a plastic surgeon in person to get examined see if indeed there is any solution.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, Phoenixforever. I suggest you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon. The Laser-Assisted Weekend Necklift provides a natural appearance in a short and comfortable recovery time after a procedure that leverages minimal invasiveness under local anesthesia. I leverage both surgical and nonsurgical techniques for this procedure. While you may be young for this procedure, injectables/liposuction and other techniques may work well for you. Best wishes,

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You can botox this area to help soften the muscle but any surgery here is hi risk for issues and scars.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

The neck muscle that run from the clavicle to the jawline is call the platysma muscle.  It is commonly manipulated and tightened during a neck lift or facelift.  At 21 years old, I believe it would be highly unlikely you would need to tighten these muscles.I would attach a picture in the future. I hope this helps.

David Q. Santos, MD · Answer

Simple answers initially are always best.  An initial attempt at Botox to the area of muscle particularly the platysmaplasty muscle that is most concerning.  If one attempt doesn't do the trick, try it a few more times.  Surgery to reduce muscle is a challenging option.  Removal of fat is routine but muscle trimming alone is not as common a practice so be wary.

Reduce muscles around neck area?

Answers (9)

Answer: Bulky Neck Muscle

Answer: Bulky Neck Muscle

Answer: Try Botox first

Answer: Try Botox first

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Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

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Reduce muscles around neck area?

Answers (9)

Answer: Bulky Neck Muscle

Answer: Bulky Neck Muscle

Answer: Try Botox first

Answer: Try Botox first

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.