Let’s talk about the dreader “Turkey neck.”
“Turkey neck” refers to the appearance of loose skin or excess fat in the submental region (under the chin). This can occur with age as collagen production slows and as fibers connecting the skin to the neck muscles weaken. The appearance of a turkey neck can also happen if excess fat gathers in the submental area.
While some cases of “turkey neck” require a surgical neck lift or neck liposuction, mild-to-moderate skin laxity or fat gathering may be resolved with the following non-invasive options.
Coolscuplting Elite is a fat reduction method that targets fat in body areas that are more challenging to remove through diet and exercise. It works by freezing fat cells, killing and breaking them down in the process. These dead cells are then naturally removed by your body’s lymphatic system. Because there is no penetration and the technology specifically targets fat cells, all other cells are unaffected. Depending on your goals and the area being treated, each treatment can be 35–60 minutes.
Sculpsure is a laser treatment that can eliminate small amounts of fat from the flanks, back, abdomen, and thighs The FDA has now approved SculpSure to be used on submental fat, which is the type of fat that forms under the chin and contributes to “turkey neck”. A specialized applicator was designed to provide treatment to the contours located under the chin and on the neck.SculpSure’s body contouring technology is able to target and destroy these fat cells without affecting the skin’s surface, without being invasive and so no downtime is needed. SculpSure’s non-surgical 25-minute procedure uses light-based technology to permanently destroy up to 24% of treated fat in the problem area. Over time, these damaged fat cells are naturally absorbed and removed from the body, with results seen as quickly as six weeks, and optimal results are typically seen at 12 weeks.
Evoke is a skin-tightening and fat-burning device which can safely and effectively treat the neck area. Evoke uses bipolar radiofrequency and AI to precisely deliver energy to the cheeks, neck, and jawline. Evoke is a game-changer because it goes where no other non-invasive cosmetic facial rejuvenation procedure can—deep into the dermal layer and into the Fibro Septal Network (FSN), the fibrous bands that give your skin structure and support. With its ability to maintain a constant temperature. Evoke remodels the dermis and subdermal tissue to deliver more defined facial characteristics and fat reduction on the neck and face.
Kybella is the first and only deoxycholic acid injection that is used to reduce submental fullness, or “double chin,” in adults. The active ingredient in Kybella is synthetic deoxycholic acid, which is a naturally occurring molecule in the body. Deoxycholic acid aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys fat cells, resulting in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin. Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal.
While these and other options are great for minimizing turkey neck, Dr. Levine will determine which treatment will bring you to your goal during your initial consultation. In extreme cases, such as severe skin laxity, a neck lift or neck liposuction is necessary. To start the process, call us at 212-517-9400.