How to Know if a Nefertiti Lift Is Right for You

Co-authored by Adebola Dele-Michael, MD, FAAD and Sophia Latorre

Last Updated: December 15, 2022 References

A Nefertiti lift (or Nefertiti Necklift) is the name of a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in which botulinum toxin (Botox) is injected into the jawline. The Botox relaxes the muscles so they don’t pull down so much, leading to a smoother, less wrinkled neck and more defined jawline. This “mini facelift” gets its name from the Egyptian Queen Nefertiti from 14th century BC, who had a beautiful, elegant neck and a defined jaw. Read on to learn about the safety, effectiveness, and cost of this procedure so you can figure out if it’s right for you! We even share what to expect if you do decide to get a Nefertiti lift.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Examining Safety and Effectiveness

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Go with a Nefertiti lift if you want to avoid a traditional lower facelift or neck lift. During surgical neck lifts and facelifts, a plastic surgeon would put you under anesthesia so they can move and tighten the skin on your lower face and/or neck. They usually remove or reposition the fat before sewing your skin closed.^{[1]
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Trustworthy Source
Mayo Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
Go to source} The Nefertiti lift is less invasive and doesn’t involve cutting or sewing your skin—it’s only a series of Botox injections—so there are fewer risks and no recovery time.^{[2]
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Research source}
- Overall, a Nefertiti lift seems to be a good nonsurgical way to improve the appearance of your neck and jaw. It's a more than acceptable alternative to a traditional neck-lift.
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Expect to see a stronger jaw and fewer wrinkles around your mouth and neck. The Botox injections will contour the corners of the mouth as well as your jawline and neck. ^{[3]
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Research source} This procedure can also lead to a softened chin, and may even reduce the look of jowls.
- Unfortunately, if your jowls caused by excess fat rather than an overactive platysma muscle (or neck muscle), the injections might not be as effective. However, if the platysmal bands of your neck are causing jowls, a Nefertiti lift could be one of the best nonsurgical treatments available.
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Note that most people who’ve had this done are happy with the results. Those who've gotten this procedure are quite pleased with the outcome according to a study of 130 people who received a Nefertiti lift.^{[4]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health
Go to source} In fact, 126 of those patients noticed a difference immediately and didn't have serious side effects.
- If you have a lot of wrinkles or are over the age of 65, Botox injections may not be as effective.^{[5]
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  Research source} Speak to a plastic surgeon to find out if Botox in combination with dermal fillers or a neck lift or facelift would be better in your case.
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Understand that mild side effects are pretty common. After getting Botox injections, you might have redness, swelling, or even bruising on your face. Flu-like symptoms and a headache are common in the first day after the procedure—you did just have toxins injected into your body, after all!^{[6]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
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- None of these symptoms are cause for concern, though they might make you uncomfortable.
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Recognize that there is a risk of serious side effects. Though Botox is generally pretty safe, some people do have bad reactions. You could experience difficulty breathing, for instance, after having it injected into your neck.^{[7]
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Trustworthy Source
National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source} If you do have any serious problems, seek medical attention right away.
- The larger the dose of Botox, the higher the risk of complications.^{[8]
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  Research source}
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Avoid getting Botox injections if you have underlying health issues. Never get Botox if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Reschedule your procedure if you're sick or have any type of infection, as well. In fact, speak to your primary care provider to make sure that Botox won’t negatively interact with any medical conditions you have or any medications you’re taking.^{[9]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source}
- For instance, don’t get a Nefertiti lift if you have a neuromuscular condition such as myasthenia gravis.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Researching the Cost

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Note that most insurance companies don’t cover cosmetic procedures. Unfortunately, you’re going to have to pay out of pocket for this. Since the Botox is being used for cosmetic reasons, as opposed to treating migraines, for instance, your insurance probably won’t cover it.^{[10]
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Expect to pay up to $500 for a Nefertiti lift. The cost depends on where you get the procedure done as well as how many units of Botox the doctor injects. Typically, you can get a Nefertiti lift for $200-$500.
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Plan to repeat the treatment 2-4 times per year. Unfortunately, Botox wears off within 3-6 months. If you are happy with the results of the Nefertiti lift, you'll likely want to repeat the procedure pretty frequently to maintain the results.
- This could cost up to $2,000 per year.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Getting a Nefertiti Lift

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Make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Though you might be able to get this procedure done at a spa or elsewhere, it’s best to choose a plastic surgeon or dermatologist who’s been trained to properly administer Botox. Choose a medical practitioner that has a license and experience with the procedure.^{[11]
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- Before the doctor goes ahead with the procedure, they’ll examine you and ask questions about your medical history to make sure you’re an ideal candidate.
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Expect to feel some pain or discomfort. The doctor will clean your skin and give you a series of Botox injections in your face, lower jaw, and neck with a small needle.^{[12]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source} This can be pretty uncomfortable, but try to stay still and just breathe through it!
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Wait to see the results for up to 3 weeks. After 2-3 days, you’ll likely start to notice a difference in your appearance. However, you won’t see the full effect for 2-3 weeks, so be patient. In the meantime, avoid going to the sauna, suntanning, exercising vigorously, or rubbing or massaging your face. ^{[13]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK
Go to source}
- You should notice smoother skin, a more defined jaw, and fewer fine lines!

Expert Q&A

Question

Who is a good candidate for a Nefertiti lift?

Adebola Dele-Michael, MD, FAAD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael is a Board Certified Dermatologist and the Owner of Radiant Skin Dermatology and Laser, PLLC in Manhattan, New York. With over 12 years of experience, she specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology, specifically, using lasers and energy devices in treating skin of color.She is an assistant professor of Dermatology at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Manhattan, NYC. Dr. Dele-Michael holds a BS in Biochemistry from Stony Brook University and an MD from The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She completed her Dermatology Residency at Wayne State University School of Medicine, where she was also chief resident.

Adebola Dele-Michael, MD, FAAD

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

A good candidate for a Nefertiti lift is someone who feels like they have loose, lax skin in their jawline, chin, or neck area. Still, it's always best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon first—they can help you figure out whether or not this will be a good treatment for you.