One area that often gets overlooked in the anti-aging arena is the neck. With its delicate skin and complex muscular structure, the neck shows the telltale signs of aging just as much as the face. One sign of an aging neck is the emergence of platysmal bands—those vertical neck bands that can give the neck a skeletal appearance compared to the face.
Although the exact cause of platysmal bands in the aging neck is not fully understood, surgery is an option employed under the assumption that these bands originate from overall weakened muscular tone in the neck, neck skin thinning, and decreased dermal tenacity. However, an alternative theory suggests that the overactivity of the platysma muscle leads to vertical banding, as evidenced by the absence of neck bands on the paralyzed side of patients with unilateral facial palsy. (1) Given the growing preference for noninvasive facial rejuvenation methods, Botox treatments for neck bands are becoming commonplace.
Is Botox Safe for the Neck
Studies have shown promising results for using Botox to treat platysmal bands, particularly in patients with mild to moderate bands requiring a low to average dose. “Botulinum toxin A can be an effective off-label treatment that softens the appearance of vertical platysma bands. With modest dosing levels of 30-50 units of Ona-botulinum toxin A and not the high-doses advocated in some older reports.” (2) One study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that Botox injections significantly improved the appearance of platysmal bands in most patients, with results lasting for several months. (1)
In addition, there is a minimal risk of complications when Botox is injected into the prominent portion of the band and ideal dosing is used. In the journal review, Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Mild to Moderate Platysma Bands: A Systematic Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Injection Technique, three studies were performed with a total of 78 participants, 12 of the 78 participants had complications; however, the main compilation was a hematoma (bruise). Not one complication required further intervention. (1) Thus, overall, the safety of Botox for Playstmal Bands is very high.
What Does a Botox for the Neck Treatment Look Like
Botox for platysmal bands is effective, relatively fast, and nearly painless. The number of injections and the volume of Botox required will vary based on the prominence of the bands and the desired results. At Aluma, treatment typically involves approximately 5-10 units of Botox per band, administered through 3-4 injections in a linear pattern, spaced about 2 cm apart. In addition, pinching the skin and grabbing hold of the underlying platysma band to lift it away from the underlying anatomic structures is employed for added safety.
Conclusion
If you have mild to moderate vertical banding that you are concerned about aesthetically, you are a good candidate for Botox for Platysmal Bands. To learn more, book a consultation at Aluma Aesthetic Medicine, the leading provider of Botox treatments in Portland.
Citations:
1. Conor M. Sugrue, MCh, MRCS, MB, BCH, BAO; Jack L. Kelly, FRCS (Plast), MD; and Niall McInerney, FRCS (Plast), MD. Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Mild to Moderate Platysma Bands: A Systematic Review of Efficacy, Safety, and Injection Technique 2018: Aesthetic Surgery Journal 2019, Vol 39(2) 201–206
2. David L. Chen MDa and Joel L. Cohen MD. Botulinum Toxin-A Chemical Denervation for Platysmal Bands: Maximal Dosing Considerations. 2015: Journal of Drugs and Dermatology: Volume 14 issue 9.
3. Matarasso A, Matarasso SL, Brandt FS, Bellman B. Botulinum A exotoxin for the management of platysma bands. Plastic Reconstr Surg. 1999;103:645-52; 53-5.
