Q. I am only 33 years old and already have a huge platysmal band on the front/side of my neck that shows when I smile, swallow, talk, etc. it is very unsightly. I have a double Board certified facial plastic surgeon that already does my filler injections (under eyes, great results) and today I plan on trying Botox to relax the band. I am also getting Botox to my forehead. I have a cold though, lots of flem. Should I be worried the Botox can cause me not to be able to swallow properly or cough.
A. Botox to relax the platysma band(s) is very reliable when done correctly. Your trusted Board Certified Facial ENT sounds like he / she will do a great job. Due to the rare flu-like symptoms and rare dysphagia / dysphonia (swallowing / breathing) concerns, you may wish to wait a week for your cold / flu to resolve.
Consider speaking with your surgeon about other options for your platysma band. 80% of patients have a separation between the medial aspect of their platysma muscles. This can be surgically united through a chin incision to give you a sling like cradle and elevation of the neck rather than weakening the muscle with Botox.
Good luck with your injection! Happy Holidays! Getting Botox for plastysmal band for the first time today. I’m very worried. Should I worry about breathing/swallowing?
Q. I am only 33 years old and already have a huge platysmal band on the front/side of my neck that shows when I smile, swallow, talk, etc. it is very unsightly. I have a double Board certified facial plastic surgeon that already does my filler injections (under eyes, great results) and today I plan on trying Botox to relax the band. I am also getting Botox to my forehead. I have a cold though, lots of flem. Should I be worried the Botox can cause me not to be able to swallow properly or cough.
A. Botox to relax the platysma band(s) is very reliable when done correctly. Your trusted Board Certified Facial ENT sounds like he / she will do a great job. Due to the rare flu-like symptoms and rare dysphagia / dysphonia (swallowing / breathing) concerns, you may wish to wait a week for your cold / flu to resolve.
Consider speaking with your surgeon about other options for your platysma band. 80% of patients have a separation between the medial aspect of their platysma muscles. This can be surgically united through a chin incision to give you a sling like cradle and elevation of the neck rather than weakening the muscle with Botox.
Good luck with your injection! Happy Holidays! 
