Vertical neck band at age 23? Can I do anything about it? (Photo)

Question

I have aged RAPIDLY since I took accutane, an acne med that damaged my body and prematurely aged me. I am only 23 and have vertical neck bands, thin crepey sagging skin, wrinkles, arthritis and hair thining. Is it normal for someone my age to have a neck this aged (when strained) and saggy and can I do anything about it?

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for the picture you posted.I can't say if the medication you took would have caused this.  In my 14 years experience in facial plastic surgery, most patients start showing the separation (dehiscence) of their plastysmal muscle bands in their 40's.  That being said, there is a small group of people where the muscles never were really or strongly attached and consequently, will show the separation early in time.Now I should add that your neck is very slim and that most people with thin neck can demonstrate some forms of banding with exaggerated mouth down-frowning, i.e. with muscle contraction.  In those cases, Botox can be tried, usually 12-15 units per band.  Botox only helps tight bands in the neck, not the loose ones.Otherwise, a small incision can be performed under the chin and the muscle can be repaired (reapproximated) and sutured from the chin to the throat cartilage.  This is a one-hour procedure and can often be done under intravenous sedation.Let us know if this information was useful!Best regards,Dr. Marc DuPéré, Toronto aesthetic plastic surgeon and facialist.

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

These bands are the result of contraction of the platysma muscle. Dysport or Botox injections represent the treatment of choice.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

You neck appears very skinny and your neck bands show so early. This may be constitutional and/or it may be related to your underlying medical condition.Treatment with Botox and Botox-like agent will help for some time. Skin condition, unfortunately,  will not improve with this treatment.You should consult a board certified plastic surgeon and discuss your options of short and long term treatment. Good luck.

Cameron Chesnut, MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

Your bands are a result of a hyperactive muscle called the platysma. This muscle can be relaxed with some Botox or Dysport quite easily and affordably. Do not let someone recommend a neck lift for you, that is a gross overkill and waaaay down the road for you. Starting Botox now will likely delay ever needing a necklift as well.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest seeing a cosmetic dermatologist who does a significant amount of neck rejuvenation.  This is easily treated with botox/dysport and can be improved significantly with Thermi.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vertical neck band at age 23? Can I do anything about it? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Neck bands

Answer: Neck bands

Answer: Neck Bands -- Botox, Thermi

Answer: Neck Bands -- Botox, Thermi

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Vertical neck band at age 23? Can I do anything about it? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Neck bands

Answer: Neck bands

Answer: Neck Bands -- Botox, Thermi

Answer: Neck Bands -- Botox, Thermi

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Everything you need to know about Neck Lift

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