What Helps Turkey Neck? 12 Proven Ways to Treat and Prevent It

Turkey neck, the loose, saggy skin under the chin and on the neck, is a common sign of aging As we get older, skin loses elasticity and collagen Gravity also takes its toll, causing skin to droop. Fat loss in the face and neck area or weak neck muscles can also contribute to turkey neck.

While turkey neck is normal as we age, many people find it unsightly and want to treat it. Luckily there are many nonsurgical and surgical options to tighten firm and rejuvenate the delicate skin on the neck and under the chin area.

In this article, we’ll explore 12 proven ways to treat and prevent turkey neck without surgery. We’ll also look at surgical options in case you want more dramatic, longer-lasting results.

Nonsurgical Treatments for Turkey Neck

Skincare

An effective skincare routine is the first line of defense against turkey neck. Look for products containing ingredients that boost collagen production and firm and hydrate the skin. Retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides are all great options.

Apply creams and serums specifically made for the neck and décolletage, as the skin here is thinner and more fragile than on the face. Massage products in an upward, outward motion to counteract sagging.

Sun protection is also key, as UV rays break down collagen and elastin over time. Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen to your neck and chest daily.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing uses focused beams of light to remove outer layers of skin. This stimulates collagen growth and tightens skin. Several treatments are usually needed, but the results can be dramatic.

Two common laser treatments for turkey neck are carbon dioxide and Erbium lasers. Downtime is around 1-2 weeks

Ultherapy

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep within the skin. The ultrasound also heats the tissue, which causes an immediate tightening effect. Several treatments may be required, spaced 1-2 months apart. There is no downtime with Ultherapy.

Microneedling

During microneedling tiny needles are used to puncture the skin, creating micro-injuries. This stimulates collagen and elastin production. It also increases absorption of skincare products. Microneedling is usually done in a series of 4-6 treatments administered 4-6 weeks apart. Minimal downtime is required.

Radiofrequency Microneedling

This combines radiofrequency energy with microneedling to enhance results. The radiofrequency heats tissue deep under the skin to stimulate tightening and collagen regeneration. Several sessions are needed to see optimal results. Mild redness may occur but there is no significant downtime required.

Botox

Over time, the platysma muscles in the neck can weaken and separate. Botox injections can relax the muscles and smooth out vertical bands that occur. For preventative purposes, some doctors recommend starting Botox before bands appear, usually in the mid 30s. Repeat injections every 3-4 months are needed to maintain results.

Kybella Injections

Kybella (deoxycholic acid) dissolves fat under the chin. A series of injections breaks down fat cells in the area. It is most effective for small pockets of fat causing a double chin look. Multiple treatments spaced 1 month apart are usually needed. There may be some swelling and discomfort for a few days after each session.

CoolSculpting

This non-invasive fat reduction treatment uses extremely cold temperatures to destroy fat cells. A device is placed on the neck/chin area for about 35 minutes during each session. Fat cells freeze and die off over the next few weeks. More than one treatment may be needed. Mild redness and numbness can occur but there is no downtime.

Exercises for Turkey Neck

Targeted exercises to strengthen the platysma muscles can improve muscle tone in the neck area. While exercises alone won’t eliminate loose neck skin, they can help create a more defined, contoured appearance when done consistently.

Try adding these effective neck exercises to your routine 2-3 times per week:

• Neck stretches – Gently tilt head back, forward and side to side. Hold each stretch for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times.

• Chin tucks – Lift your head so your chin points to the ceiling. Hold for 5 seconds. Slowly tuck your chin in toward your chest. Hold 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

• Neck rotations – Slowly rotate your head in a full circle 10 times clockwise, 10 times counter-clockwise. Keep your chin level.

• Isometric holds – Place your index and middle fingers on your chin. Press your head forward. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Medical Procedures for Turkey Neck

More dramatic, longer-lasting options for turkey neck include:

Neck Lift Surgery

A neck lift (platysmaplasty) removes excess fat and skin while tightening underlying muscles. Incisions are made under the chin or behind the ears. Results are immediate and last 5-10 years on average. Recovery takes 1-2 weeks. Scarring may occur but can be hidden by hair and natural creases.

Lower Face/Neck Liposuction

Liposuction removes excess fat deposits under the chin and on the neck. Small incisions are made and a cannula is inserted to suction out fat. Mild discomfort, swelling and bruising may occur for 1-2 weeks after. Compression garments are worn during recovery. Results last as long as your weight remains stable.

Laser Lipolysis

This is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional liposuction. A laser fiber is inserted through tiny incisions to melt fat. The liquefied fat is then drained out. Less downtime is required than traditional lipo. Mild redness, swelling and numbness can occur for several days. Long lasting results when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Chin or Jaw Surgery

If misaligned jaws or teeth are contributing to turkey neck, surgery can help. Options like chin implants, sliding genioplasty or jaw realignment surgery can improve facial contours. Several weeks recovery is needed and some numbness or discomfort may occur temporarily.

Prevention is Key

While turkey neck can be treated, prevention starting early is ideal. Protect your neck from sun damage, keep your skin hydrated, maintain a healthy weight and do regular neck exercises.

Avoid extreme weight fluctuations, as this can stretch the skin. Don’t smoke, as it accelerates aging.

Use skincare products containing antioxidants, peptides and retinoids on your neck. Start preventative Botox in your 30s or 40s before neck bands and wrinkles form.

With diligent neck care and healthy lifestyle habits, surgical treatments may not be necessary. But if turkey neck does occur, today’s nonsurgical and surgical options offer great solutions for turning back the clock and restoring a youthful, defined neck and jawline.