Dermal filler treatments have become an integral part of aesthetic care. More and more individuals in Singapore are seeking these treatments to enhance their facial features.

If you are one of those people, you may be wondering just how fillers work and what to expect before and after the cosmetic filler procedure. We’re here to answer all your questions with this handy guide.

What Are Dermal Fillers and How Do They Work?

As we age, our skin gradually loses collagen, which reduces firmness and elasticity. This natural process often results in sagging, wrinkles, and a hollowed appearance. To address these visible signs of ageing, many people turn to non-surgical aesthetic solutions.

Dermal fillers are minimally invasive treatments where aesthetic doctors inject filler substances into the skin to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours for a more youthful, refreshed look.

Strategic placement of cosmetic fillers can:

• Lift the cheeks to restore youthful volume and contour.
• Soften smile lines (nasolabial folds) for a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
• Plump the lips to enhance fullness and definition.
• Refine the jawline and chin to improve facial symmetry and structure.
• Deliver natural-looking results that enhance features while maintaining facial harmony.

Types of Dermal Fillers Available in Singapore

In Singapore, clinics offer several types of dermal fillers, each suited for specific treatment areas and outcomes. The ideal choice depends on your facial anatomy, skin condition, and aesthetic goals.

PCL Filler (Polycaprolactone-based filler)

This collagen-stimulating filler adds volume and encourages long-term skin regeneration. It suits individuals seeking gradual, natural improvements in skin quality and facial contours. PCL fillers can last up to two years or more.

PDLLA Filler (Poly-D, L-lactic acid-based filler)

PDLLA fillers stimulate collagen production, making them ideal for those who want a more youthful, lifted look over time. Aesthetic doctors commonly use them on the cheeks, temples, and nasolabial folds. The results gradually improve and can last over a year.

CaHA Filler (Calcium Hydroxylapatite-based filler)

Designed to replenish volume and boost collagen, CaHA fillers provide natural, long-lasting improvements in facial contours and skin elasticity. Often used for cheeks, folds, and jawline, with results lasting up to 18 months.

Korean Filler (EPTQ)

EPTQ is a Korean hyaluronic acid filler designed for safety, elasticity, and smooth texture. Practitioners use it for facial volumisation, wrinkle reduction, and lip enhancement. It provides immediate, natural-looking results with minimal downtime.

Why Choose Cosmetic Fillers for Facial Rejuvenation in Singapore?

• Minimally invasive: Aesthetic doctors administer dermal fillers through small injections, making the procedure more approachable for those not ready for surgery.
• Quick and convenient: Most filler appointments last only 30 to 60 minutes. Many clients fit them into lunch breaks or between errands.
• Minimal downtime: Most people return to daily activities right after treatment. Any swelling or bruising typically resolves within a few days.
• Instant results: Improvements are visible after treatment and continue to settle over a few days.
• Reversible: If needed, hyaluronic acid fillers can be safely dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

What to Expect During and After a Cosmetic Filler Treatment in Singapore

The Procedure

Consultation and Assessment
Your doctor begins by evaluating your facial structure and skin condition. Together, you’ll discuss concerns and goals to create a treatment plan that aligns with your desired outcome.

Preparation and Numbing
Your doctor applies an anaesthetic cream to the treatment areas to minimise discomfort. The numbing effect takes a few minutes.

Precise Injection of the Filler
Your doctor then carefully injects the dermal filler into targeted areas, strategically placing it to accentuate your natural contours.

Duration of the Procedure
The session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many areas are treated.

Sensation During Treatment
Most patients report mild discomfort, often describing it as a slight pinch or pressure.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Tips

After treatment, you may notice mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites. These effects usually fade within a few days. To support your recovery, your doctor may recommend that you:

• Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24–48 hours.
• Refrain from touching or massaging the treated areas unnecessarily.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if needed.

How Long Does It Take to See Results and How Long Do They Last?

You should see visible results right after the treatment. After the swelling subsides, the final results typically appear within one to two weeks.

Depending on the filler type and treatment area, your results can last from six months to two years. With regular touch-ups, you can maintain your fresh and rejuvenated appearance.

Common Treatment Areas for Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers can be used on various facial areas. Here are some of the most common treatment zones:

Cheeks
Cheek fillers can restore volume lost due to ageing, creating a lifted, youthful appearance. They help define your cheekbones and improve facial contours, giving you that coveted V-shaped face popular in Korean beauty.

Temples
As we age, temple hollowing can create a gaunt appearance. Temple fillers can restore volume in this area, creating a more balanced and youthful look while smoothing the transition between your forehead and cheekbones.

Forehead
Forehead fillers can treat wrinkles and create a more harmonious profile. They can correct shallow areas or asymmetry in the forehead region.

Nasolabial Folds
These lines running from your nose to the corners of your mouth can be softened with strategic filler placement, creating a refreshed appearance.

Lips
Lip fillers can enhance volume, define the lip border, and improve symmetry while maintaining a natural look.

Chin and Jawline
Fillers in these areas can improve facial proportions and create a defined jawline.

Under-Eye Area
Careful placement of fillers can help reduce the appearance of under-eye hollows and dark circles.

Why Choose Ozhean Zoey?

At Ozhean Zoey, we provide aesthetic care rooted in Korean skincare science. Our trained professionals specialise in facial anatomy and have the experience to administer dermal fillers safely.

