Botox Lift (Platysma Lift / Lift-Up Botox) | Comprehensive Guide to Effects and Downtime
"What kind of effects does Botox Lift have?"
"Lately, my jawline seems to be getting a bit blurry."
"My mouth corners droop, making me look grumpy."
"Neck wrinkles make you look older..."
Do you have any of these concerns about Botox Lift?
Hello. This is Aesthetic Dermatology and Smart Skin Clinic.
This article provides a detailed explanation of key points regarding Botox Lift—including its effects, duration, mechanism, downtime, risks, pricing considerations, and comparisons with other treatments—by a cosmetic dermatology clinic with over 10,000 annual injection procedure cases.
Chairman of Smart Skin Clinic Group
stone Kouta
career
Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine
Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and related facilities
Worked at a major beauty clinic in Tokyo
Affiliation / Qualifications
Japan Surgical Society Specialist
Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
*If you have an idea of what you want to know in advance, you can skip to the table of contents below.
What is Botox Lift?
Let me explain what a Botox Lift procedure entails, including how it differs from other Botox treatments.
Overview of Botox Lift
Botox Lift is, ,on the neckBotulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox) injections: A treatment that naturally smooths neck wrinkles, facial sagging, and drooping mouth corners by injecting minute amounts of the toxin.It is.
This treatment targets the platysma muscle extending from the jawline to the neck, as well as muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downward (such as the depressor anguli oris). It is ideal for those seeking a more youthful appearance and a slimmer-looking face.
The treatment time is short, and downtime is relatively minimal.
Botox Lift may be referred to by various names depending on the clinic.
These essentially refer to the same or very similar procedures.
- Botox Lift: A common name widely used in Japan
- Lift-Up Botox: A name that clearly expresses its effects
- Splenius Cervicalis Botox: A name focusing on the primary muscle targeted, the "splenius cervicis."
- Nefertiti Lift: A term commonly used overseas for an injection method that defines the jawline. It is named after the sharp, beautiful jawline and long neck of the ancient Egyptian queen Nefertiti.
Mechanism of Action of Botox Lift
Botox works by suppressing the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, temporarily weakening the contraction of facial muscles.
The face and neck contain muscles that lift the face upward (elevator muscles) and muscles that pull it downward (depressor muscles). These muscles work in balance with each other to create complex facial expressions.
Inject the formulation into the intradermal to superficial muscle layer,By relaxing the excessive tension in the downward-pulling muscles (platysma and depressor anguli oris), the upward-pulling muscles (elevator muscles) become relatively easier to activate, making the corners of the mouth appear lifted and the facial contours appear lighter.This leads to a lifting effect.
Regarding the efficacy of type A botulinum toxin for platysmal protrusion (PP), research findings indicate "significant improvement in severity by day 14 (with significant improvements also in satisfaction, perceived visual discomfort of the jawline and neck muscle bands, and psychosocial impact), with adverse events comparable to placebo and no reports of dysphagia or muscle weakness."
For more details about Botox's ingredients and effects, please see this article.
Anatomical Key Points: Continuity of the Platysma, Depressor Anguli Oris, and SMAS with Facial-Neck Contour
The key to understanding Botox Lift lies in the continuity of muscles and fascia.
The following relationships are particularly important.
- Platysma: A thin muscle spreading from the neck to the lower face. The vertical wrinkles (platysma bands) that appear when tensed contribute to sagging of the chin and jawline.
- Depressor anguli oris muscle: The muscle that pulls the corners of the mouth diagonally downward. Overactivity affects the downturned mouth and marionette lines.
- SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System): A continuous supporting structure from the face to the neck. It connects to the platysma muscle, allowing tension in the neck to be transmitted to the facial contour.
The key point is that these are not independent but continuous.
The downward force exerted by the platysma muscle connects to the cheeks and jawline via the SMAS. Individuals who maintain a prolonged downward-facing posture during desk work or those with strong teeth clenching tendencies are prone to developing excessive tension in the depressor muscles and are more susceptible to this condition.
