The neck is often one of the first areas to show signs of aging, with sagging skin, wrinkles, and the dreaded "turkey neck" becoming a common concern. While surgical neck lifts have been a popular option in the past, advancements in non-surgical treatments have made it possible to achieve a rejuvenated neck without going under the knife. In this article, we will explore the top non-surgical neck lifts of 2021, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about turning back the clock on neck aging.
#1: Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten loose skin on the neck. By stimulating collagen production deep within the skin, Ultherapy can gradually lift and tighten sagging skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and achieving a more youthful neck. This treatment is FDA-approved and has minimal downtime, making it a popular choice for those looking for non-surgical neck rejuvenation.
Ultherapy works by delivering focused ultrasound energy to the deep layers of the skin, causing a natural response that triggers the production of new collagen. Over time, this collagen regeneration lifts and tightens the skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance. The procedure itself takes around 30-90 minutes, depending on the treatment area, and most patients only require one session to see results.
While the results of Ultherapy are not as dramatic as those of a surgical neck lift, many patients appreciate the more natural-looking and subtle improvement. It is important to note that the results vary from person to person, and additional treatments may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
#2: PDO Thread Lift
The PDO thread lift is another non-surgical option for neck rejuvenation, leveraging the use of dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten loose skin. PDO (polydioxanone) threads have been used for many years in surgery and are now gaining popularity in aesthetic treatments. These threads are inserted into the skin, creating a supportive framework that lifts sagging tissue and stimulates collagen production.
The PDO thread lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the threads are inserted through a small needle or cannula. Once the threads are in place, they can be adjusted to achieve the desired lift. Over time, the threads dissolve completely, but the results can last up to 12-18 months due to the collagen stimulation they initiate.
Patients typically experience slight swelling, bruising, or redness immediately after the procedure, but these side effects usually subside within a few days. The PDO thread lift is a versatile treatment that can be customized to address specific concerns, such as sagging jowls, double chin, or the formation of neck bands.
#3: Radiofrequency Microneedling
Radiofrequency microneedling is another effective non-surgical option for neck rejuvenation. This treatment combines the benefits of traditional microneedling with the use of radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
The procedure involves the use of a device with tiny needles that create micro-injuries on the skin's surface. Simultaneously, radiofrequency energy is delivered deep into the skin, promoting collagen production and remodeling. The combination of microneedling and radiofrequency amplifies the overall rejuvenating effects, resulting in a firmer and more lifted neck appearance.
Radiofrequency microneedling is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, with minimal downtime. Patients may experience mild swelling or redness for a few days after the treatment, but these side effects typically resolve on their own. Multiple sessions are often recommended to achieve optimal results, and the outcome continues to improve over several months as collagen remodeling takes place.
#4: Kybella
While not a traditional neck lift procedure, Kybella has gained recognition as an effective non-surgical treatment for submental fullness, commonly known as a double chin. Submental fullness can contribute to an aged and less defined neck appearance, and Kybella offers a targeted solution by permanently reducing fat underneath the chin.
Kybella is an injectable treatment that contains deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat cells beneath the chin, Kybella destroys these cells, resulting in a more sculpted and contoured neck and jawline. The treatment typically involves a series of sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, and results gradually develop over time.
It is important to note that Kybella is not suitable for all patients, and a thorough consultation with a qualified provider is necessary to determine candidacy. Some patients may experience temporary swelling, bruising, or numbness in the treatment area, but these side effects usually resolve on their own.
#5: Injectable Fillers
Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based products, can be a valuable tool in non-surgical neck rejuvenation. These fillers can add volume, improve skin texture, and provide hydration to the neck, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
During the procedure, the filler is injected into specific areas of the neck to restore volume and smooth out wrinkles. The treatment is quick, and the results are immediate, making it a popular choice for those seeking instant improvement. While the effects of injectable fillers are temporary and can last anywhere from 6 to 18 months, regular touch-up sessions can maintain the desired outcome.
It is important to choose a skilled practitioner who has experience in neck rejuvenation with injectable fillers to ensure safe and natural-looking results. Additionally, patients may experience some swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites, but these side effects are typically minimal and resolve quickly.
#6: Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing treatments are highly effective for improving skin texture, reducing wrinkles, and tightening loose skin on the neck. Fractional laser technology works by creating controlled micro-injuries on the skin's surface, stimulating the body's natural healing response and promoting collagen production.
