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The platysma muscle is a thin sheet of muscle that runs from the collarbones to the lower face. It is responsible for enabling movement in the lower face and contributing to a range of facial expressions. Age, genetics, and muscle activity can cause the platysma muscle to weaken, leading to a sagging neck or turkey neck. While cosmetic surgery is an option to tighten the platysma muscle, it is expensive and carries risks of complications. A cheaper and safer alternative is to perform exercises that strengthen the platysma muscle, such as neck stretches and tongue exercises.
How to Release Platysma Muscle
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | The platysma muscle is found at the front of the neck, under the chin, and extends from the upper portion of the chest to the lower jaw and part of the face. |
| Function | The platysma muscle contributes to producing a myriad of facial expressions and enables movement in the lower face. |
| Ageing | Ageing of the platysma muscle can lead to thinning and shortening, causing the appearance of wrinkly skin on the neck, also known as "turkey neck". |
| Exercises | Neck exercises can help tighten and firm the platysma muscle, reducing sagging and improving jawline definition. Examples include tilting the head slowly from side to side and front to back, and tongue exercises that involve sticking the tongue out and reaching it down towards the chin. |
| Botox | Botox injections can help reduce the appearance of platysmal bands by relaxing the muscles in the neck, leading to a Nefertiti lift. |
| Surgery | Neck lift surgery or platysmaplasty can tighten the platysma muscle, remove excess fat, and improve the contour and youthfulness of the neck. |
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What You'll Learn
Neck lift surgery (platysmaplasty)
Neck lift surgery, or platysmaplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the neck and jawline by tightening the skin and muscles at their weakest points. It is often sought by people who wish to reduce the signs of ageing or weight loss on their necks, such as sagging skin, horizontal bands of skin (neck bands), and excess fat.
The platysma muscle, located at the front of the neck under the chin, can separate into rope-like bands with age, causing the skin to wrinkle and sag. This condition is commonly known as "turkey neck". Platysmaplasty surgery works by lifting and tightening the platysma muscle, minimising neck bands and creating a smoother, more contoured, and youthful appearance. The procedure may also be combined with other techniques such as submental liposuction, supraplatysmal fat reduction, or subplatysmal lipectomy to enhance the results.
During the surgery, the doctor will make incisions below the corners of the mouth to tighten the skin and muscle, and trim any excess skin. While platysmaplasty is considered a less invasive option than a full facelift, it is still a surgical procedure with potential risks and side effects. These can include pain, swelling, bruising, and infection, and in some cases, blood clots. It is important for patients to carefully follow their surgeon's post-surgery instructions and alert the surgical team immediately if any problems or complications arise.
The results of a neck lift surgery can last for years, but it is important to note that it does not prevent future age-related changes. To maintain the results, patients should follow care instructions, avoid smoking, and protect their skin from the sun. Additionally, patients should be aware that the experience level of the surgeon and the interprofessional team can contribute to better outcomes and a safer procedure.
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Botox and dermal fillers
Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a popular cosmetic treatment for the platysma muscle, which is a thin superficial muscle covering the entire neck and lower part of the face. As we age, the platysma muscle can become more prominent and visible, contributing to an ageing appearance in the neck. The platysma muscle is responsible for pulling down the corners of the mouth, creating the appearance of vertical lines or "bands" on the neck. Botox works by temporarily paralysing muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and bands. When treating the platysma muscle, Botox injections target and relax the muscle, smoothing out the vertical neck bands. This non-surgical approach is minimally invasive and can significantly improve the appearance of the neck.
Botox treatments for the platysma muscle can be combined with dermal fillers for a comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dermal fillers can help to address skin laxity, which may be present along with platysmal bands. By combining Botox and dermal fillers, individuals can achieve a more youthful and uniform neck contour. It is important to consult with specialists to determine the best combination of treatments for optimal results.
The effects of Botox for the neck typically last between three to six months, after which regular follow-up treatments may be required to maintain the desired results. Side effects of neck Botox injections may include mild bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Rarely, patients may experience headaches or temporary weakness in nearby muscles. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss the risks and potential side effects with a qualified healthcare provider before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the complexity of the muscle anatomy in the lower face increases the likelihood of causing significant side effects. Thus, it is essential to have a good understanding of the anatomy and seek experienced practitioners for Botox treatments in this area. Overall, Botox and dermal fillers can be effective in releasing the platysma muscle and enhancing the appearance of the neck and lower face.
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Platysmal band exercises
Platysmal bands are caused by the ageing and thickening of two edges of the neck muscles. They are a natural part of the ageing process, but can also be caused by genetics, muscle activity, and excessive exercise. While platysmal bands do not pose any health risks, they are a cosmetic concern for some.
- Lie on your back on a firm surface, with your head hanging slightly over the side. Exhale and slowly lift your chin toward your chest. Hold the contraction for a few seconds, then relax your head back to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 10 times, increasing repetitions as your neck muscles strengthen.
- Stand or sit with your shoulders relaxed, facing forward. Place your lower lip over your upper lip and tilt your head back, feeling the stretch along the sides of your jaw and the front of your neck. Stretch until you can see the ceiling and hold this position for several seconds. Slowly return to the starting position. Perform 10 repetitions, working up to three sets in a row.
- Use your tongue to help strengthen your platysma muscle. Sit up straight and open your mouth as far as you can without discomfort. Stick your tongue out, then reach it down towards your chin. Hold for three to five seconds, then relax. Begin with 10 repetitions and work up to three sets in a row.
It is important to be aware of neck tension while exercising and to try to keep the neck muscles relaxed as much as possible. To prevent platysmal bands from forming, it is recommended to watch yourself in the mirror when you work out, so you can relax your neck when it tenses.
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Double chin exercises
A double chin, or submental fat, is a layer of fat that accumulates below the chin or around the neck area. While it is commonly associated with weight gain, anyone can have a double chin. Other causes include genetics, aging, and loose skin.
If your double chin is due to excess body fat, it should reduce as you reach a healthy body composition. Most experts suggest losing 1lb of weight per week. Dieting alone may not be enough, but it can contribute to overall weight loss, which may help reduce fat in the chin area. Cardiovascular exercises such as running, brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can help burn calories and contribute to overall fat loss, which can indirectly reduce fat around the chin.
If your double chin is due to genetics or loose skin, it might not go away, even if you're at a healthy body weight and body fat percentage. Nonetheless, exercises that tone the muscles and tissues surrounding your facial skin can help. These exercises can be easily done at home and may show results in a month if done regularly.
- Using a simple tennis or cricket ball, place it under your chin. Then, move your chin down by pressing your skin against the ball. Do this for 25-30 repetitions regularly to see visible results.
- Look towards the ceiling and tilt your head backward. Stretch the area under your chin by puckering your lips as if you were kissing the ceiling. Return to the starting position. Repeat as necessary.
- Stick your tongue out as far as you can while looking directly ahead. Lift your tongue towards your nose. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then relax your tongue. Repeat as necessary.
- Make a fish face with both your lips joined and pushed forward, as if you were pouting. Now, push your pout to the left, return to the centre, and then push to the right. Repeat 10 times.
- Keeping your face straight, move your lower jaw as far forward as you can, along with raising your chin. Return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Please note that some sources claim that facial exercises strengthen the platysma muscle and may worsen the appearance of a double chin. Before beginning any new workout routine, always check with your doctor.
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Causes of platysmal bands
Platysmal bands are the vertical cords that appear in the neck as one of the first signs of ageing. They are caused by the contractions of the platysma muscle, the most superficial muscle layer in the face and neck. The platysma muscle extends from the upper portion of the chest to the lower jaw and part of the face.
The causes of platysmal bands are still a topic for research. Previously, it was thought that platysmal bands were caused by sagging skin and a loss of muscle tone in the neck. However, a recent study suggested that platysmal bands are actually caused by the muscle activity of the platysma muscle during the ageing process. This muscle activity, combined with the natural ageing process, causes prominent platysmal bands.
Age is a primary cause of platysmal bands. As we age, the skin and muscles of the neck begin to lose elasticity, causing the skin overlying the platysma to weaken and sag. This process, coupled with the natural contractions of the platysma muscle, can make the bands more prominent.
Genetics also play a role in the development of platysmal bands. Genes influence the amount of collagen and elastin our skin produces and the rate at which they decline. Individuals with genes predisposing them to lower production or faster breakdown of these proteins could experience earlier or more pronounced platysmal bands, as their skin has less natural "bounce back" capabilities.
Additionally, certain factors can contribute to the prominence of platysmal bands. Significant weight gain or loss can cause the skin of the neck to stretch or take on a loose appearance, making platysmal bands more noticeable. Exposure to harmful UV rays and smoking can also lead to premature ageing and the development of platysmal bands. Finally, repeated facial expressions, such as frowning or squinting, can cause the platysma muscle to contract, contributing to the formation of platysmal bands.
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Frequently asked questions
The platysma muscle is a thin sheet of muscle that goes from your collarbones to your lower face. It is found at the front of the neck, under the chin.
Platysmal bands are caused by the ageing and thickening of two edges of the neck muscles. Other causes include genetics, muscle activity and lifestyle choices such as smoking and sun exposure.
There are several exercises you can do to release your platysma muscle. One such exercise involves sitting in a straight-backed chair with your shoulders in line with your hips and your ears lined up over your shoulders. Look straight ahead, hold your chin level, open your mouth as wide as you can comfortably without moving your head, stick out your tongue and try to touch your chin. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then relax. Rest for 2 seconds and then repeat this process ten times.
Other treatments for platysmal bands include non-invasive cosmetic procedures such as Botox and dermal fillers, as well as surgery.
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