The Trending Nefertiti Lift: Dermatologists Explain the Jaw and Neck Sculpting Treatment

Talk of the Nefertiti lift has been making its rounds on the aesthetic treatment side of social media. While it might seem new and trendy, experts have been studying it since 2007. “The Nefertiti lift, named after the iconic Egyptian queen, has emerged as a popular non-surgical procedure for enhancing jawline definition and reducing the appearance of sagging skin,” says New York dermatologist Elaine Kung, MD. Delray Beach, FL dermatologist Janet Allenby, MD is quick to note that although it’s trending, the technique is not yet FDA-approved. We have all the information you need from experts before considering a Nefertiti lift to sharpen your jaw and banish tech neck.

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What is the Nefertiti lift?

The Nefertiti lift technique involves strategic injections of botulinum toxin into specific areas of the neck and jawline. Dr. Allenby says this can be done with any of the five commercially available neuromodulators used in aesthetics.

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“Botulinum toxin works by relaxing the muscles it’s injected in. When injected into the neck and jawline, it relaxes the platysmal muscles, which can contribute to sagging and jowling. By reducing the activity of these muscles, the Nefertiti lift can create a more sculpted and youthful appearance,” explains Dr. Kung.

The neurotoxins work by relaxing the platysmal bands, thereby diminishing the tenting effect and promoting a more defined jawline, says Southlake, TX and Monroe, LA dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD. “This has become a standard approach in my practice to minimize the appearance of jowls and contour the neck by injecting not just along the mandibular jawline but also down the platysmal bands on the anterior and lateral neck.”

The benefits of the Nefertiti lift

Dr. Hopkins says the treatment is quick and painless—she even injected her own last week. “The procedure takes no more than 10 minutes and generally lasts about four months with a high satisfaction rate with the patients,” adds Dr. Allenby.

The main benefits are a smoother neck with better jawline definition, says Dr. Hopkins. “The Nefertiti lift can create a subtle, natural-looking improvement in jawline definition and reduce the appearance of sagging skin,” says Dr. Kung. “The effects of a Nefertiti lift can last for several months, and follow-up injections can be performed to maintain the desired results.” However, she notes that it’s important to have realistic expectations as the results are subtle, not dramatic, like those of a true surgical face and neck lift.

Who would benefit from a Nefertiti lift?

Dr. Kung recommends a Nefertiti lift for those with mild to moderate jowling or sagging neck skin looking for a non-surgical solution to improving their jawline and neck contour. Dr. Hopkins describes it as “essential” for her over-40 patients.