Will microneedling possibly make my neck laxity look worse? (Photo)

Question

Have some visible platysmal bands under my chin that show when I turn my neck as well as some skin laxity down the middle of my neck. Not ready for surgery yet and have had microneedling or sculptra suggested for neck improvement, but I'm aware improvement might be minimal, if any. I am considering microneedling since it's a better value and since I can treat my entire face too for overall skin texture improvement, but should I worry it might make my neck bands worse or more visible?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Microneedling is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for improving skin texture and can stimulate collagen production, which may help with mild skin laxity. However, it is unlikely to significantly worsen neck laxity or make platysmal bands more visible.

Microneedling works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which can lead to increased collagen and elastin production. This process can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture. For mild skin laxity, microneedling might offer some improvement, but results can vary depending on the severity of the laxity and individual skin characteristics.

Platysmal bands, which are caused by the underlying platysma muscle, may not be significantly affected by microneedling, as this treatment primarily targets the skin rather than deeper muscular structures. If the bands are a primary concern, other treatments such as Botox injections might be more effective in relaxing the muscle and reducing the appearance of the bands.

It's important to have realistic expectations and understand that while microneedling can offer some benefits, it may not provide dramatic improvements for significant neck laxity or prominent platysmal bands. Consulting with a dermatologist or cosmetic professional can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

Falguni Patel, MD, FACOG · Answer

Microneedling is a great option to help get minimize the neck lines, it will not make it worse or make it sag more!
Another option to help with your neck bands can be Botox, when injected it will help relax the muscle that is pulling down on your chin/jawline.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. If you’re considering microneedling for both your neck and face, it's important to weigh the potential benefits and concerns. Microneedling can improve skin texture and promote collagen production, which may help with overall laxity and the appearance of platysmal bands. However, there’s a possibility that microneedling could initially cause some swelling or irritation, which might make the bands appear more pronounced temporarily. On the other hand, CO2 laser resurfacing is another option that could be more effective for addressing skin laxity and improving the appearance of platysmal bands. This treatment works by delivering precise laser energy to the skin, promoting deeper collagen remodeling and tightening the skin over time. CO2 laser resurfacing can yield more significant results for tightening and smoothing the neck area, although it does involve a longer recovery period. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Microdroplets of Botox have been used successfully for treating vertical neck cords for more than 25 years, particularly those that worsen when the person grits his/her teeth. Additionally, if still necessary, certain HA fillers can be used to contour the neck and further diminish these cords at rest. I have personally been employing this combination approach for many years with gratifying results. 
Microneedling is unlikely to be helpful. It is much better as a primary treatment for superficial, surface textural or color abnormalities. 
You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist injector expert and best of luck. .

Tulsi Kotecha, MD · Answer

Microneedling is great for improving skin texture and stimulating collagen, but when it comes to neck laxity and platysmal bands, it has its limitations. If your main concern is loose skin or visible bands, microneedling alone probably won’t give you the results you’re looking for.
If skin texture is your primary concern, microneedling can definitely help. But if you’re hoping for tightening, I’d recommend RF microneedling (like Sylfirm X or Morpheus8) and may be followed with Radiesse treatment. Also, If the platysmal bands bother you, a little Botox or Daxxify in the neck can help relax them as well.

Will microneedling possibly make my neck laxity look worse? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Nonsurgical Neck Rejuvenation

Answer: Nonsurgical Neck Rejuvenation

Answer: RF Microneedling

Answer: RF Microneedling

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Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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Will microneedling possibly make my neck laxity look worse? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Nonsurgical Neck Rejuvenation

Answer: Nonsurgical Neck Rejuvenation

Answer: RF Microneedling

Answer: RF Microneedling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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