The 'Nefertiti lift': a new technique for specific re-contouring of the jawline

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) is now used extensively for rejuvenation of the forehead, glabellar and periocular regions and there is increasing focus on treatment of the lower face. Although there is well-documented evidence for the efficacy of botulinum toxin in the correction of platysmal bands, little work has been done to explore its potential role in rejuvenation of the jawline. To date, effects in this area have been reported as a consequence of platysmal banding treatment and are inconsistent. Hesitancy to explore treatment may be due to evidence of a greater, more durable response to the toxin in the lower facial muscles as well as reports of increased potential migration and subsequent side effects. This paper describes a new technique using BoNTA (Vistabel); Allergan, Irvine, CA, USA) to drape the skin of the jawline contour and provide the visual effect of a 'mini lift'. Experience with 130 patients with doses of BoNTA up to 20 U is described. Patient satisfaction is extremely high and the specificity of dosing and technique has led to a low incidence of adverse effects. The 'Nefertiti lift' is a minimally invasive, effective and acceptable alternative for those patients seeking an effective way to push back surgery.