By relaxing the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the downward force exerted on the SMAS is released, reducing the overall sagging appearance of the face.I am sure you will.
Differences from conventional Botox injections
| (data) item | Conventional Botox | Botox Lift |
| Injection depth | intramuscular | Intradermal to superficial muscle layer |
| Injection volume | comparatively large | Trace amounts over a wide area |
| Main effects | Improvement of expression wrinkles | lift up |
| Effect on facial expression | ant | minimum |
Botox Lift suppresses the downward movement of the depressor muscles, aiming for a relative lifting effect on the corners of the mouth, jawline, and neck.
On the other hand,Standard Botox injections work by weakening the contraction of specific muscles to improve expression lines.
For more information about Botox, please see the article below.
The Difference Between Skin Botox (Micro Botox)
| (data) item | Botox Lift | skin Botox |
| Injection depth | Intradermal to superficial muscle layer | Dermis to fascia surface |
| Injection volume | Trace amounts over a wide area | Trace amounts over a wide area |
| Main effects | lift up | Skin texture improvement, pore and sebum control |
| Effect on facial expression | minimum | minimum |
Botox Lift acts on the superficial muscles, suppressing downward pulling force to achieve a relative lifting effect.
On the other hand,Skin Botox primarily acts on sebaceous glands, sweat glands, arrector pili muscles, and superficial fibers to refine skin texture and pores.
For more details about Skin Botox, please see the article below.
Effects You Can Expect from Botox Lift
- Improving the facial contour
- Neckline Rejuvenation
- Lip Corner Lift
- Secondary effects on pores and sebum
Improving the facial contour
By gently relaxing the force that pulls the face line downward with the platysma muscle,The sagging contours tightened up, creating a sharp impression.The area from the chin to the front of the ear (lower jawline) appears slightly less saggy, resulting in a more petite-looking face and making the shadow of the marionette lines from the corners of the mouth to the chin relatively less noticeable. However, the actual amount of fat remains unchanged.
Neckline Rejuvenation
When the neckline—where signs of aging often appear—and the line from the face to the décolletage are beautifully refined, you can regain a remarkably youthful overall impression.
Botox Lift isRelax the tension in the platysma band to reduce vertical wrinkles.Not only that, but through micro-multiple-point injections into the intradermal to superficial layers,Skin texture becomes refined, and horizontal wrinkles softenThere are times when...
Lip corner lift
A strong depressor anguli oris muscle can cause drooping corners of the mouth and a sullen appearance.
With Botox Lift, thisBy weakening the action of the depressor anguli oris muscle, it naturally lifts the corners of the mouth for a brighter expression..
Additionally, lifting the corners of your mouth can help make marionette lines appear less pronounced.
Secondary effects on pores and sebum
Botox Lift isAdditionally, sebum and sweat secretion are moderated, leading to skin texture improvements such as pore tightening, shine reduction, and a more even complexion.You can also expect it.
By improving the skin texture along the jawline and under the chin, a synergistic effect is created that makes the tightening effect stand out even more.
Who Botox Lift is Recommended For and Who It Isn't Recommended For
| Recommended by | Not recommended for |
| For those concerned about sagging along the jawline Those whose mouth corners droop, often appearing displeased For those concerned about horizontal or vertical wrinkles on the neck Those who are hesitant about surgery involving a scalpel but wish to have a facelift For those seeking treatments with minimal downtime | Individuals with significant sagging Those with significant excess skin Individuals with a very high body fat percentage Persons at risk for contraindications |
For individuals with significant sagging, particularly when caused by excess skin or subcutaneous fat, Botox Lift alone may not provide sufficient results.
It is important to undergo an examination to determine the cause of your sagging and confirm suitability.