There are different types of lasers available for neck rejuvenation, including ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the outer layers of the skin, while non-ablative lasers target deeper layers without damaging the surface. The choice of laser depends on various factors, including the patient's skin type, desired outcome, and downtime tolerance.
After a laser resurfacing treatment, patients may experience redness, swelling, and mild discomfort. The skin will gradually heal, revealing a smoother and more youthful appearance. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results, and the outcome continues to improve over several months as collagen remodeling occurs.
#7: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes the body's own healing properties to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin. This treatment involves drawing a small amount of the patient's blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood.
The platelet-rich plasma, which contains growth factors and other healing components, is then injected into the skin, triggering a regenerative response. PRP therapy can improve skin texture, tighten loose skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
PRP therapy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, as it uses the patient's own blood, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Mild swelling, redness, and bruising may occur after the treatment, but these side effects are temporary and resolve within a few days. Multiple sessions may be recommended to achieve the desired outcome, and maintenance treatments can help prolong the results.
#8: Thermage
Thermage is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of sagging skin on the neck. The procedure delivers controlled heat deep into the skin, causing the existing collagen fibers to contract and stimulating the production of new collagen over time.
Thermage treatments are typically completed in a single session, and the duration depends on the treatment area. The procedure is well-tolerated by most patients, and there is minimal downtime involved. Some individuals may experience temporary redness or swelling after the treatment, but these side effects usually resolve within a few days.
Visible improvements can be seen immediately after the treatment, but the full benefits of Thermage develop gradually as collagen continues to regenerate. Results can last for up to one to two years, and maintenance treatments can help extend the effects.
#9: Non-Surgical Fat Reduction
In some cases, excess fat deposits underneath the chin and on the neck can contribute to an aged and less defined appearance. Non-surgical fat reduction treatments, such as CoolSculpting or SculpSure, can selectively target and eliminate these fat cells without surgery or downtime.
CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to freeze and destroy fat cells, while SculpSure utilizes laser technology to heat and disrupt fat cells. These treatments are typically performed in a series of sessions, and the fat cells are gradually eliminated by the body's natural processes over several weeks.
Non-surgical fat reduction treatments are safe and effective, with minimal discomfort and downtime. Patients may experience some temporary redness, swelling, or bruising in the treatment area, but these side effects usually subside quickly. It is important to note that non-surgical fat reduction treatments are not intended for weight loss but rather for contouring specific areas.
#10: Nonsurgical Neck Lift Combinations
While each of the non-surgical neck lift options mentioned above can produce noticeable results on its own, some individuals may achieve even better outcomes by combining different treatments. A customized approach can target multiple concerns and address various aspects of neck aging simultaneously, resulting in a more comprehensive and transformative rejuvenation.
Combination treatments may involve the use of different technologies, such as ultrasound, radiofrequency, or laser, to achieve optimal lifting and tightening effects. Your provider will assess your unique needs and develop a tailored treatment plan to help you achieve the desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long do the results of non-surgical neck lifts last?
A: The duration of results varies depending on the specific treatment and individual factors. In general, non-surgical neck lifts can provide noticeable improvements that last anywhere from several months to a couple of years. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to prolong the effects.
Q: Are non-surgical neck lift procedures painful?
A: Most non-surgical neck lift procedures involve minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia or topical numbing creams may be used to ensure patient comfort during the treatment. After the procedure, some patients may experience temporary redness, swelling, or bruising, but these side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own.
Q: Who is a good candidate for non-surgical neck lifts?
A: Good candidates for non-surgical neck lifts are individuals who have mild to moderate signs of neck aging, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, or a double chin. It is important to have realistic expectations and be in good overall health. During a consultation, your provider will assess your suitability for the specific treatment options.
Q: Can non-surgical neck lifts replace surgical neck lifts?
A: Non-surgical neck lifts can provide significant improvement in neck appearance without the need for surgery. However, they may not achieve the same level of results as surgical neck lifts in more severe cases of sagging skin or excess fat. It is best to consult with a qualified provider to determine which option is most suitable for your individual needs.
Q: What is the recovery time for non-surgical neck lifts?
A: The recovery time for non-surgical neck lifts varies depending on the specific treatment and the individual's healing process. In general, these procedures involve minimal downtime, and most patients can resume their normal activities immediately or within a few days. Your provider will provide specific post-treatment instructions to ensure optimal healing.
