Non-Surgical Facelift in Christchurch
Ingrid is a 55-year-old woman who has been using Botox and dermal fillers to enhance her appearance for a few years. While she has been happy with the results, she has recently noticed that her face was starting to show signs of ageing.
Specifically, Ingrid had noticed that her cheeks and jowls were beginning to sag, and her skin was not as firm as it used to be. She wanted to change this and refresh her appearance to look a bit younger and more radiant.
Ingrid decided to do some research to find out what could be causing her facial sagging and jowls. She learned that this is a common issue that many women experience as they age, due to a variety of factors such as gravity, loss of collagen and elastin, and a decrease in facial fat.
Determined to find a solution, Ingrid began exploring her options. She considered getting facelift surgery but ultimately decided that it was too invasive and risky for her liking. Instead, she decided to get some more information about the non-surgical facelift with threads.
What is a PDO Thread Lift?
PDO threads are a relatively new cosmetic procedure that involves inserting tiny threads made of a dissolvable material into the skin. The threads are strategically placed to lift and tighten sagging skin, creating a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
The benefits of PDO threads are:
- Immediate results: Unlike other cosmetic treatments, which may take several days or even weeks to show results, PDO threads provide an instant lift.
- Long-lasting effects: The threads stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen, which helps to maintain the lift for up to two years.
- Non-surgical: Unlike facelift surgery, which requires incisions and a lengthy recovery period, PDO threads are minimally invasive and require little to no downtime.
- Customizable: PDO threads can be customized to target specific areas of the face, such as the cheeks, jowls, and neck.
After doing her research, Ingrid decides to give PDO threads a try. She consults with Dr Nadja Haub at Satini Cosmetic Clinic who explains the procedure and answers all of her questions.
Before Ingrid’s PDO threads
Before the PDO thread lift, Ingrid consulted with Dr Nadja Haub. During the consultation, Dr Nadja Haub asked her about her medical history, current health status, and any concerns or goals Ingrid has regarding her appearance. She also performed a physical examination of Ingrid’s skin, facial features, and other areas of concern.
Ingrid was given detailed advice on what do to before and after the procedure. Dr Nadja Haub advised that she should have her normal breakfast on the day but avoid drinking too much coffee. Coffee has got a lot of caffeine which makes you flush and this can increase your risk to bruise.
The day before the procedure she was also given the following advice:
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Do not take any supplements with Omega 3 oil, fish oil or liver cod oil
- Do not take any anti-inflammatories.
To prevent bruising, she could apply arnica cream to her face. Please read more about how to prepare for your procedure her.
On the day of the procedure
Ingrid came a bit earlier to her appointment. This allowed the doctor to apply some numbing cream to her face which makes the procedure much more comfortable.
Step 1
Dr Nadja Haub explained the procedure to Ingrid again and made sure that she is absolutely happy and comfortable to have the treatment.
Step 2
We deeply cleansed Ingrid’s face. This reduces the risk of any infections.
Step 3
Dr Nadja Haub carefully injected local anaesthetic in the area where the threads are being placed. The goal is for Ingrid to be pain-free. It is normal to feel some pulling and pushing but it is not acceptable for any client at Satini Cosmetic Clinic to experience intolerable pain.
Step 4
The threads are carefully placed along the cheeks and lower face. The threads have got tiny, little hooks attached to them. These pierce the skin. The doctor then gently pulls the threads up and the skin attached to them will also lift.
Step 5
The doctor applies a few skin-coloured dressings that need to stay on for 48 hours.
Straight After The Non-Surgical Threadlift
We applied a few skin-coloured dressings that have to stay on for approximately 48 hours. These will hold the threads in place and help them integrate well into the tissue under the skin.
What to do After a PDO Thread Facelift
Ingrid was given some general aftercare tips to follow after a PDO thread lift:
- Apply ice to the treated area: Applying ice packs to the treated area for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and bruising.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area: Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area for the first few days after the procedure, as this can cause irritation or infection.
- Sleep on your back: Sleep on your back with your head elevated on a few pillows for the first week after the procedure. This can help reduce swelling and prevent the threads from shifting.
- Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise and other activities that may cause sweating or increased blood flow for at least a week after the procedure.
- Avoid facial treatments: Avoid facials, chemical peels, or other facial treatments for at least a month after the procedure.
- Take pain relief if needed: If you experience any pain or discomfort after the procedure, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medication such as paracetamol or codeine as directed. Do not take any anti-inflammatories as they do increase your risk to bruise.
- Attend follow-up appointments: Attend any follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
- Dental appointments: We do not recommend any dental appointments for 4 weeks after PDO threads.
2 weeks after Ingrid’s PDO Thread Facelift
Ingrid is happy with her treatment outcome. Her facial sagging had improved quite a bit and the jowls that were her main concern are almost not visible anymore. Dr Nadja Haub explained that is not unusual to lose approximately 20% of the original lift within 4 weeks of the treatment. This is because the threads soften a little under the skin.
Over the next 3 to 4 months, the threads will be absorbed. They turn into carbon dioxide which means that they are not toxic. The threads stimulate a lot of collagen under the skin which keeps your skin lifted for 12 to 18 months, sometimes a bit less and often longer than that.
How to maintain your skin after a thread lift
It is important that you look after your skin well after a thread lift. This is to further stimulate collagen and maintain the lifting effect. Here are a few tips
- Keep Your Skin Hydrated. After a PDO thread facelift, your skin may feel dry and tight. This is normal, as the procedure can cause some temporary inflammation. To help your skin heal, it’s important to keep it hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and use a moisturizer that is gentle on your skin.
- Avoid Sun Exposure. Sun exposure can damage your skin, and it can also cause inflammation and swelling, which can affect the results of your PDO thread facelift. Avoid going outside during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, to protect your skin from UV rays.
- Don’t Smoke. Smoking can have a detrimental effect on your skin’s health, as it can reduce blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin. This can slow down the healing process after a PDO thread facelift and can also cause your skin to age prematurely. If you smoke, it’s essential to quit before the procedure and avoid smoking afterwards to ensure the best results.
- Eat a Healthy Diet. Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help your skin heal and maintain its health. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats in your diet. Avoid processed food or food high in unhealthy, saturated fats.
In summary
The PDO thread procedure is a popular alternative to surgical facelifts and other invasive cosmetic procedures, as it provides natural-looking results without the need for extensive recovery time. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced cosmetic professional to determine if the PDO thread procedure is the right option for your specific needs and goals.
If you would like to get information about the innovative PDO thread lift, please contact Dr Nadja Haub at Satini Cosmetic Clinic.