A subtly defined jawline and relaxed corners of the mouth can contribute to a fresh appearance. Sometimes, muscles in the neck and lower face pull these areas downward. The Nefertiti lift is a Botox treatment that temporarily reduces this muscle activity. At JECT Clinics, we combine treatment of the superficial neck muscle (platysma) with the muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downward (DAO).
The Nefertiti Lift is named after the Egyptian queen Nefertiti, known for her elegant neck and well-defined jawline. The treatment focuses on reducing the downward pull of certain muscles. This allows the jawline and neck contour to be subtly enhanced and the corners of the mouth to assume a more relaxed position.
The results depend on your muscle activity, skin quality, and facial contours. A Nefertiti lift does not add volume or remove excess skin or fat.
In this combination treatment, we target two muscles that influence the appearance of the lower face.
The platysma is a thin, superficial muscle that extends from the neck to the jawline and the lower face. When contracted, vertical muscle bands in the neck may become visible. The muscle can also exert a downward pull on the tissues along the jawline.
The depressor anguli oris, or DAO for short, pulls the corners of the mouth downward. If this muscle is highly active, the corners of the mouth may remain in a downward position even at rest.
By selectively relaxing these muscles with Botox, their downward pulling force is reduced. As a result, the muscles that pull upward gain relatively more influence. This can create a subtle lifting effect, less noticeable neck lines, and less downward-turned corners of the mouth.
This treatment may be suitable for people whose symptoms are caused by active neck muscles and downward-pulling muscles at the corners of the mouth. Examples include visible vertical neck lines when tensing the muscles, a jawline that is less defined due to muscle activity, or corners of the mouth that pull downward.
Not every change in the jawline or neck is caused by muscles. In cases of pronounced skin sagging, loss of volume, or fat under the chin, Botox typically has a limited effect. During the consultation, the doctor will assess the cause and determine whether this treatment aligns with your goals. A Nefertiti lift does not have the same effect as a surgical neck lift or facelift.
Before the procedure, you’ll discuss your preferences, medical history, and current medications with the doctor. The doctor will examine your face and neck both at rest and during movement. Based on this examination, the treatment sites and the required amount of Botox will be determined.
Next, small amounts of Botox are injected with a thin needle into the platysma muscle in the neck and jawline area and into the DAO muscles at the corners of the mouth. The injections may cause a brief prick or some tenderness. The duration of the appointment depends on the consultation and the scope of the treatment.
Afterward, you can usually resume your normal daily activities. Small bumps, redness, or tenderness at the injection sites may be temporarily visible. Bruises may also develop, which take longer to fade. You will receive personalized aftercare instructions.
The effects usually begin in the days following treatment. The results are typically evaluated after about two weeks. You may notice that the neck is less tense and the corners of the mouth are less turned down. The change in the jawline is usually subtle.
The effect often lasts about three to four months, but this varies from person to person and depending on the treated area. As the effect wears off, muscle activity gradually returns to normal. If you want to maintain the results, you can discuss with your doctor whether and when a follow-up treatment is appropriate.
One of the great advantages of a brow elevator with botulinum toxin is that you can get back to work quickly. The treatment itself often takes no longer than 15 minutes, and recovery time is minimal. Most people can resume their normal activities the next day. However, it is wise to avoid strenuous physical activity immediately after treatment to minimize any complications such as swelling or bruising.
As with any cosmetic procedure, the Nefertiti lift with Botox also carries some risks. The most common side effects are mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site. These effects are usually mild and subside quickly. In addition, Botox can unintentionally weaken surrounding muscles. A careful assessment and procedure performed by an experienced cosmetic physician are therefore very important to minimize the risk of unwanted effects.
At JECT Clinics, treatment begins with a discussion of your goals and the possibilities offered by your unique anatomy. The doctor assesses the relationship between your neck, jawline, and the corners of your mouth, and tailors the treatment plan accordingly. The goal is a subtle change that complements your face, while preserving natural movement and expression.
Would you like to know if the Nefertiti lift could help improve your jawline, neck, or the corners of your mouth? During a personal consultation at JECT Clinics, we’ll assess the role that muscle activity plays and determine what results are realistic. This will allow you to make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
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