In a significant advancement for aesthetic treatments, BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) has received FDA approval for the temporary improvement of moderate to severe vertical bands connecting the jaw and neck, also known as platysma bands. This approval makes BOTOX® the first and only aesthetic neurotoxin to address this area, expanding its uses beyond the face to include the neck—a region many patients find concerning.
What Are Platysma Bands?
The platysma is a thin muscle that covers the neck and extends over the lower face. Due to age or certain lifestyle factors, this muscle can contract, leading to the appearance of vertical bands. These bands can create a less defined jawline, which many individuals find bothersome. Now, Botox® patients have an FDA approved nonsurgical option to improve the appearance of these bands, enhancing their overall facial aesthetics.
Clinical Insights
According to research conducted by Allergan Aesthetics, many individuals are significantly concerned about their platysma bands. In clinical studies, a majority of patients reported satisfaction with their neck and jawline definition after treatment. By strategically injecting BOTOX® along the jawline and platysma bands, practitioners can reduce underlying muscle activity, leading to smoother and more youthful-looking neck contours.
A New Tool for Aesthetic Injectors
For aesthetic practitioners, this approval opens up new avenues for treatment. With precise injection techniques and appropriate dosing, practitioners can now provide their patients with a reliable option for enhancing neck aesthetics.
Why This Matters
The addition of platysma bands to BOTOX® Cosmetic’s approved indications marks a significant milestone in aesthetic medicine. BOTOX® is now approved for four aesthetic indications:
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines
- Crow’s feet
- Platysma bands
This versatility allows providers to offer comprehensive treatment options tailored to individual patient needs, with an FDA approval to boot!
Making It Work For Your Business
This FDA approval provides practitioners with additional tools for achieving desired outcomes and enhancing patient satisfaction. Also, telling patients that a treatment is now FDA approved can also be a great selling point and an opportunity for new marketing content in your practice!
Injections of the platysma bands are covered in our Advanced Neurotoxins/Fillers training, so if you’re interested in learning more, send us a message. This approval represents an important step in the evolving field of aesthetic medicine and will hopefully be just the latest in many more to come!