Contraindications/persons requiring caution
- Pregnant and lactating women: contraindicated because safety for the fetus and infant has not been established; contraception is required for 3 months after surgery
- Allergy to botulinum toxin: contraindicated in patients with a history of previous allergies
- Neuromuscular diseases: contraindicated in patients with myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Lambert-Eaton syndrome
- Specific drugs taken: aminoglycoside antibiotics and muscle relaxants require caution
- Blood coagulation disorders: increased risk of bleeding
- Immunosuppressed state: need to consider risk of infection
- Infection/inflammation at the injection site: reduced treatment efficacy, risk of spreading infection
- Under 18 years: should be avoided because safety has not been established
For other details, please contact the clinic.
Flow of treatment
You can easily make reservations with your mobile phone.
You can make a reservation for a date and time that suits you via our online reservation system or by phone.
Both new and returning patients can make appointments 24 hours a day.
This is a "smart" and easy receptionist service that can be completed immediately by the clinic's IT system by simply providing your name.
When you come to the clinic, simply tell us your name at the reception desk. First-time visitors will be asked to fill out a brief medical questionnaire.
Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have during the counseling session. Please be assured that there is no pushy sales.
After disinfection, confirm the position by making an expression that tightens the mouth area and reveals the vertical creases of the platysma muscle, then mark the area.
Cooling or topical anesthesia will be applied as needed.
Adjust the dosage according to symptoms, communicate with the patient throughout the procedure, and administer multiple small injections at intervals of approximately 1.0 to 1.5 cm.
Estimated time: Approximately 10 to 20 minutes
We will explain in detail about the care of the treated area and precautions for daily life.
Additionally, we recommend appropriate home care from a preventive and maintenance perspective, including oral medications and skincare products that can help alleviate your concerns.
You can resume your daily routine immediately after the procedure. Makeup may be applied to the treated area starting the next morning.
If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Pain and Countermeasures for Botox Lift
Since Botox Lift is an injection-based treatment, many people may be concerned about how much it hurts.
The treatment causes only a slight prickling sensation.A single puncture is not unbearable, but if it covers a large area, it may feel painful.
Our hospital implements various measures and strategies to minimize patient discomfort as much as possible.
- Anesthetic cream (topical anesthetic)
- Cooling
- ultra-fine needle
- Adjustment of formulation injection speed
Topical anesthesia (anesthetic cream) involves applying a cream containing a local anesthetic agent to the treatment area to numb the surface layer of the skin. Allowing sufficient time for the cream to absorb reduces the prickling sensation during needle insertion.
Cooling involves thoroughly chilling the skin with ice packs or similar cooling agents immediately before injection. This suppresses pain stimuli and reduces discomfort. It also helps reduce the risk of bruising by constricting blood vessels.
Ultra-fine needles are used because thinner needles offer less resistance when passing through the skin, making them less likely to cause pain. Our clinic selects ultra-fine needles based on suitability for each patient.
Maintaining a steady, slow injection speed reduces tenderness and discomfort. We proceed at a comfortable pace while communicating with you throughout the process.
The perception of pain and the effectiveness of anesthesia vary from person to person. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Downtime, Side Effects, and Risks
Common Downtime Symptoms and Measures
- Symptoms: swelling, redness, and mild pain at the injection site
- Duration: several hours to several days
- Remedy: Cooling (pain, internal bleeding), makeup (redness, internal bleeding)
There is little to no impact on daily life.These symptoms are temporary and will improve over time.
After treatment, you may experience mild muscle soreness, tightness, or discomfort, which typically subsides within a few days to a week. Redness and stinging should improve within 24 to 48 hours at most. Mild swelling, puffiness, and tenderness usually resolve within a few days.
Bruises initially appear purple, gradually turning yellowish as they fade, and are usually absorbed and disappear within about one to two weeks. Most bruises are light enough to be concealed with makeup, butGiven the extensive area involved, we will develop a treatment plan considering neck exposure and lifestyle factors..
Applying moderate cold to the affected area can help alleviate pain and prevent bruising.
