Botox has a profound influence as a neuromuscular modulator in improving facial aesthetics. It is used to relax muscles, therefore softening and sometimes eliminating wrinkles on the face and neck. Most commonly known for its use in treating glabellar creases, horizontal forehead creases and crow’s feet, Botox has created a paradigm shift in the treatment of the aging face. In addition to the upper third of the face, Botox is also used to treat vertical lip lines, gummy smiles, and even vertical neck bands.
One of the most uncommon use for Botox is in the treatment of vertical neck bands, also known as platysmal neck bands. Platysmal bands are caused by the separation of the platysmal muscle that runs as a thin muscular sheet from the collar bone to the lower border of the jawline. This separation occurs over time as we age and creates the appearance of bands on the neck. These bands are commonly as part of a facelift procedure. Along with liposuction to remove excess fat from the neck, the platysma muscle is sutured together to repair the separation that has occurred and rid the neck of the vertical bands.
Although a facelift is the definitive treatment for platysmal bands, often it is not on the radar as an option for many patients whether it is because of the recovery time or economics of the surgery. Therefore, the use of Botox to treat them may be an alternative temporary solution for some. The first step in the possibility of Botox as a treatment option is to select the correct patient. Botox is great for treating the platysmal bands of a patient who does not have excess neck fat and excess skin. Botox works to relax the platysma muscle but does not reduce fat or tighten skin, therefore patients with these issues will not see good results from these muscle injections.
The bands are injecting by grasping the band and directly injecting them with approximately fifteen to twenty units of Botox, divided into three injections along the length of the band. Depending on the injector and cost per unit, the cost of this treatment may range from $400 to$750 and as with any other cosmetic Botox injections, the results will last three to four months. It has been found to provide excellent results in patients with very minimal neck fat and excess skin. Thin-skinned patient with prominent bands can get very noticeable improvements. There usually is no bruising or recovery. It takes a full week to see the full muscular relaxing effects on the neck bands on this ‘Turkey Neck Botox Treatment’.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana