Neck

The neck supports the head and its appearance is influenced by skin, underlying structures, and the platysma muscle, which contributes to movement and transition between the face and neck. The neck connects to the chin and jawline. Changes in the neck over time may influence contour, definition and the appearance of neck lines, often referred to as necklace lines and neck (platsymal) bands.

A neck consultation at MD Cosmetic Nurse focuses on assessing your individual neck bands, lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, and skin texture for natural-looking outcomes. Aesthetic ultrasound may used to 'vascular map' and identify relevant arteries.

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Anatomy of the Neck

The neck is composed of several anatomical layers, including the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and underlying muscles.

The platysma muscle is a broad, sheet-like muscle that extends from the lower face down toward the collarbone. It is a depressor muscle that pulls down when contracted and contributes to the appearance of the neck and jawline transition.

Platysmal bands are vertical lines formed by the platysma muscle that run from the jawbone to the collarbone. Neck bands are visible during muscle contraction and may become more visible with age.

Together, these anatomical components influence the appearance of the neck and how it may change over time.

Skin and Movement changes

The skin of the neck is thinner and may be more susceptible to creasing and creating 'necklace lines' - horizontal bands that form around the neck from the head being in a downward position over time. Environmental factors can influence skin texture and how the area appears.

Changes in skin quality may contribute to how the neck looks over time.

Muscle activity and movement

The neck is involved in a range of movements, including head position and facial expression. Over time, repeated movement and muscle contraction may influence how the skin and neck bands appear.

What are Platysmal Bands?

Platysmal bands are vertical lines that can appear on the neck. They are formed by the platysma muscle when contracted. Over time, this muscle may become more visible due to changes in skin quality and muscle activity, creating the appearance of vertical banding in the neck.

Relationship to surrounding structures

The neck is closely connected to the chin and jawline. Changes in the neck may influence how defined these areas appear, particularly from side profile.

Understanding this relationship helps provide a more complete view of lower face balance.

Other contributing factors

Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, posture, and environmental factors may influence how the neck appears over time.

Learn more about how the neck can change over time on our facial aging page.

How the neck is assessed

A neck consultation at MD Cosmetic Nurse focuses on assessing your individual neck bands, fine lines and wrinkles known as 'necklace lines', skin laxity, and skin texture. During some consultations, aesthetic ultrasound is used to 'vascular map' and identify relevant arteries. Rather than a standard approach, each consultation begins with a thorough facial assessment to understand your unique anatomy and what your neck concerns are. Neck consultations may include consideration of skin quality, facial structure, and wrinkle formation, depending on individual concerns.

Common concerns discussed during a neck consultation include:

• Loss of volume over time
• Neck (platysmal) bands
• "Tech neck"
• Skin laxity
• "Necklace lines" - horizontal lines across the neck
• Skin texture
• Natural-looking enhancement that complements your features

Why choose MD Cosmetic Nurse for a neck consultation?

Choosing the right practitioner for your aesthetic consultation is an important decision. All assessments at MD Cosmetic Nurse are tailored to each individual, and are consultation-led. This means your individual concerns, anatomy, and goals are discussed in detail before any treatment is considered. Michelle is centred on professionalism, ethical, evidence-based practice, and patient safety.

• Experienced registered nurse with over 12 years experience performing aesthetic procedures.
• Master of Nursing with a year-long capstone project on complications with aesthetic procedures.
• A natural-looking, balanced approach for subtle outcomes.
• Aesthetic ultrasound use in select consultations to provide insight for your individual anatomy.
• Consultations are conducted in professional, medical clinical environments inside specialist plastic surgeon-owned clinics in Surry Hills and Mosman, as well as Penrith.

Book a consultation for a detailed facial assessment to determine suitability for your individual goals. Individual results vary from person-to-person and from treatment-to-treatment. A consultation is required and does not guarantee treatment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The neck supports the skin to the jawline of the lower face and contributes to overall profile and lower face appearance.

Changes may occur due to shifts in skin quality, muscle activity, head position, underlying support, lifestyle factors, and natural ageing processes.

The neck and jawline are closely connected, and changes in one area may influence the appearance of the other.

Platysmal bands are vertical lines that appear on the neck from the platysma muscle. Over time, these neck bands may become more prominent and visible with age.

"Tech neck" is the term used to describe horizontal lines across the neck that can occur due to looking down at phones, laptops, computers, and tablets for long periods of time.

"Necklace lines" is a term used to describe horizontal wrinkles that form around the neck due to their necklace-like appearance of rings around the neck.