Turkey Neck: Causes, Treatment and Prevention

The so-called "turkey neck" describes loose, sagging skin in the neck area that creates a wattled appearance reminiscent of a turkey's neck. It develops through a combination of skin ageing, loss of elasticity, weakening of the neck muscles (platysma), and fat accumulation under the chin. While the process is natural, modern aesthetic medicine offers various effective treatment options.

Causes of a Turkey Neck

Loss of collagen and elastin: skin loses its elasticity from the mid-30s onwards
Platysmal bands: the neck muscle relaxes and forms visible vertical bands
Submental fat accumulation: fat deposits under the chin emphasize the sagging appearance
Sun damage: UV radiation accelerates skin ageing in the neck area
Genetics: hereditary tendency towards loose neck skin
Significant weight loss: rapid weight reduction leaves excess skin

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Botulinum Toxin (Nefertiti Lift)

Injection of botulinum toxin along the jaw and into the neck muscles reduces the pull of the platysma downwards and creates subtle lift. A good option for mild to moderate laxity.

Ultherapy / HIFU

Focused ultrasound stimulates deep collagen production and tightens neck skin. Non-invasive, downtime-free. Results develop over 3–6 months.

Kybella (Deoxycholic Acid)

For submental fat reduction without surgery. Injections destroy fat cells permanently. Multiple sessions required.

Surgical Treatment

Neck Lift (Lower Rhytidectomy)

The most comprehensive solution for pronounced turkey neck. Surgical tightening of skin and muscles achieves lasting results that non-invasive methods cannot replicate.

Costs

Treatment	Costs from
Botox Nefertiti lift	€200–€400
Ultherapy/HIFU (neck)	€800–€2,000
Surgical neck lift	€4,500–€8,000

FAQ

Can a turkey neck be corrected without surgery?

Mild to moderate laxity can be improved with non-surgical methods (Botox, HIFU, radiofrequency). Pronounced turkey neck with significant excess skin typically requires surgical correction for optimal results.