Medically reviewed by Dr. David Biro, MD, PhD – Board-Certified Dermatologist | 30+ Years Experience | Last Updated: April 2026
If you have started noticing loose, sagging skin under your chin or vertical bands running down your neck, you are not alone. “Turkey neck” is the casual name for the loss of neck definition that happens to almost everyone with age. The skin thins, the underlying muscle (called the platysma) weakens and starts to show, and gravity does the rest.
The good news: there are real treatment options. The honest news: not all of them are dermatology procedures, and the right choice depends on how advanced your concern is.
This guide explains the non-surgical options we offer at kalon Dermatology, including Sofwave skin tightening and Botox for muscle banding, and walks through when surgical correction is the right call instead. We are a dermatology practice, so we will be straight with you: if you need a neck lift, we will tell you, and we will point you toward a board-certified facial plastic surgeon.
What Causes Turkey Neck?
Turkey neck develops when the skin and muscles of the neck lose their firmness and begin to sag. Several factors contribute to this process.
Collagen and elastin loss are the primary causes. As we age, our bodies produce less of these proteins that keep skin firm and elastic. The neck area is particularly vulnerable because the skin is thinner than other parts of the face.
Sun exposure accelerates the breakdown of collagen fibers. Years of UV damage weaken the skin’s support structure, leading to premature sagging and wrinkling.
Genetics plays a role in how early and how severely turkey neck develops. Some people are simply predisposed to neck laxity based on their family history.
Weight fluctuations stretch the skin over time. Significant weight loss can leave behind excess skin that no longer has the elasticity to bounce back.
Gravity works against us every day. The constant downward pull on facial tissues eventually causes skin to droop, particularly in areas with less structural support like the neck.
“The sagging of the skin is a naturally occurring process with aging, with the effects of gravity,” explains the clinical team at kalon Dermatology. “Our skin tends to kind of pull down. We lose some of that collagen that helps to hold the skin, and everything starts sagging down.”
Understanding these causes helps explain why topical creams alone rarely solve the problem. Turkey neck involves changes deep within the skin that require treatments capable of reaching those layers.
Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Turkey Neck
Several proven technologies can tighten neck skin and restore a more youthful contour without surgery.
Ultrasound Skin Tightening (Sofwave, Ultherapy) uses focused energy to heat the deeper layers of skin, triggering collagen production. This is considered one of the most effective options for moderate neck laxity. Treatment typically requires one to two sessions, and results develop gradually over several weeks to months.
Radiofrequency Microneedling (Morpheus8) combines tiny needles with radiofrequency energy to remodel skin and stimulate collagen at multiple depths. This treatment works well for both skin tightening and improving texture.
Radiofrequency Treatments (Thermage) deliver heat energy to tighten existing collagen and promote new collagen growth. This option works best for mild to moderate laxity.
Kybella Injections target fat beneath the chin that contributes to the turkey neck appearance. If your concern includes a double chin or excess fullness under the jawline, Kybella can dissolve fat cells permanently.
PDO Thread Lifts use dissolvable threads to physically lift sagging tissue while stimulating collagen production over time. Results are immediate with continued improvement as collagen builds.
The best treatment for you depends on whether your turkey neck is primarily caused by loose skin, excess fat, muscle banding, or a combination of factors. A consultation can help determine which approach will deliver the results you want.
Botox for Platysmal Bands
If your main concern is the vertical cords that show up on your neck when you talk or tense, Botox is the right tool. Botox relaxes the platysma muscle, softens the bands, and gives the front of the neck a smoother appearance.
Best for: Patients whose primary concern is muscle banding rather than skin sagging.
Treatment time: About 15 minutes.
Downtime: None.
Results: Noticeable within 7 to 14 days. Lasts 3 to 4 months.
Maintenance: Quarterly treatments.
Botox does not tighten loose skin. If your skin is the problem, Botox will not fix it. Be honest with your dermatologist about which issue is bothering you most.
Combination Approach
Most patients with early-to-moderate turkey neck benefit from both: Sofwave for the skin tightening and Botox for the platysmal bands. Used together, they address two of the three causes (skin and muscle) without surgery.
How Ultrasound Skin Tightening Works for Neck Rejuvenation
Ultrasound-based treatments like Sofwave have become increasingly popular for neck tightening because they reach the deeper skin layers where collagen is produced.
“Sofwave is a non-invasive form of treatment. There are no needles or chemicals involved,” explains the team at kalon Dermatology. “It is a high-frequency ultrasound device, and it penetrates the skin into the middle layer around the dermis. It creates some of that skin damage or stimulation to that layer, and that forces collagen formation, helping the skin to tighten up and achieve that lifting effect.”
The treatment works by delivering precise thermal energy to the mid-dermis without damaging the surface of your skin. This controlled heating triggers your body’s natural healing response, producing new collagen and elastin fibers that gradually tighten and lift the treated area.
Unlike older technologies that could be quite painful, newer devices like Sofwave incorporate cooling mechanisms that protect the skin surface and improve comfort during treatment. Most patients describe the sensation as warmth with mild discomfort that is easily managed with a topical numbing cream.