Risk｜Suppression of facial expressions and movement
Botox is a drug that inhibits muscle movement, so depending on how the effects manifest, changes in facial expressions may occur.
If it works too well
Overdosing can cause the medication to spread beyond its intended area, potentially leading to swallowing difficulties or weakened neck muscles. It may also spread to the submandibular glands, causing dry mouth. To prevent such issues, our clinic recommends starting with a slightly lower dose initially and adding more later if necessary.
The effects of Botox Lift peak after one month and gradually subside.
If the effect is weak
Muscle strength varies from person to person, so the planned dosage may sometimes feel insufficient. In such cases, we can assess your condition two weeks or more after the treatment and make adjustments through additional injections.
If asymmetry occurs
If the product spreads to the depressor anguli oris muscle due to over-injection, it can lead to an asymmetrical smile. Should noticeable asymmetry develop after treatment, additional injections can be used to restore balance.
If you notice any concerning changes in your facial appearance, do not make your own judgment. Be sure to consult the clinic where you received the treatment.
Rare complications
Although the frequency is very low, the risk of complications such as the following is not zero.
allergic reaction
You may experience an allergic reaction to the ingredients contained in Botox®.
If you experience symptoms such as severe redness, swelling, itching, or hives, please contact the clinic immediately.
infection
In very rare cases, bacteria may enter through the injection site and cause an infection. If the injection site becomes red and swollen, and the heat or pain persists, it may be a sign of infection.
Please contact the clinic as treatment is required.
Aftercare｜What You Can Do to Enhance the Treatment Effects of Botox Lift
- Do not touch, rub, or apply pressure immediately after treatment.
- Refrain from activities that promote blood circulation (vigorous exercise, saunas, long baths, alcohol consumption) for a certain period.
- Enhance moisturizing and UV protection
- Clenching Countermeasures
- Avoid slouching
- Review lifestyle habits such as sleep, nutrition, and smoking cessation
Basic Rules for Same Day to 48 Hours
- Do not touch, knead, or apply pressure to the treatment area more than necessary.
- Maintain cleanliness; wash face with lukewarm water Use low-irritation skincare products Gently press towel to remove moisture
- Limit cooling to short periods only when necessary. Do not apply ice directly.
Impact on Daily Life
- On the day: Showers available
- The next day: Makeup is permitted starting the next morning.
- For about one week: Avoid saunas, long baths, and strenuous exercise.
By keeping the above points in mind, the recovery process will proceed smoothly and the effectiveness will be less likely to be hindered.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Botox Lift
| Advantages | Demerit |
| Treatment without surgery Short treatment time Little or no downtime Natural change | Effects are not permanent. It takes time for the effect to appear. Regular treatment is necessary Long-term costs are incurred |
Duration of Effect and Maintenance
After receiving treatment, when will the effects start to show, and how long will they last? This is one of the most important points to consider.
- Timeframe for results to appear: 1 week later
- Peak effect: Approximately one month later
- Duration of effect: Approximately 3 to 6 months; not permanent
- Recommended treatment interval: every 3 to 6 months
The effects of Botox are not permanent.
Over time, muscle movement gradually returns, and the effects slowly diminish. The duration varies from person to person and depends on muscle strength and lifestyle habits.
Guidelines for considering the next treatment
- When I feel my jawline has started to return to its original shape
- When you start to feel your mouth corners drooping
To maintain the effects, it is ideal to receive the next treatment before the effects completely wear off and return to the original state.
However, receiving treatments frequently at intervals shorter than three months to prolong the effect is not recommended. This is because it may increase the risk of antibodies developing, making the treatment less effective. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Fees and Units: How They Work
The cost of Botox lifts varies by clinic. Let's understand why prices differ and how fees are determined.
Major Factors Affecting Rates
- Type of formulation used: Whether it is an approved drug or not, cost differences
- Characteristics of the treatment area, required number of units: Muscle strength, degree of sagging
- Clinic policies and environment: Aftercare, location, advertising expenses
It is important to choose a reliable medical institution by comprehensively considering these factors, rather than selecting solely based on low price.
