Collagen Stimulating, Skin tightening, Lifting Procedures and Devices
High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a cosmetic procedure considered by some to be the leading non-surgical face and lifting treatment. It uses focused ultrasound waves and controlled heating to stimulate and tighten collagen as well as the associated underlying ligaments. It is a great option for patients looking to increase skin tone and to reduce skin laxity and is safe for use anywhere around the face or neck. This treatment is ideally used for people 30 years and older, with mild to moderate skin sagging, not yet wanting a full surgical face lift. The number of treatments required varies, however people who are heavily photo-damaged or who have a high degree of loose skin may need several treatments before seeing r the desired esults. Other than mild discomfort, post treatment redness or swelling, the side effects of HIFU are minimal. Most patients are able to return to work with their normal activities immediately after. Results are usually evident around three months, continuing up to 12 to 18 months. At that point many patients will elect to have a top up treatment to maximise their results.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelets are component of the blood that play a major role in wound healing. Platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) is gaining traction in a number of areas of medicine including dermatology. In order to extract the platelets, blood is taken form the patient and spun down to separate it into its components, one of which is plasma. This is then reinjected into the skin, harnessing the power of the patient’s own platelet cells to promote skin rejuvenation, reduce wrinkles, increase collagen production and diminish acne scars.
It can also be injected into the scalp to promote hair regrowth in both men and women with androgenic alopecia. Many people may recognise it as part of the ‘vampire facial’, a spa based treatment made popular by celebrities, where PRP is combined with microneedling.
Overall PRP is very safe with only minor redness and mild to moderate swelling in the area of treatment. Patients are able to return to their normal activities soon after. Usually 2-3 sessions are needed 6 weeks apart. Results appear within 4-6 weeks with the full effect apparent in up to 2-3 months.
DermaPen Microneedling
Microneedling is a technique that has been used in the cosmetic industry for many years. It involves the repeated puncturing of the skin with tiny needles to create wounds that stimulate the skin’s own repair mechanisms leading to a production of collagen. It can deliver significant and long-lasting results and is often used to improve the appearance of large pores, fine lines, wrinkles, scars and stretchmarks. It can also be combined with platelet rich plasma (PRP) for the ultimate facial experience. Given that microneedling does not involve the production of heat it is useful for the treatment of diverse skin types. The side effects associated with micro needling are minimal including mild discomfort and skin redness that can last for a few days to a week. Results are usually seen around 3 months and many people elect for a series of treatments to secure the best outcome.
Radiofrequency Skin Needling (RF Microneedling)
Radiofrequency microneedling provides all of the benefits of traditional microneedling but with the added benefit of radiofrequency energy. RF is a novel fractional treatment designed to stimulate collagen growth and to address the signs of ageing including fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, mild skin laxity and photo damage. It is also very useful in the treatment of acne scars. It works by controlled damage to the deeper layers of the skin (dermis) through the production of heat delivered by fine needles. Overall radio frequency micro needling is a safe treatment for all skin types and tones with minimal risk of pigmentation. The main side-effects include some mild discomfort during the procedure and some redness that may last for a few days to a week. Most people are able to return to work or their normal activities immediately after the procedure. 2-3 treatments sessions are typically recommended for optimal results. These can be performed 4-6 weeks apart. Results are usually seen around three months with long lasting outcomes reported. Some patients may elect for once to twice yearly maintenance treatments. As with traditional microneedling, it is important to recognise that devices bought online are not as safe or efficacious as those delivered by experienced skin specialists.
Tixel (Mezotix)
Tixel is recently developed facial rejuvenation device that uses thermo-mechanical ablative technology. Sometimes referred to as the ‘400 degrees’ facial, its nickname is derived from the titanium tip that has multiple pyramid shaped spikes, which are heated to 400 degrees Celsius. The depth of penetration and treatment time of this procedure can be adjusted depending on the desired outcome. It is sometimes combined with topical medications for the treatment of mild scarring or pigmentation. Tixel is safe procedure, tolerated by all skin types and suitable for use on all areas of the face and neck. The main side effect is some post procedural redness that may last for a few days. A series of treatments, up to 3-6 is best, however most people report a benefit after just one.
PDO Smooth Threads
PDO Smooth threads are a relatively new procedure to Australia but have been used in Korea, the United States and Europe for some time. Made of absorbable polydioxanone suture material (PDS), they can be inserted anywhere on the face and body to stimulate collagen production. Ideal for wrinkled, crepey skin, this treatment produces a tightening, thickening and rejuvenating effect. There is minimal risk associated with this procedure and patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately after. Results last 6-12 months. Stacked treatments can be undertaken for a booster effect.
To make a booking to discuss one of the above cosmetic procedures, please call us on (07) 5597 7170 or email reception@skincentre.com.au
Note, cosmetic dermatology does not attract a Medicare rebate. Please specify when making your booking that you would like to see us to discuss aesthetics.