“Turkey neck”—that frustrating combination of sagging skin, lax muscles and soft-tissue changes in the neck—can make even the most confident person reach for a turtleneck. In a recent American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) article, Dr. Karen Horton, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, offered her expert perspective on why this concern is so common and which treatments truly make a difference.

According to Dr. Horton, aging, sun exposure and lifestyle factors can all contribute to loose skin, diminished elasticity and loss of jawline definition. Rapid weight loss, including results from GLP-1 medications, can also intensify the appearance of a “wobble.”

While many devices promise tightening, Dr. Horton emphasizes that the most reliable way to remove excess skin and reshape the neck is surgery. A neck lift (often performed as part of a lower facelift) can address redundant skin, reposition deeper structures and refine the jawline for a smoother, more youthful contour. Dr. Horton also notes that patients should complete their weight-loss journey and maintain stability for several months before considering surgical correction.

Noninvasive treatments—such as skin-tightening technologies, light-based rejuvenation, microneedling, and injectables—may offer modest improvements for mild laxity. However, for those seeking more dramatic, longer-lasting results, the surgical neck lift remains the gold standard.

Interested in learning what approach may be right for you? A consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon can help you understand your options and design a personalized treatment plan. Schedule your one-on-one meeting with Dr. Horton in San Francisco today.