Cosmetic Treatment for Sagging Skin on Neck
- Robert M Peppercorn, M.D.
Question
I'm in my early 50s and I like the results I've gotten from Botox and fillers. However, my neck looks old and dry, and the skin is starting to sag. Is there anything I can do (short of a neck lift) to improve it?
Answer
The most popular treatment for the sagging skin of the neck is localized tumescent liposuction. After insertion of local anesthesia, small suction instruments are inserted under the skin. These metal cannulas are hooked up to a suction pump. As the cannulas move back and forth under the skin removing tiny amounts of fats cell, they create inflammation or small injuries under the skin. The irritation under the skin causes the sagging skin to contract and shrink, resulting in less loose skin. This is all done with no cutting and no skin removal, and the procedure does not require general anesthesia. Most patients love the results.
Although neck and face-lifting surgery often offers results more striking than with tumescent liposuction, plastic surgery is much more expensive than liposuction, takes longer to heal, and has more potential side effects. If you are considering one of these procedures, it is always a good idea to get consultation appointments from two doctors before you sign the consent form.
Some doctors claim that various lasers or heat devices will tighten sagging neck skin. Unfortunately, these non-invasive techniques offer minimal improvement and create a great deal of patient dissatisfaction.