Recommended dosage (unit)
The physician observes the patient's facial movements to determine which muscles to treat, the injection depth, and the appropriate dosage.
The amount of botulinum toxin is expressed in "units," and the number of units used affects the cost. The typical range for a Botox Lift is approximately 40 to 80 units.At our clinic, the price for Botox Lift is clearly stated as 40 units.
Comparison with Other Aesthetic Treatments and Compatibility
There are various options for sagging skin treatment besides Botox Lift. Here, we explain the differences from representative treatments and whether they can be combined.
| treatment | Primary indications | mechanism of action | Duration | Pain | Down time | concurrent use |
| Botox Lift | Mild to moderate sagging, neck wrinkles, drooping corners of the mouth | Inhibit muscle function and lift | 3-6 months | 軽 | None to a few days | 'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school) |
| Jaw Botox | Prominent jawline | Atrophy the masseter muscle | 3-6 months | 軽 | almost never | 'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school) |
| thread lifting | Moderate sagging, nasolabial folds, marionette lines | Physically lift the tissue with thread | 1 to 2 years | During the procedure, local anesthesia is used. | 1 to 2 weeks | period |
| HIFU | Sagging, skin tightening | Contracting the SMAS layer using thermal energy | Six months to one year | Light to moderate (depending on the area) | None to a few days | 'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school) |
| Facelift surgery | Severe sagging, excess skin | Lift the SMAS layer and remove excess skin | 5 to 10 years | Strong Local Anesthesia | 1 month or more | weak |
Jaw Botox
This is the same Botox injection, but its purpose is to reduce the masseter muscle (the jawline muscle) for a slimmer face. It is suitable when the cause of a sagging jawline is "muscle development."
Combining it with Botox Lift (platysma) can help achieve a sharper facial contour.
For more information on Botox injections, including Botox for the jawline, please see the article below.
Thread lift
This treatment involves inserting special barbed threads under the skin to physically lift sagging areas. It provides a more direct lifting effect than Botox lifts, but tends to have a longer downtime.
When used in combination with Botox Lift, the threads lift the tissue while Botox suppresses downward vectors, creating a synergistic effect.
For more information about thread lifts, please see the article below.
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
This non-surgical facelift uses ultrasound energy to tighten the SMAS fascia through thermal energy. It delivers lifting effects from the underlying structure.
Botox Lift and HIFU work on different layers, making them a highly compatible combination. Combination treatments like tightening the underlying structure with HIFU and refining surface lines with Botox Lift are popular.
Facelift surgery
This is a surgical procedure that lifts the SMAS fascia and removes excess skin.
This is the most fundamental and highly effective treatment for sagging skin, but it involves a long recovery period and carries a risk of scarring.
Suitable for those with severe sagging.
FAQ
- How much pain is there? Is anesthesia necessary?
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It's only a slight prickling sensation. We provide pre-procedure cooling and anesthetic cream, so please rest assured.
- Is there any downtime? Do I need to take time off work?
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There is minimal downtime, and no rest period is required. Bruising may occur rarely, but it can be easily concealed with makeup. Makeup can be applied starting the day after the procedure.
- How many units of Botox Lift are typically needed?
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The recommended range is 40 to 80 units, but the optimal amount varies depending on each individual's facial condition. Your physician will determine the appropriate amount after consultation.
- When will I start to feel the effects?
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Effects begin to appear approximately one week after treatment and reach their peak after about one month.
- Is there any effect even after just one session?
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Yes, you can experience a lifting effect even after just one treatment.
- How long do the effects last? Also, how often should I receive treatment?
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The effects typically last for about 3 to 6 months. To maintain the results, we recommend continuing treatment.
- Can it be used in combination with other treatments?
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Yes, it can be used in combination with thread lifts and HIFU. Please consult your physician regarding the optimal combination.
- Can I receive treatment even if I'm pregnant?
