As you are packing away Thanksgiving for another year, why not make plans to say goodbye to your turkey neck at the same time? Submental fat can develop underneath the chin, giving you the “turkey neck” appearance, making you look older and even heavier than you feel. Now, an innovative injectable cosmetic procedure can eliminate that submental fat with minimal discomfort and downtime, allowing you to say goodbye to your turkey neck for good.
What is a “Turkey Neck”?
Turkey neck, often referred to as submental fat or a double chin, is a common concern that can affect both men and women as they age. This condition is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat beneath the chin, loose neck skin, and weakened neck muscles, all of which contribute to a sagging or less defined appearance. The cervicomental angle, the area where the bottom of the jaw meets the neck, can lose its sharpness, making the neck and chin look less sculpted. Fortunately, there are a variety of procedures available to address turkey neck, ranging from non-invasive injectable treatments to more comprehensive surgical procedures. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine which treatment will help you achieve a smoother, more youthful neck and jawline.
Causes of Turkey Neck
Several factors can contribute to the development of turkey neck. Aging is a primary cause, as the skin and neck muscles naturally lose elasticity and strength over time, leading to sagging and the appearance of a double chin. Genetics also play a significant role as some people are simply more prone to storing excess fat in the submental area, regardless of their overall body mass. Weight gain can further accentuate the accumulation of fat under the chin, while certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, may cause swelling in the neck and worsen its appearance. Understanding these underlying causes is essential for selecting the most effective treatment to restore a firmer, more defined neck and chin.
The Kybella Difference: FDA-Approved Injectable Treatment
Kybella is an FDA approved injectable treatment that was approved by the FDA for the treatment of submental fat. The active ingredient in Kybella is synthetic deoxycholic acid, a man-made version of a substance naturally produced by the body to aid in the absorption of fat.
When the substance is administered via injection directly into the pocket of fat under the chin, it destroys the fat cells so that they can be eliminated by the body. Kybella is indicated for the improvement of moderate to severe fat below the chin. The procedure offers dramatic improvement in the jaw and neckline after just 1-3 treatment sessions. Proper injection site selection is important for both safety and effectiveness.
What to Expect
The Kybella treatment is performed at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery on an outpatient basis. You will be given a topical numbing cream prior to the injections to ensure your comfort during the procedure. The injections, which are made using a very fine needle, are strategically placed in multiple areas underneath the chin in order to produce even and consistent results. Most patients will receive up to 30 injections before the treatment is over.
After the procedure, you may find the treatment area is tender and swollen. Side effects such as bruising, pain, and swelling are common. Serious side effects, such as nerve injury or allergic reaction, are rare but possible and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
If you are taking blood thinners, inform your doctor before undergoing the procedure to help prevent complications. Some patients choose to spend the rest of the day at home, although you can return to regular activities right away if you are feeling up to it. Swelling will persist for a number of days, but you will likely find it subsides completely within about a week after your treatment. Most patients find that subsequent treatments are accompanied by less pain and swelling than that initial procedure.
Permanent Results
Once the injections are completed, the deoxycholic acid goes to work destroying the fat cells in the treatment area. Kybella can help get rid of excess fat under the chin, and those fat cells can then be permanently eliminated through the body’s own lymphatic system. Over time, the submental fat will dissolve away, giving you a more sculpted, defined jawline.
Because the fat cells are permanently depleted, your Kybella results are considered permanent. Most patients achieve their desired results after a series of treatments. However, if you gain a significant amount of weight after treatment, fat may return to the area. Additionally, aging can begin to take its toll over time once again, and you may need another treatment in the future to extend your positive results.
Kybella Alternatives
While Kybella is an excellent solution for a double chin and turkey neck, it is not the only procedure available that treats neck fullness and laxity. At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we also offer Renuvion Skin Tightening to help tighten lax skin.
Laser treatment is another non-invasive option for tissue tightening in the neck area, helping to improve skin firmness and contour with minimal downtime. Botox injections, manufactured by Allergan Aesthetics, can be used to treat vertical bands in the neck by relaxing the underlying muscles. These cosmetic procedures are performed by board-certified plastic surgeons who can help determine the most appropriate approach for your needs.
For patients seeking a more definitive and long-lasting result, a neck lift is a surgical option performed by experienced plastic surgeons. Plastic and reconstructive surgery encompasses a range of surgeries, including neck lifts and other procedures, to address turkey necks and achieve a youthful appearance. While non-invasive options offer less downtime and lower risk, invasive options like surgery may be recommended for certain cases to achieve optimal results.
Schedule a Consultation
Don’t let that turkey neck follow you into Christmas. Contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery today at 855-338-0261 to find out if Kybella is the right treatment for you.
