The neck is one of the first areas to show signs of aging, yet it often goes overlooked in aesthetic treatments. Patients concerned with sagging skin, horizontal lines, and prominent platysmal bands are increasingly seeking non-surgical options to rejuvenate the neck. Dysport, a botulinum toxin type A injectable, has emerged as a highly effective solution for softening dynamic wrinkles and reducing the appearance of aging in this area. This guide will explore how aesthetic practitioners can use Dysport to address neck aging, providing best practices for achieving natural, long-lasting results.

Understanding the Aging Neck

Aging in the neck presents in several ways, often in combination:

• Horizontal “necklace” lines – Fine lines and deeper creases develop across the neck due to repetitive movements and collagen loss.
• Vertical platysmal bands – Overactive platysma muscles create visible bands that run from the jawline to the collarbone, giving the neck a “corded” appearance.\
• Loss of elasticity and collagen – Skin thins over time, resulting in crepey texture and sagging.
• Submental fullness and jawline blurring – Accumulated fat and skin laxity contribute to loss of definition.

While surgical options like a neck lift provide dramatic results, many patients prefer minimally invasive treatments. Energy-based therapies (radiofrequency, ultrasound) help tighten skin but do not address muscle-related concerns. Dysport offers a non-surgical, highly effective solution by targeting the underlying muscle contractions that contribute to aging signs.

How Dysport Works for Neck Rejuvenation

Dysport is a botulinum toxin that blocks acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions, temporarily inhibiting muscle contractions. When injected into the platysma, Dysport relaxes the muscle, reducing the prominence of vertical bands and softening dynamic wrinkles.

Key Differences Between Dysport and Botox for the Neck

• Faster onset: Dysport starts working in 2-3 days, compared to 4-7 days for Botox.
• Greater diffusion: Dysport spreads more widely, allowing for even distribution with fewer injection points.
• Longer-lasting effects: Many patients report Dysport lasting up to 4 months, while Botox typically lasts 3 months.

Ideal Candidates for Dysport Neck Treatments

• Patients with moderate platysmal banding or horizontal wrinkles.
• Individuals seeking a subtle but noticeable improvement without surgery.
• Patients who understand that Dysport will not address skin laxity and may need complementary treatments.

Injection Techniques and Best Practices

Achieving optimal results with Dysport requires precise dosing, correct placement, and an understanding of how the platysma interacts with surrounding structures.

Injection Areas and Techniques

1. Platysmal bands – Inject Dysport 1 cm apart along each vertical band to relax hyperactivity.
2. Horizontal neck wrinkles – Microinjections along the line can smooth dynamic wrinkles.
3. Jawline support (“Nefertiti Lift”) – Targeting the platysma along the jawline creates a subtle lifting effect.

Recommended Dosage and Dilution

• Platysmal bands: 10-15 units per band, spaced along 3-5 points.
• Horizontal lines: 2-4 units per site spread evenly across the wrinkle.
• Jawline tightening: 5-10 units per side to improve contouring.

Step-by-Step Injection Protocol

1. Mark injection points for symmetrical results.
2. Inject superficially for horizontal lines and deeper for platysmal bands.
3. Avoid diffusion into deeper neck muscles by maintaining precise needle placement.

Preventing Complications

• Avoid injections too close to the esophagus to prevent dysphagia (swallowing difficulty).
• Over-relaxing the platysma can lead to excess skin laxity instead of a lifting effect.
• Use appropriate spacing to prevent asymmetry or an unnatural “frozen” look.

Combination Therapies for Enhanced Results

• Dysport + Dermal Fillers – Hyaluronic acid fillers can restore lost volume and improve skin texture.
• Dysport + Energy-Based Treatments – Radiofrequency and ultrasound therapy enhance skin tightening.
• Dysport + Collagen Stimulators – Sculptra or Radiesse stimulate long-term collagen production for sustained improvements.

Managing Patient Expectations and Post-Treatment Care

Aesthetic outcomes depend not only on injection technique but also on proper patient education and post-treatment care.

Setting Realistic Expectations

• Dysport reduces muscle-related wrinkles but does not tighten significantly lax skin.
• Maximum improvement appears in 7-10 days, with results lasting 3-4 months.
• Repeat treatments are necessary for sustained benefits.

Addressing Potential Side Effects

• Mild swelling and bruising at injection sites are common and resolve within days.
• Temporary neck weakness may occur with excessive dosing but improves over time.
• Asymmetry can be corrected with a touch-up at the two-week follow-up.
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) is rare but may occur if injections are misplaced.

Post-Treatment Recommendations

• No touching or massaging the area for 4-6 hours post-treatment.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours to prevent excessive diffusion.
• Patients should sleep with their head elevated the first night.
• Follow-up in two weeks to assess results and make any necessary refinements.

Integrating Dysport Into a Comprehensive Anti-Aging Plan

• Offer Dysport in combination with other non-surgical treatments for optimal rejuvenation.
• Educate patients on the benefits of preventative Dysport to slow down visible aging.
• Position Dysport as part of a full face-and-neck package for improved outcomes and patient retention.

Conclusion

Dysport is a powerful tool for treating the aging neck, providing a non-invasive way to reduce dynamic wrinkles and improve overall skin smoothness. By mastering precise injection techniques and managing patient expectations, aesthetic practitioners can achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. When integrated into a comprehensive anti-aging protocol, Dysport offers a highly effective solution for neck rejuvenation without the need for surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions