Ellacor for neck: #1 Sagging Skin Solution

Why Neck Sagging After Weight Loss Is So Frustrating—and What You Can Do About It

Ellacor for neck rejuvenation is an FDA-cleared, non-surgical micro-coring treatment that removes tiny columns of excess skin to tighten and smooth sagging neck skin, wrinkles, and horizontal bands without incisions or thermal injury.

Quick answer for “Ellacor for neck”:

• What it treats: Turkey neck, horizontal neck bands, wrinkles, jowls, and loose skin under the chin
• How it works: Removes up to 8% of skin using hollow needles (micro-coring), triggering natural collagen healing
• Recovery: 3–7 days of visible micro-dots; full results in 3–6 months after 2–3 sessions
• Best for: Adults 22+ with Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV and moderate skin laxity
• Not a replacement for: Surgical neck lift if you have severe sagging or significant muscle banding

If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight—whether through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery—you’ve accomplished something incredible. But the journey doesn’t always end with the body you imagined.

Loose, crepey skin on the neck is one of the most common (and most visible) side effects of major weight loss. The skin stretched for months or years, and when the volume underneath disappears, it doesn’t always snap back. You’re left with sagging folds, horizontal creases (often called “necklace lines”), and a profile that doesn’t match the lighter, healthier version of you.

For a long time, the only real solution was surgery—a neck lift with incisions, general anesthesia, drains, and weeks of recovery. But not everyone is ready for that level of intervention.

That’s where Ellacor comes in.

Ellacor uses a technology called Micro-Coring to physically remove tiny cores of excess skin from the neck—without heat, without scalpels, and without evidence of scarring. The body’s natural healing response closes those micro-channels and stimulates fresh collagen, resulting in a tighter, smoother neck over the following months.

It’s not a facelift. It’s not a laser. It’s the first and only FDA-cleared device that actually removes skin on a microscopic scale to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and laxity in the mid-to-lower face—and increasingly, the neck.

I’m Daniel J. Farrugia, MD, PhD, FACS, a board-certified surgeon and owner of BodyLuxe in Chicago, where I specialize in awake body contouring under local anesthesia. I understand the physiology of skin tightening, patient selection, and recovery intimately, and I’m here to help you understand whether this emerging technology might be the right next step for your post-weight-loss change.

What is Ellacor and How Does Micro-Coring Work?

At BodyLuxe, we are always seeking innovative, evidence-based solutions that offer our patients effective results with minimal invasiveness. Ellacor represents a groundbreaking approach to skin rejuvenation, particularly for concerns like a sagging neck.

Ellacor is the first and only FDA-cleared procedure designed to non-surgically remove excess skin. Unlike traditional skin tightening methods that rely on heat or energy, Ellacor uses a unique technology called Micro-Coring. This innovative approach involves precisely removing thousands of tiny micro-cores of skin—each about 0.02 inches in diameter—from the treated area.

Imagine a very fine, hollow needle. The Ellacor device uses an array of these hollow needles to extract full-thickness micro-cores of both dermal and epidermal tissue. This process is mechanical; it doesn’t generate heat or cause thermal injury to the surrounding skin. This is a crucial distinction, as many other skin revitalization devices use heat from lasers, radiofrequency, or ultrasound to induce controlled damage and stimulate collagen. While those methods have their place, Ellacor’s non-thermal approach can lead to a different healing experience.

In a single treatment, Ellacor can remove up to 8% of the total surface area of the skin. This physical removal of skin is what sets it apart. Once these micro-cores are removed, your body’s natural healing response kicks into high gear. The tiny channels quickly close, and the skin naturally realigns along its tension lines, leading to an improved skin architecture. Simultaneously, this healing process stimulates a robust production of new collagen, the protein responsible for skin’s firmness and elasticity. The goal is to achieve significant skin tightening and wrinkle reduction without leaving behind any visible scars. Indeed, scientific research supports the concept that small, full-thickness skin injuries can heal without scarring. For more detailed information on scarless healing, you can refer to this research on scarless healing.

This unique micro-coring technology allows for a natural, noticeable improvement in skin quality and tightness. It’s a precise way to address skin laxity without the extensive downtime or incisions associated with surgery. While our focus here is on the neck, Ellacor is also highly effective for improving wrinkles and tightening skin on the face. You can learn more about its applications for the face at Ellacor for Face Tightening, Wrinkle Reduction.

Is Ellacor for Neck Rejuvenation Right for You?

Determining if Ellacor for neck rejuvenation is the right choice depends on several factors, including your specific concerns, skin condition, and overall health. As a surgeon-led clinic, we prioritize a thorough consultation to ensure the best and safest outcomes for our patients in Chicago.

Ellacor is best suited for individuals who:

• Have moderate skin laxity: This procedure is ideal for those with noticeable sagging or wrinkles on the neck but who don’t require the dramatic results of a surgical neck lift.
• Are 22 years or older: The FDA clearance specifies adults aged 22 or older.
• Have Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV: Clinical trials have primarily focused on lighter skin tones (I-IV). While trials for darker skin types (V and VI) are ongoing, we recommend discussing this thoroughly during your consultation if you have a darker complexion, as different skin types can react differently to aesthetic treatments.
• Are not ready for surgery: Ellacor offers a compelling non-surgical alternative for those seeking significant improvement without incisions, sutures, or extended surgical recovery.
• Have realistic expectations: While Ellacor can deliver impressive results, it’s important to understand it’s not a surgical facelift. We will discuss what kind of outcomes you can realistically expect.

For more information custom to neck and body tightening, please visit Ellacor for Neck Body Tightening.

What Specific Concerns Can Ellacor for Neck Treatment Address?

The neck is often one of the first areas to show signs of aging and the effects of gravity, especially after weight loss. Ellacor for neck can effectively target a range of these concerns:

• Sagging skin (often called “turkey neck”): By removing micro-cores of excess skin and stimulating collagen, Ellacor helps tighten and lift loose neck skin, reducing that crepey appearance.
• Horizontal neck bands (necklace lines): These common lines can be softened as the skin tightens and new collagen is produced.
• Wrinkles: Fine lines and deeper wrinkles on the neck can be significantly improved, leading to a smoother texture.
• Jowls: The effects of gravity on the jowls, which contribute to a less defined jawline, can be lessened as the skin below the chin tightens.
• Submental fullness (under the chin): While not a fat reduction treatment, by tightening the skin in the submentum area, Ellacor can contribute to a more refined profile.
• Décolleté skin texture: Ellacor can also be applied to the upper chest, helping to tighten and improve the skin texture of the décolleté, which often shows sun damage and signs of aging.

Our expertise confirms that in areas like the center part of the neck, where the tissue can be stretched over the bone, micro-coring can be particularly effective.

Who Might Not Be a Good Candidate?

While Ellacor is a fantastic option for many, it’s not universally suitable. We carefully assess each patient to ensure safety and optimal results. You might not be a good candidate if you have:

• Severe skin laxity: If you have a significant amount of loose, hanging skin, a surgical procedure like a neck lift might be more appropriate to achieve your desired outcome.
• Active skin infections or dermatosis: Any active skin conditions, open wounds, or irritated skin in the treatment area would need to be resolved first.
• Certain autoimmune conditions: Some autoimmune disorders can affect healing, making Ellacor less suitable.
• History of keloid scarring: Individuals prone to keloid scars may have a higher risk of adverse scarring with any skin procedure.
• Pregnancy or nursing: As a precaution, we do not perform aesthetic treatments on pregnant or nursing mothers.
• Allergies: Allergies to stainless steel (used in the needles) or specific medications used during the procedure.
• Certain medications: High doses of anticoagulants, chemotherapy, or high-dose corticosteroid use can also be contraindications.

We will conduct a thorough review of your medical history and discuss any conditions or medications that could impact your candidacy. For a comprehensive understanding of safety, side effects, and aftercare, please refer to our dedicated page: Ellacor Safety, Side Effects, and Aftercare.

The Ellacor Treatment Journey: What to Expect

When you choose BodyLuxe for your aesthetic journey, you’re choosing a surgeon-led clinic that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and results. Our approach to Ellacor for neck treatment is meticulous, ensuring a smooth experience from consultation to recovery.

The Consultation and Preparation

Your journey begins with a personalized consultation with Dr. Farrugia. This is a crucial step where we listen to your aesthetic goals, assess your skin quality, and determine if Ellacor is the best treatment path for you. We will review your medical history in detail, discuss any medications you are taking, and explain the procedure thoroughly.

If Ellacor is deemed appropriate, we will provide you with specific pre-treatment instructions. These typically include:

• Avoiding blood thinners: To minimize bruising, we generally advise stopping certain medications and supplements like NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Aleve), fish oil, and high-dose blood thinners for about 14-21 days prior to your treatment. Always discuss this with us and your primary care physician before discontinuing any prescribed medications.
• Avoiding sun exposure: Minimize sun exposure in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
• Hydration: Keeping your skin well-hydrated is always a good practice.

For a deeper dive into what to expect during your initial visit, our guide on What to Expect During Your Consultation is a valuable resource.

The Procedure Itself

On the day of your Ellacor for neck treatment, your comfort is our priority.

1. Numbing: We will apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area, and in some cases, local anesthesia injections may be used to ensure you are as comfortable as possible. Most patients in clinical trials reported pain during the procedure as less than 2 on a 0-10 scale, indicating it’s generally well-tolerated.
2. Treatment: Once you are numb, the Ellacor handpiece will be gently guided across your neck. The device uses its array of hollow needles to create thousands of micro-cores in a precise grid pattern. You might feel a sensation of light pressure or suction, but it should not be painful due to the anesthesia.
3. Duration: A typical Ellacor procedure, including the numbing time, can last between 30 to 60 minutes.
4. Immediate Appearance: Immediately after the procedure, you will notice tiny pinpoint bleeding and redness, along with small micro-dots where the skin cores were removed. This is a normal and expected part of the process.

Recovery and Downtime

While Ellacor is minimally invasive, it’s important to understand the recovery process.

• Expected Healing Timeline: You can expect some redness, swelling, and tenderness in the treated area for the first few days. The micro-dots will be visible, resembling a fine-textured rash.
• Social Downtime: Most patients experience about 3-7 days of social downtime, meaning you might prefer to avoid social engagements during this period. The pink dots on the neck typically fade within about two weeks.
• Aftercare Instructions: We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to optimize your healing:
  • Occlusive Dressing: You may need to apply an occlusive dressing, like petroleum jelly, for the first 24-48 hours.
  • Makeup and Products: Avoid makeup, sunscreen, and other topical skin products for at least five days post-treatment, unless specifically provided or recommended by us.
  • Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh skincare products (like retinols or acids) during the initial healing phase.
  • Sun Protection: Strict sun avoidance is crucial during the first week. Afterward, diligently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily to protect your healing skin and maintain your results.

Every patient heals differently, but following these instructions is key to a smooth recovery. For more in-depth information, our Ellacor Healing Process guide is available.

Understanding the Results and Longevity of Ellacor for Neck

The results from Ellacor for neck are not immediate, but they are designed to be natural-looking and long-lasting as your body works its magic.

• Visible Improvement Timeline: You may start to see subtle improvements within a few weeks of your first treatment as the initial healing occurs and collagen production begins.
• Optimal Results: For optimal results, most patients typically undergo a series of 2-3 treatment sessions, spaced approximately 4-8 weeks apart. Full results usually develop 3 to 6 months after your final treatment, as collagen remodeling takes time.
• Natural-Looking Skin Tightening: Clinical studies have shown impressive outcomes. For instance, 93% of patients showed improvement in moderate to severe wrinkles, and there was 95% overall patient satisfaction when considering all treatment sites. We have seen similar satisfaction rates in our practice. Ellacor aims to restore a more youthful contour to your neck and jawline without the stretched or “pulled” look often associated with aggressive surgery.
• Long-Lasting Effects: The collagen stimulated by Ellacor is your own natural collagen, meaning the results are durable. However, our skin continues to age, so maintenance treatments may be recommended annually to preserve your refreshed appearance. Factors like age, skin quality, and lifestyle (e.g., sun exposure, smoking) can influence the longevity of your results.

Safety, Risks, and Cost

Patient safety is paramount at BodyLuxe. Ellacor is an FDA-cleared technology, and when performed by a qualified and experienced medical professional, it is considered safe.

• Common Side Effects: As with any procedure, there are potential side effects. These typically include redness, swelling, bruising (especially at anesthetic injection sites), tenderness, dryness, roughness, and the temporary circular marks from the micro-cores. These usually resolve within days to a few weeks.
• Rare Risks: Less common but possible side effects include itching, hyper/hypopigmentation (darker or lighter spots), infection, and in very rare cases, scarring or skin irregularities. We thoroughly discuss all potential risks during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed.
• Importance of a Qualified Provider: Choosing an experienced provider, ideally a board-certified surgeon or dermatologist, is crucial for minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes. Their expertise ensures proper patient selection, technique, and post-procedure care.
• Cost: The cost of Ellacor for neck treatment can vary depending on the number of sessions required, the extent of the area being treated, and the provider’s experience. According to RealSelf, the average cost for Ellacor is around $3,004, with a typical range between $1,750 and $4,500 per session. Since most patients need 2-3 sessions for optimal results, this should be factored into your budget. We believe in transparent pricing and will provide a clear cost breakdown during your consultation. We also offer various financing options to make your aesthetic goals more accessible. Learn more about our flexible plans on our Medical Financing for Aesthetic Procedures page.