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No. We cannot provide treatment to individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety has not been established.
- Can men also get Botox lifts?
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Yes. However, men may require a higher dosage than women due to their greater muscle mass.
Key Points for Choosing a Clinic
To achieve satisfactory results with Botox Lift and avoid situations where you feel it "failed," there are key points we want patients themselves to be aware of.
- Is the number of cases high? Are the reviews favorable?
- Is this a fair price?
- Is the formulation being used appropriate?
- Have you been informed about whether you are a candidate for Botox Lift?
- Were you able to share your desired outcome with the doctor?
- Did you find the explanation of the appropriate number of units convincing?
- Were you properly informed about not only the benefits but also the downtime, risks, and side effects?
- In the unlikely event that something happens, can you consult someone immediately?
Choosing a reliable clinic and doctor who can address these points is the most crucial key to avoiding failure.
Types and Characteristics of Botulinum Toxin Preparations
"Botox" is actually the brand name of Allergan's product. Although it is used as a generic term, various manufacturers produce and sell botulinum toxin preparations.
The two formulations available at Smart Skin Clinic are Botox Vista® and Botulax®.
Both can be fully effective when used appropriately, but they differ in their approval status and characteristics.
Our doctors listen to your concerns and wishes during a consultation and suggest the most appropriate formulation.
Botox Vista® (Allergan Inc. / USA)
This is the only formulation in Japan approved by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for the treatment of glabellar lines and crow's feet.
It has a long track record around the world,Highly reliable in safety and effectivenessIt is characterized by the following features. It is recommended for those who are undergoing treatment for the first time or for those who consider safety to be a top priority.
Reference:Botox Vista
Botulax (Hugel Company/Korea)
This formulation is approved by the MFDS (formerly KFDA) in South Korea and is unapproved in Japan.
Developed with Botox Vista® as a reference, positioned as a generic alternative,Those who value cost-effectivenessThe company has been selected by the
Reference:Buegel Company
More Information
| (data) item | Contents |
| Treatment Time | Approximately 5 to 20 minutes (excluding counseling) |
| Recommended number and frequency of treatments | Recommended intervals of approximately 3 to 6 months |
| Down time | A few hours to a few days |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | Possible |
| Make | Recommended after the next morning to prevent infection. |
| Skin care | Possible immediately after the treatment |
| Shower | Possible from the same day |
| Pain | There is a stinging pain when the needle is inserted. |
*There are individual differences.
Legal description
Botox injections include treatments using drugs that are not approved in Japan. The drugs used in the treatment have been imported on a private label basis at the discretion of our physicians.
Please refer to this page for information on medicines, etc. that should be noted for personal importation.
Ministry of Health, Labour and WelfareMedicines and Other Items Requiring Caution in Personal Importation"
For Botox Lift, visit Smart Skin Clinic
Botox Lift is an injectable treatment that naturally lifts sagging skin from the jawline to the neck.
However, depending on the degree of sagging, other treatments may be more suitable.
"Can my sagging skin be improved with a Botox lift?" "What exactly is the cost?" If you have questions or concerns like these, please come in for a free consultation at our clinic.
Smart Skin Clinic performs over 10,000 injection-based procedures annually. Our pricing is transparent, eliminating unnecessary costs. We use medications approved by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and by public agencies overseas.
We will never pressure you into treatment simply because you've had a consultation. Our experienced doctors will carefully examine your current facial condition and recommend the most suitable treatment plan for you.
Reference
Clinic List
Jimbocho Institute
〒101-0054
EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception), 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 7F
Business hours: Monday-Friday 11:00-20:00 / Saturday and Sunday 10:00-19:00
Yokohama Institute of Technology
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Bldg. 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Business hours: 10:00-19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a physician supervised by Smart Skin Clinic.
This page was revised and enacted in June 2018. Medical Advertising Guidelines We produce and provide information based on
- Scope of supervision: treatment description, risks and side effects, price labeling
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025