Results are not immediate because the treatment relies on your body’s collagen-building process. “It takes a few weeks to a month to get that result,” notes the kalon Dermatology team. Most patients see optimal improvement around three to six months after treatment as new collagen matures and strengthens.
Do Neck Creams and Exercises Actually Work?
If you have tried firming creams, neck exercises, or at-home devices without seeing real improvement, you are not imagining things. These approaches have significant limitations when it comes to actual skin tightening.
Neck creams and serums can improve hydration, texture, and the appearance of fine lines on the surface. Ingredients like retinoids and peptides support skin health and may provide modest improvements over time. However, even the best topical products cannot penetrate deep enough to rebuild the collagen structure that has been lost or tighten skin that has already begun to sag.
Neck exercises may help tone the underlying muscles, but they do not address skin laxity. The platysma muscle in the neck can be strengthened, but this will not tighten loose skin that has lost its elasticity. In some cases, aggressive neck exercises can actually make banding more prominent.
At-home devices like microcurrent tools or LED masks offer minimal energy output compared to professional treatments. While they may provide temporary tightening or improved tone, they cannot deliver the deep tissue heating required to stimulate significant collagen remodeling.
This does not mean skincare is worthless. A good routine with SPF, retinoids, and hydrating ingredients supports overall skin health and can help maintain results after professional treatment. But if you have noticeable sagging or crepiness, professional intervention is typically needed to see real change.
“Patients usually complain about areas around the neck, around the mouth, and folds, wrinkling on the neck area, or the crepiness appearance of the skin,” notes the kalon Dermatology team. These concerns require treatments that work beneath the surface.
How Long Do Non-Surgical Neck Lift Results Last?
The longevity of your results depends on the treatment type, your skin quality, and how well you maintain your skin after treatment.
Ultrasound treatments (Sofwave, Ultherapy) typically provide results lasting one to two years. Because these treatments stimulate your own collagen production, the improvements are real and lasting. However, the aging process continues, so maintenance treatments are recommended to preserve your results.
“The results are permanent because there are no chemicals involved. It’s stimulating your own collagen,” explains the kalon Dermatology team. “But they’re not permanent because you still live on Earth, and the effects of gravity will pull it down. You’ll probably have to repeat the procedure over time.”
Radiofrequency treatments generally last six months to one year, depending on the specific technology and treatment intensity.
Kybella results are permanent when it comes to fat reduction. Once fat cells are destroyed, they do not return. However, significant weight gain can cause remaining fat cells to enlarge.
Thread lifts provide results lasting one to two years as the threads dissolve and collagen takes over to maintain the lift.
Several factors affect how long your results last. Younger patients with better skin quality tend to maintain results longer. Sun protection is critical because UV damage continues to break down collagen. Smoking accelerates skin aging and can diminish treatment benefits. Maintaining a stable weight helps prevent new skin stretching.
Most patients find that scheduling maintenance treatments annually or every 18 months helps them stay ahead of the aging process and maintain their improved neck contour.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
Knowing what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared for your neck tightening treatment.
Before treatment, you will have a consultation to assess your neck laxity, discuss your goals, and determine the best treatment approach. For ultrasound treatments like Sofwave, you should arrive with clean skin and avoid blood-thinning medications if advised.
During treatment, a topical numbing cream is applied to maximize comfort. “There is some discomfort involved. It’s just heat sensation,” notes the kalon Dermatology team. “We use a numbing cream to mitigate that. It’s a strong medical-grade numbing cream that is compounded specifically for us.” For patients who want additional comfort, laughing gas is also available.
Treatment time varies based on the areas being addressed. “The treatment itself takes about an hour, up to 90 minutes for a large area,” according to the clinical team.
After treatment, most patients experience mild redness and warmth that resolves within a few hours to a day. “Side effects include a little redness and irritation, but that usually lasts for a very limited time, maybe a day. There’s no downtime, no visible marks, no injection points.”
You can return to normal activities immediately. There is no need to take time off work or avoid social situations. Some patients even schedule treatments during their lunch break.
Results develop gradually over the following weeks and months. You may notice subtle improvements within two to four weeks, with continued enhancement as collagen production increases. Optimal results are typically visible at three to six months.
When You Need a Surgeon Instead
Honest disclosure: if your turkey neck is severe, you probably need a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, not a dermatologist.
Signs that surgical correction is the right call:
- Significant hanging skin that does not pinch back when you lift it
- A heavy, deep wattle appearance with large amounts of excess tissue
- Combined sagging of the jowls, jawline, and neck
- You have already tried non-surgical options without enough improvement
- You are looking for a result that lasts 8 to 10 years rather than 1 to 2
Surgical options for advanced turkey neck:
Neck lift (cervicoplasty/platysmaplasty) removes excess skin and tightens the platysma muscle directly through small incisions behind the ears and under the chin. Recovery is typically 10 to 14 days.
Lower facelift addresses jowls, jawline, and neck together. More comprehensive than a neck lift alone.
Submental liposuction removes excess fat under the chin in younger patients with good skin elasticity.
