---
title: "Neck Laxity"
---
## What changes in an aging neck
Three things tend to happen to the neck with time. The skin loosens and starts to hang. A thin sheet of muscle just under the skin, the platysma, can separate into vertical cords you see when you tense your neck. And fat under the chin can collect and sit lower. [1]
Most necks show some mix of the three, and each responds to a different treatment.
### What you might notice
- Loose skin under the chin or down the neck
- Vertical cords that show when you speak or grimace
- A jawline that blurs into the neck
- Horizontal creases across the front of the neck
- 3 changes Loose skin, neck bands and fat under the chin, the three things behind an aging neck. [1]
## Why the neck shows age early
1. Skin loses its spring Over time, skin makes less of the support that keeps it firm, and neck skin starts to hang.
2. Muscle bands separate The platysma muscle can separate into bands that create uneven contours along the neck. [1]
3. Sun and smoking Sun plays a major role in aging skin early, and smoking greatly speeds it up. [2] Necks often miss out on sunscreen.
- Neck bands Botox is approved to improve the look of moderate to severe vertical bands between the jaw and neck. [3]
## Matching the treatment to your neck
If your main concern isA good fitWhat it doesVertical bands, with skin that's still fairly firmBotoxRelaxes the muscle that forms the bands [3]Loose skin, with or without bands and fatA neck liftRemoves excess skin and fat and tightens the neck muscle [1]Mostly fullness under the chinSee our double chin optionsKybella or a neck lift
Your [free consultation](/cosmetic/consultation/) shows you which of these is behind what you see, and what each option can realistically do.
## Where neck laxity shows
AreaWhat you noticeUnder the chinLoose skin, sometimes with fullness [1]Front of the neckVertical bands [1]JawlineA softer line where jaw meets neck [1]Across the neckHorizontal creases
## Real results from patients
- SPF 30+ Daily broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, on your neck as well as your face. [2]
The Paz difference
## A quick fix or a lasting lift
With both Botox and neck lift surgery offered here, you get the option that suits your neck, whether that's a short visit for the bands or a surgical plan for the whole neck. Either way, you'll know exactly what to expect before you decide.
## When to talk to us
### It's a good time if:
- You notice your neck more than your face in photos
- Vertical cords show when you talk or tense your neck
- Loose skin under your chin bothers you
- Scarves and high collars have become a habit
## Caring for your neck
- Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, every day, [2] and take it down to your neck and chest
- If you smoke, stop [2]
- Use your facial moisturizer on your neck, too
- Keep up Botox visits if you choose that route; results are temporary
## Services we offer
Both treat an aging neck, in different ways. Pick one to see how it works.
## What treatment costs
Cost depends on whether Botox or surgery suits your neck. Your consultation is free, and you'll know your plan and its cost before anything happens.
What changesLoose skin, muscle bands, fat under the chin [1]For neck bandsBotox [3]For loose skinA neck lift [1]PreventionDaily sunscreen, no smoking [2]WhereOur Fresno and Visalia offices
## Neck questions, answered
**Q: Can Botox help my neck?**
Yes, for vertical neck bands. It's approved to improve moderate to severe bands between the jaw and neck. [3]
**Q: Will Botox tighten loose skin?**
Botox relaxes muscle, so it helps the bands. Loose skin is best addressed with a neck lift.
**Q: What does a neck lift fix?**
Loose neck skin, neck bands, fat under the chin and jowls. [1]
**Q: Is a neck lift permanent?**
It gives a lasting improvement, but it can't stop aging, so the neck keeps changing slowly. [1]
**Q: Can I prevent a sagging neck?**
You can slow it. Sunscreen on your neck and not smoking make a real difference. [2]
**Q: Do creams work on neck skin?**
Moisturizer keeps skin looking its best, but it won't tighten loose skin or relax neck bands.
## References
[Neck Lift](https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/neck-lift)
[11 ways to reduce premature skin aging](https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/reduce-premature-aging-skin)
[BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA)](https://www.botoxcosmetic.com/)
Content on this page is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Botox Cosmetic is a prescription medicine with temporary results. A neck lift is surgery. Whether either suits you depends on your consultation, and results vary from person to person. Each treatment has its own side effects and risks, explained on its page and at your consultation. Individual results may vary.
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