It is essential to keep in mind that plastic surgery is a medical specialty. This means that we are governed by diagnosis, thorough evaluation, assessment of the situation, and implementing a treatment plan. This is the basis for plastic surgery as well as all of medicine.
Lines in the neck can be present at a very early age. They are a result of the motion of the neck and its relationship to the underlying facial muscles. The PLATYSMA muscle extends from the jawbone, into the neck, and down to the collarbones.
Motion of the neck up and down while using the computer has led to some to refer to these lines as tech neck. A combination of treatments has been designed to address this issue. If there is no excess sagging of the skin, as may occur with aging then filler and Botox may be of benefit.
Face Lift Addressing the Neck
If, however, there is significant redundancy of skin then a deep plane facelift addressing the neck may be warranted before any nonsurgical intervention. Botox in very dilute superficial injections along the lines has been shown to improve their appearance. Small doses of filler as well in these lines have also been shown to be of great benefit. Bio stimulators such as RF microneedling are also beneficial to producing more collagen.
This process can theoretically thicken the skin and reduce the transverse lines. Of course, once treatment has been initiated we must practice a good skincare regimen to maximize and prolong our results. When we look our best, we usually are feeling our best and present our best selves to the world which can enhance our quality of life.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
