A sagging neck—commonly referred to as “turkey neck”—can add years to your appearance, even if your facial skin looks smooth and youthful. At Skin Works Medical Spa, we understand how frustrating loose neck skin can be, especially when it’s resistant to skincare products and facial treatments. While there are some helpful non-invasive options, the most effective solution for severe cases often involves surgery.
Here’s what you need to know about what causes turkey neck—and what really works to fix it.
What Is Turkey Neck and Why Does It Happen?
Turkey neck refers to the loose, sagging skin and muscle banding that appears under the chin and along the neck as we age. This happens due to a combination of factors, including:
- Loss of collagen and elastin: As we age, the skin’s support system breaks down, causing it to lose firmness and elasticity.
- Muscle laxity: The platysma muscles (neck muscles) weaken over time, resulting in visible bands and a drooping appearance.
- Fat accumulation: Submental fullness (fat under the chin) weighs down the neck’s appearance and creates folds and bulges.
- Bone structure: A receding chin or underdeveloped jawline may worsen the appearance of loose skin.
Can Exercises Help Turkey Neck?
While neck exercises may slightly improve circulation and muscle tone, they won’t restore collagen or tighten loose skin once significant sagging has developed. Mild prevention strategies include:
- “Chewing” motion: Tilt your head back and mimic chewing to activate jaw muscles.
- “Kissing” the ceiling: Tilt your head back and pucker your lips for 5-second holds.
- Neck lifts: Lie flat with your head off the edge of the bed and gently lift your head upward. Stop immediately if you feel neck strain.
These exercises are not a substitute for medical treatments—but they can be part of a maintenance plan.
Top Treatments for Turkey Neck
✅ 1. Neck Lift Surgery (Platysmaplasty)
For long-term, dramatic improvement, a neck lift is the gold standard. This surgical procedure removes excess skin, tightens underlying muscles, and redefines the jawline. It’s the most effective option for moderate to severe sagging and offers results that last for years. Downtime is typically 10–14 days, and scars are discreetly hidden under the chin or behind the ears.
✅ 2. Submental Liposuction
Ideal for patients with excess fat but good skin elasticity, submental liposuction removes under-chin fat and improves contour. It can be performed alone or combined with a neck lift for a more sculpted result.
✅ 3. Kybella® (Non-Surgical Fat Dissolver)
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable that permanently destroys fat cells under the chin. It’s a great option for mild-to-moderate fullness, though results take several sessions and won’t address skin laxity.
✅ 4. Morpheus8 or Radiofrequency Microneedling
This non-invasive solution uses microneedles and radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen and tighten loose skin. It’s best for mild sagging and works well in combination with injectables or skin care regimens.
✅ 5. Botox® for Platysmal Bands
Botox can relax the vertical neck muscles (platysmal bands) that become more prominent with age. Results last about 3–4 months and are best for early signs of turkey neck.
Prevention Tips
- Wear sunscreen daily, including on your neck and décolleté
- Use medical-grade retinol or peptides to boost collagen
- Maintain a stable weight to avoid skin stretching
- Stay hydrated and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol
Ready for a Neck Transformation?
If creams and facials aren’t cutting it anymore, it may be time to explore a surgical or advanced aesthetic option. At Skin Works Medical Spa, our expert team can evaluate your neck and help determine the best course of action—from injectables and lasers to surgical referral with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
📞 Call us at 844-759-6757 or book your private consultation today and take the first step toward a smoother, younger-looking neckline.