Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medical Institution now say that botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox^®, BTX-A) has replaced surgical procedures for correcting facial changes that occur later in life. These include down-turned corners of the mouth, sagging and uneven eyebrows, and bulging appearance under the eyes. Botox is also becoming popular for treating platysmal banding and improving jaw line definition.

Platysmal bands

Platysmal bands are caused by aging and thickening of two edges of the neck muscles that run up the front left and right sides of your neck mid-line, all the way to your chin.

Botox® Cosmetic for Neck Bands photos of Dr. Binstock’s patients**

How botulinum toxin works

BTX-A can be used as stand-alone treatment to restore a more youthful neck contour and complement Kybella^® injections for double chin. While Syringe Therapy using Botox does not tighten excess skin, Kybella can help reduce some skin excess. Neither takes the place of a surgical neck lift which is needed when there is marked skin excess.

BTX-A relaxes the target muscles by preventing release of acetylcholine, the chemical messenger that causes skeletal muscles to contract.

The response is apparent within a few days and lasts on average 3 to 6 months.

The bottom line

Improving the aging appearance of the neck is critically important in facial rejuvenation. As we get older, neck bands form, skin looseness increases, and lines in the neck to become accentuated, imparting an aged appearance.

Modest doses of BTX-A can soften the appearance of the vertical platysma bands. It’s a low-risk option for people seeking to improve their appearance.

You can learn more about your BTX-A options at Aesthetic Dermatology and Skin Cancer: Jeffrey H. Binstock M.D., here. For a consultation and more information about our approach to using botulinum toxin and Kybella to enhance your attractiveness, contact Dr. Binstock and S. Cullinane PA-C. Call our Mill Valley call (415) 383-5475.