We do not perform neck lift surgery at kalon Dermatology. If we evaluate your neck and decide you would benefit from surgical correction, we will tell you and recommend you see a facial plastic surgeon.
How to Choose: A Quick Decision Framework
If your main issue is fine vertical bands on the front of your neck: Start with Botox at a dermatology office. Quick, affordable, no downtime.
If your main issue is mild to moderate skin laxity but pinching the skin shows it can still spring back: Start with Sofwave. This is what dermatology does best for non-surgical neck tightening.
If your skin does not spring back when pinched, the wattle is heavy, or you have significant jowls combined with neck sagging: Skip dermatology and consult a board-certified facial plastic surgeon directly. Non-surgical options will not give you the result you are looking for.
If you are not sure: Come in for a consultation. We will evaluate your specific anatomy and tell you honestly what we can and cannot do for you.
Non-Surgical Neck Lift at kalon Dermatology
At kalon Dermatology, we understand how frustrating turkey neck can be. Our experienced team offers advanced Sofwave treatments specifically designed to tighten and lift sagging neck skin without surgery, needles, or downtime.
Why patients choose kalon Dermatology for neck rejuvenation:
Our providers have extensive experience in cosmetic dermatology and understand the unique challenges of neck aging. We take time to evaluate your specific concerns and create a personalized treatment plan.
We use Sofwave technology, which delivers effective skin tightening with improved comfort compared to older devices. Our medical-grade numbing protocols ensure your treatment experience is as comfortable as possible.
kalon Dermatology serves patients from Sheepshead Bay, Brighton Beach, Midwood, and surrounding Brooklyn neighborhoods, as well as Staten Island’s North Shore community. With two convenient locations, expert care is always close to home.
What patients say about their experience:
“The doctor was very thorough, taking the time to answer all of my questions without rushing through the appointment. I felt genuinely cared for and valued as a patient.”
“Dr. Danny is the best and very knowledgeable. He will recommend what’s best and won’t try to sell you bs.”
“I had a few procedures done and the results are amazing. Staff is friendly, office is clean and nicely decorated.”
Conveniently located to serve you:
Brooklyn (Sheepshead Bay) 2792 Ocean Ave, 2nd Floor Brooklyn, NY 11229, Monday through Thursday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Staten Island (West Brighton) 796 Castleton Ave Staten Island, NY 10310, Monday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Schedule a consultation to learn which non-surgical neck tightening treatment is right for you.
FAQs About Non-Surgical Turkey Neck Treatment
How much does non-surgical neck tightening cost?
Non-surgical neck treatments typically range from $1,500 to $4,500 depending on the technology used and areas treated. Sofwave and Ultherapy are at the higher end because they often require only one session. A consultation will provide specific pricing based on your treatment plan.
Am I a good candidate for non-surgical treatment?
Most patients with mild to moderate neck laxity are good candidates for non-surgical options. Ideal candidates have some skin elasticity remaining and realistic expectations about the degree of improvement possible without surgery. During your consultation, we will assess your skin quality and recommend the best approach.
What if my turkey neck is severe?
Non-surgical treatments can improve even more advanced neck laxity, though results may be more subtle than what surgery could achieve. Some patients with severe sagging may benefit from combining non-surgical treatments with surgical options, or may be better served by a surgical neck lift. We will give you an honest assessment during your consultation.
Can I combine treatments for better results?
Yes, combination approaches often deliver the best outcomes. For example, Sofwave for skin tightening paired with Kybella for fat reduction can address multiple concerns simultaneously. Combining treatments with a good skincare routine also helps maximize and maintain results.
How many sessions will I need?
“The amount of sessions is usually individual, but it is between one or two sessions between three to six months apart,” according to the kalon Dermatology team. Some patients achieve their goals with a single treatment, while others benefit from a follow-up session.
Is there any downtime?
No. You can return to work and normal activities immediately after treatment. Mild redness typically resolves within hours to a day.
Can a dermatologist fix turkey neck without surgery?
For mild to moderate cases, yes. Sofwave skin tightening and Botox for platysmal bands can significantly improve the appearance of an aging neck. For severe sagging or heavy excess skin, surgery is the better option and we will refer you to a facial plastic surgeon.
How long do non-surgical turkey neck results last?
Sofwave results last about a year, with some patients seeing benefit longer. Botox for platysmal bands lasts 3 to 4 months and requires quarterly maintenance. Surgical neck lifts last 8 to 10 years but require recovery time and have surgical risks.
Is Sofwave painful?
Most patients tolerate Sofwave well. There is some warmth and mild discomfort during the treatment, but no anesthesia is needed and there is no downtime afterward.
Will insurance cover turkey neck treatment?
Cosmetic neck treatments are not covered by insurance whether they are surgical or non-surgical.
Where can I get non-surgical turkey neck treatment in Brooklyn or Staten Island?
kalon Dermatology offers Sofwave and Botox at our Brooklyn (Sheepshead Bay), Bay Ridge, and Staten Island offices. Call (833) 635-2566 to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment decisions for skin laxity and neck rejuvenation should be made in consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon based on your individual anatomy and goals. Please call (833) 635-2566 to schedule a consultation with kalon Dermatology.