My neck! I’m happy with my face but is there anything nonsurgical for the neck?

Hi, I am a 70 year youthful woman. I am often told that I look 15 years or 20 years younger, however my neck gives it away. Plastic surgeons have told me that I should have a full face lift but from my neck up I have no wrinkles and little sagging. is there something permanent or temporary that will help lift my neck other than a full face lift. I am happy with my face above my neck

I have many patients who are interested in improving their necks but happy with their faces. And I agree with you that the risks of surgery, since it’s really a full facelift, may not be worth it. Having said that, nonsurgical technology for the neck is improving, but not as good as we all would like it to be. Don’t overlook the obvious though which is a good moisturizer and sunscreen.

 

Here’s what’s realistic:

 

  • Look at the new Excilis Elite –  it uses radiofrequency – I will be posting a new article on this technology soon.
  • Fractionated CO2 laser like the DEKA DOT. MUST be done by laser experts, the neck is tricky –  good to excellent improvement in 2-4 treatments spaced several months apart. Learn more about the fractionated CO2 laser
  • Thermage  – can be very helpful on the face for certain individuals but don’t bother with it on the neck. In my opinion, it doesn’t work well on the neck.
  • IPL –  works well on the neck for color problems only like redness or brown spots. It does nothing or little for wrinkles or tightening.
  • Fraxel –  at 70, not a good option.  At 40, for just a little crepiness, a reasonable choice – 1–2 treatments needed.
  • Botox –  helps for prominent platysmal bands or “necklace lines” only.

 

Hope this helps,  Dr. I

 

Learn more about anti-aging and wrinkle creams.

 

See my recommendations on sunscreens.

 

More information on neck skin issues.  

 

 

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!