Platysmal bands

The neck is one of those areas of the body that can start to betray our age. Physiological changes combined with our natural muscularity can combine to make certain characteristics more obvious, which can be a source of concern for some patients.

Neck platysmal bands are a very common feature of the ageing process. Here we explain what they are, what causes them and the non-invasive treatment options available.

What are Platysmal bands?

The platysma muscle is a wide, thin sheet of muscle fibres, which spans from your upper chest at your collarbone upward through the front of your neck, attaching to the skin and connective tissue in your lower face and cheeks.

The action of the platysma muscle contracting through talking, eating and facial expression can cause ‘platysmal bands’.  These bands are two strips of muscle that run vertically down both sides of the neck.

What causes platysmal bands?

Platysmal bands are a natural part of ageing, but can become more prominent for some individuals.

The skin naturally loses elasticity as we age. There is a reduction in collagen production, which gives skin its youthful firmness. This process, along with our genetics, can cause the skin overlying the platysma muscle to appear thinner and it may sag, so that the vertical bands of muscle are more obvious.

How to prevent platysmal bands

Platysmal bands are difficult to prevent because they are caused by a number of factors such as genetics and natural muscularity.

Muscle activity, when we eat, talk and express ourselves facially, uses the platysma muscle.

Some forms of strenuous exercise may cause more tension and muscle activity in the neck region that could contribute to platysmal bands. One way to manage this is to be aware of neck tension when exercising, and try to relax the neck muscles.

How to get rid of platysmal bands

Platysmal band surgery is an invasive approach to treating this common issue. However, there are much gentler, non-surgical options that are very effective at treating platysmal bands when they are of concern from an aesthetic perspective.

Botox for platysmal bands

Botox is widely recognised as a gentle, successful approach to reducing the appearance of platysmal bands.

When injected into carefully targeted areas in the platysma muscle, botox releases the tension caused by repetitive muscle contractions.

The outcome is the relaxing and softening of the neck area, which improves the overall appearance of the skin along both the vertical bands and the horizontal ‘bracelet’ lines that are also the result of neck ageing.

Botox for platysmal bands before and after

This video shows one of our patients whose platysmal bands were significantly reduced through botox. Here you will see the carefully targeted, yet gentle approach to treatment.

General neck rejuvenation

There are a number of treatments that we offer that can rejuvenate the neck and décolletage area.

For example, dermal fillers are often used in combination with platysmal bands botox treatment to restore volume to the neck area. They gently plump out deeper lines, resulting in a smoother appearance.

Skin boosters are also highly effective at restoring lost volume to targeted areas of the lower face, neck and décolletage. Their main ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring chemical that the body uses to retain water in the skin to support both collagen and elastin.

Your practitioner will recommend the best approach for your skin type and desired outcome.

Frequently asked questions

What are platysmal bands?

Platysmal bands are formed by two strips of muscle that run vertically down both sides of the neck.

What causes platysmal bands?

The natural ageing process along with the action of the platysma muscle contracting through talking, eating and facial expression causes these bands.

Are platysmal bands preventable?

Platysmal bands are a natural part of the ageing process. Their prominence depends on an individual’s genetics and muscularity.

How can you get rid of platysmal bands?

Botox relaxes the platysmal muscle in targeted areas, to reduce the tension and appearance of platysmal bands. Dermal fillers are often used as a partner treatment with botox to optimise results.

How long do results last?

The resulting effects of botox treatment for platysmal bands usually lasts from between three and five months.

After treatment, how quickly can I return to daily activities?

The treatment that we offer for platysmal bands is virtually painless and only takes around 15 minutes.

Following treatment, patients can immediately continue as normal. Your practitioner will ensure you are aware of any aftercare requirements.

Book your appointment

If you would like to find out more about how our expert practitioners at Melior Clinics can help you to rejuvenate the skin around your neck and face, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 0330 024 1300 or email info@meliorclinics.co.uk. Alternatively, book online for your free initial consultation.