Comparing Ellacor to Other Skin Tightening Options at BodyLuxe

At BodyLuxe, we offer a range of advanced skin tightening treatments to address various patient needs. While Ellacor for neck is a unique and exciting addition, it’s helpful to understand how it compares to other options we provide, such as Renuvion and FormSculpt.

Ellacor’s unique benefit lies in its ability to physically remove a small percentage of skin. This mechanical removal, without the use of thermal energy, differentiates it significantly from many other devices that rely on heat to stimulate collagen. This non-thermal approach can translate to a distinct healing profile.

Compared to microneedling, which simply creates micro-injuries to stimulate collagen but doesn’t remove tissue, Ellacor is the first device to actually remove skin on a microscale. This makes it a more intensive solution for true skin reduction and tightening.

Our team at BodyLuxe is adept at assessing your unique needs and recommending the most appropriate treatment, or combination of treatments, to achieve your desired outcome. We often integrate different technologies to create a comprehensive rejuvenation plan. You can explore our other advanced skin tightening options at Lift Skin Tightening Treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ellacor

We understand you likely have many questions about this innovative treatment. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries we receive regarding Ellacor for neck rejuvenation.

Is Ellacor painful?

Patient comfort is a top priority for us at BodyLuxe. Before your Ellacor for neck procedure, we apply a topical numbing cream, and in some cases, local anesthesia injections are used to ensure the treatment area is well-anesthetized. Most patients report the procedure itself is not painful, describing the sensation as mild pressure or suction. In clinical trials, the majority of patients reported pain levels during the procedure as less than 2 on a 0-10 scale.

After the procedure, you might experience some discomfort, tenderness, and a sensation of tightness, similar to a sunburn. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and by applying ice to the treated area, as recommended in your aftercare instructions.

How many Ellacor treatments are needed for the neck?

The number of Ellacor treatments needed for the neck varies depending on the individual’s skin laxity, the severity of wrinkles, and their aesthetic goals. However, for optimal results, most patients typically undergo a series of 2-3 treatment sessions. These sessions are usually spaced approximately 4-8 weeks apart to allow for adequate healing and collagen regeneration between treatments.

During your consultation, we will assess your specific needs and create a customized treatment plan custom to achieve your desired outcome.

Can Ellacor be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely! At BodyLuxe, we believe in a holistic approach to body and facial aesthetics. Ellacor for neck can be an excellent standalone treatment, but it can also be effectively combined with other procedures to improve overall results, especially if you have concerns beyond skin laxity.

For instance, if submental fullness (excess fat under the chin) is also a concern, Ellacor could be combined with a fat reduction procedure like liposuction under local anesthesia to sculpt the area before tightening the skin. We can also integrate Ellacor into a broader rejuvenation plan that might include other skin treatments or volume restoration. Our team will work with you to design a comprehensive strategy that addresses all your aesthetic concerns, ensuring a harmonious and natural-looking result. You can explore more about our integrated approach to body contouring at What is Body Contouring?.

Your Next Step to a Tighter, More Youthful Neck

If you’re experiencing the frustration of sagging skin, wrinkles, or a less defined jawline on your neck, especially after weight loss, we understand your desire for effective solutions. Ellacor for neck represents a new era in non-surgical skin removal and rejuvenation. Its innovative micro-coring technology offers a unique pathway to a tighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking neck without the need for incisions or extensive downtime.

At BodyLuxe in Chicago, we are committed to providing you with advanced, evidence-based treatments within a premium, safety-first environment. Our surgeon-led approach means that every step of your journey, from your initial consultation to your final results, is overseen by a board-certified surgeon. We believe in ethical marketing, patient education, and delivering outstanding, natural-looking outcomes.

We invite you to take the next step toward reclaiming your confidence and enhancing your profile. Learn more about Dr. Daniel J. Farrugia, MD, PhD, FACS, and our commitment to excellence at About Daniel J. Farrugia, MD, PhD, FACS.

Ready to explore if Ellacor for neck is the right solution for you? We encourage you to schedule a consultation with us in Chicago. Let us help you create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your goals and helps you achieve the “snatched but believable” results you deserve.

Schedule your consultation for skin tightening in Chicago.