How Can I “Lift” My Neck Without Surgery?

Does your skin feel like it is sagging or losing some of it’s elasticity? Many patients over the age of 40 start to notice a change in the appearance of their neck and lower face, often referred to as “the jowls”.  As we age, collagen loses its strength and gravity will start to pull the skin downward. The collagen protein is what gives skin the youthful appearance of being firm and toned.  One treatment that has proven results for treating these areas, as well as lifting the brow is Ultherapy. 

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to generate a thermal affect under the skin. The thermal affect essentially jumpstarts a repair process that strengthens existing collagen and produces fresh, new collagen deep within the skin. Ultherapy is the only non-invasive treatment approved by the FDA for lifting the skin on the neck, under the chin and brow.  The production of new collagen occurs gradually over time, so results look natural as they become more apparent over six to twelve months. The procedure itself takes only about an hour for most patients, and there is no downtime.

Since Ultherapy works by using ultrasound imaging, we can actually see the layers of tissue allowing us to target very specific areas and ensure the energy is deposited exactly where it will be most effective.  You can view some great before and after photos here.

While comfort levels vary among patients, most find the treatment easily tolerable. The only time discomfort may be experienced is while the ultrasound energy is being delivered.  This sensation is brief and signals that the collagen-building process has been initiated. After the treatment, there may be slight redness for up to an hour or so, and a small percentage of patients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch, but these are mild and temporary.We take measures to make the experience as pleasant as possible which can be discussed during a consultation. Patients will tell us they leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Patients treated with Ultherapy still have fresh young collagen after a year’s time following the procedure, but skin continues to age. Future touch-up treatments can help keep pace with the aging process, which varies by individual. Most patients will return years down the line for these maintenance treatments.  The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment depending on how much laxity they have and their body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and the collagen-building process.

While Ultherapy is not a replacement for a surgical face lift, there are many people who want some lifting but are not ready for surgery, either mentally, physically or financially. There also are younger people who want to “stay ahead of the game” as well as those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery. Scheduling a consultation with one of our providers is a great way to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure and ask any further questions you may have.

Your Neck Needs a Skincare Regimen too!

The neck ages differently than the skin on your face and requires a product specifically formulated to penetrate and treat the delicate area.  Most facial moisturizers will only provide minimal benefits.  The most common signs of aging on the neck include: slackened skin, crepiness, horizontal necklace lines, turkey neck appearance, platysmal bands, fat accumulation and mottled skin appearance.

There are two products we carry in our office that have proven benefits for improving the skin of the neck and decolletage area:

Nectifirm® is an incredible neck cream formulated with peptides and several potent extracts that help skin appear firmer and smoother. It contains a unique blend of Bamboo, English Pea Extract, and Glucosamine, which has been shown to hydrate and tone the skin.

• Helps the skin appear more firm and lifted

• Reduces the appearance of rough, crepey skin

• Lessens the look of fine lines and wrinkles

View other before and after photos here.

Skin Better Science is another line with a great neck treatment.  Their Interfuse Treatment Cream was initially formulated for the face, but new studies have shown significant improvement to the neck area as well. Their unique collagen enhancing formulation drives a specific messenger peptide blend to help skin appear more youthful. The lightweight texture forms a breathable moisturizing barrier to keep skin hydrated and radiant.

Finally, one of the most important steps to ensuring a youthful appearance to the face, neck and chest is to protect yourself from overexposure to the sun.  UVA and UVB rays penetrate the skin to break down collagen and elastin.  So make sure you are applying broad spectrum 30+ SPF to the face, neck and chest DAILY!! 😊