Key Takeaways
- MINT™ threads are dissolvable threads with barbs, designed to anchor within the skin’s layers. During a consultation, we can explore how they are used.
- Understand the process and what to expect during and after your session.
- Discuss how these consultations can support the skin’s natural processes.
- MINT™ is an Australian TGA-approved product, and its characteristics and safety profile will be discussed during your consultation.
- Dr. Barney Gordon is the exclusive provider of consultations involving MINT™ threads at Shellharbour Skin.
A consultation for non-surgical lifting involves exploring the use of MINT™ (Minimally Invasive Non-Surgical Threads). The threads are made from a sterile and biodegradable material called PDO (Polydioxanone), which is also used for sutures in medical settings. MINT™ threads are designed with barbs that anchor into the skin tissue to provide support. During a consultation, we can discuss how this process is designed to support the skin’s natural functions and explore the potential timeline and what you might expect.
MINT™ is an Australian TGA-approved product and has been the subject of clinical studies, which we can discuss with you in relation to your suitability.
Table – Non-Surgical Lifting Consultations at a Glance
Areas of Discussion: Concerns related to the appearance of skin laxity in the jowl, cheeks, and jawline.
Consultation Time: Approximately 60 minutes for a session discussing a minimum of 12 MINT™ lifting threads.
Number of Sessions Typically Discussed: 1
Discussion Points: The characteristics and typical lifespan of the biodegradable product will be discussed.
Post-Consultation Experience & Comfort: Expect a potential downtime of 1-2 weeks. For your comfort, we can discuss options such as local anaesthetic and happy gas.
Cost Guide: $$$
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect?
Your consultation and session will be conducted by Dr Barney Gordon in a sterile medical theatre environment. Our medical team takes great care to maintain a safe setting throughout the session. Your doctor will insert the discussed number of threads under the skin in the selected location and will fix the threads to specific anchor points. These anchor points are areas that may be more prone to swelling after the session.
Immediately following the session, you can expect some swelling and bruising to begin. The full experience of these effects will become apparent over the following days and typically take 2-4 weeks to settle. The insertion of threads may cause a sensation of rippling under the skin, which some patients may notice. This is an expected part of the process and typically settles within 2-4 weeks. If you experience other symptoms, such as significant redness, tenderness, or pain, this may indicate a possible reaction or infection. Should you notice these symptoms, please contact our clinic immediately.
What is the downtime?
Following the session, patients may experience bruising and swelling, which usually resolves within a few weeks. Some patients may notice raised bumps or puckering on the skin. These are usually not cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, tenderness, or pain, which may indicate a possible severe allergic reaction or infection. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to contact our clinic immediately for guidance.
What is the cost of a Non-Surgical Lifting Consultation?
The cost can vary from one person to another and depends on the specific consultation plan recommended by your treating clinician to address your areas of concern. We always recommend an initial consultation in our clinic to determine the total estimated cost of your session. During this meeting, the treating clinician can assess the areas you wish to discuss and develop a customised plan based on your personal objectives, health, and concerns. Prices start from $2495.
What is the experience and aftercare for a Non-Surgical Lifting Consultation?
The longevity of the experience can vary significantly between individuals. This is due to factors like the rate at which a person’s body metabolises the threads. During your consultation, we will discuss the nature of the product and the factors that can influence your individual experience. To support the recovery process and optimise your experience, your doctor will provide you with a follow-up plan, which may include:
- Do not touch the skin in the post-session period.
- Do not wear makeup for 48 hours after your session.
- Do not exercise for 1 week after your session.
- Do not use active skin care products for at least five days after your session.
- Avoid skin consultations that may cause stress on the skin, such as microdermabrasion, skin needling, and facial massage.
- Stay away from extreme temperatures, such as saunas, hydrotherapy, ice baths, or hot yoga for 72 hours.
Are there any risks or complications associated with a Non-Surgical Lifting Consultation?
Patients may experience bruising and swelling, which usually resolves within 4-5 days, but a full recovery may take a week or two.
For any cosmetic or medical consultation, it is important to understand the associated risks and potential complications before making a decision. Consultations of this nature carry the following potential risks and complications:
- Allergic reaction
- Scarring
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Bruises
- Skin discolouration
- Itching
- Redness
- Puckering of the skin
Sounds great. Where do I start?
The first step is always to register at our Shellharbour clinic for an initial consultation with our qualified clinical team. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your lifestyle and health, including your medical history, any allergies, and any medications or supplements you may be taking. It is important to mention any reactions to drugs or skin care products you may have experienced in the past and any other recent aesthetic sessions you’ve had. These factors can influence how your body might respond and what to expect during the recovery period.
If you have any concerns, the consultation is the ideal time to ask questions about the process and available options. Your clinician will ask about your current concerns and reasons for exploring cosmetic options and will evaluate the relevant area. You should discuss your aesthetic goals and what you hope to understand from the consultation. All the information you provide is essential for developing a customised plan that considers your health and concerns, ensuring the approach is aligned with your personal goals and circumstances.
If you have a question, get in touch and one of our staff will be in touch shortly.