We pride ourselves on our personalised approach. Every treatment plan is tailored to your facial structure and beauty goals. Whether you’re new to fillers or familiar with them, we’re ready to help.

Dermal Fillers in Singapore

With the right guidance and a personalised plan, you can achieve your aesthetic goals with dermal fillers.

At Ozhean Zoey, we believe in enhancing your features, not changing them. Whether you’re restoring volume, refining contours, or softening lines, our experienced team will support you every step of the way.

Book your appointment for dermal fillers today.

Frequently Asked Questions

In a city where long work hours, stress, and constant sun exposure take a toll on your skin, signs of ageing can show up faster than expected. That’s why more people in Singapore are turning to anti-ageing treatments—not always to chase youth, but to maintain healthy, confident skin that reflects how they feel inside.

From non-invasive procedures to more intensive therapies, here’s a detailed look at what works.

What Are Anti-Ageing Treatments and How Do They Work?

Anti-ageing treatments are designed to slow down or reverse the visible signs of ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and skin laxity. Popular options used to treat various skin concerns include:

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing delivers controlled pulses of light energy to the skin’s surface and deeper layers. The focused heat ablates (removes) the topmost damaged cells, smoothing fine lines and pigmentation, while simultaneously heating the dermis to stimulate new collagen formation. As the skin heals, its texture becomes more even, pores appear smaller, and wrinkles soften.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable gels commonly composed of hyaluronic acid that restore volume lost through ageing. When placed beneath hollowed cheeks, sunken temples, or deep nasolabial folds, they lift and plump the skin from within. The restored fullness clears creases and contours the face, reversing the “sunken” look of volume loss.

Microneedling Radiofrequency (RF)

Microneedling RF combines mechanical stimulation, tiny needles creating micro-injuries, with radiofrequency energy that heats the deeper dermal layers. The controlled injury triggers the skin’s natural wound-healing process, driving collagen and elastin production. Over a series of sessions, this process tightens lax skin, refines texture, and diminishes acne scars and fine lines.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use acids (such as glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid) to exfoliate the outermost layers of dead and damaged skin. By accelerating cell turnover, peels reveal fresher skin underneath and gradually fade sunspots, melasma, and dull patches. Deeper peels can also prompt dermal remodelling, improving skin firmness and reducing wrinkle depth.

Ultrasound Lifting (e.g., Ultherapy PRIME)

These energy-based lifts deliver focused ultrasound beneath the skin’s surface without damaging the epidermis. The heat energy contracts existing collagen fibres and stimulates neocollagenesis (new collagen formation) in the deeper layers. The result is a gradual lifting and tightening of areas prone to sagging, such as the jawline, neck, and brows, over the ensuing months.

Benefits of Anti-Ageing Skin Treatments

• Visibly firmer, plumper skin
• Radiant, even-toned complexion
• Longer-lasting hydration and resilience
• Sustained protection against future ageing
• Boosted confidence in daily life

How to Choose the Right Anti-Ageing Treatment for Your Skin

Choosing the right anti-ageing treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Your skin concerns and age play a part in determining which solutions will work for you.

In your 30s – Early prevention and maintenance

This is the time when fine lines and slight dullness may begin to appear. Focus on preventive care with treatments like:

• Light chemical peels to refresh skin texture
• Antioxidant-rich facials to protect against environmental stressors
• Preventive Botox for early expression lines

In your 40s – Restoring firmness and glow

Collagen production slows down, and deeper lines or pigmentation may become visible. Treatments that work well include:

• Dermal fillers to restore lost volume
• HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) for lifting sagging skin
• Laser resurfacing to brighten dull or uneven skin tone

In your 50s and beyond – Intense rejuvenation and repair

At this stage, skin may experience sagging, deeper wrinkles, and dryness. You may benefit from:

• A combination of fillers and skin-tightening treatments
• Microneedling with PRP to stimulate healing and collagen
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) or fractional lasers for more intensive repair

What to Expect During and After an Anti-Ageing Treatment in Singapore

Most non-invasive treatments are done in the clinic and typically take 30 minutes to an hour. For example, filler injections are performed using fine needles, with results becoming visible within a few days.

Laser treatments involve cleansing the skin before applying laser pulses to targeted areas. Patients may feel warmth or a mild prickling sensation during the procedure. During microneedling and radiofrequency therapies, your doctor may use numbing cream to minimise your discomfort.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Tips

Proper aftercare maximises your results and helps ensure a smooth recovery. Here are key tips to follow after any anti-ageing procedure:

• Keep skin clean and hydrated
  Gently cleanse with a mild, non-foaming cleanser twice daily, then apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturiser to maintain your skin’s barrier and prevent dryness.
• Protect against sun exposure
  Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning—even on cloudy days—and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and avoid direct sunlight during peak UV hours (10 am–4 pm).
• Avoid harsh products and treatments
  Steer clear of retinoids, exfoliating scrubs, and strong acids for at least one week post-treatment to prevent irritation.
• Apply cold compresses as needed
  If you experience redness, swelling, or mild discomfort, use a clean, cold compress for 10–15 minutes at a time to calm inflammation.
• Follow prescribed topical or oral medications
  If your doctor provides antibiotic creams, antiviral ointments, or anti-inflammatory medication, use them exactly as directed to minimise infection risk and promote recovery.
• Keep follow-up appointments
  Attend any scheduled check-ins so your doctor can assess healing, address concerns, and adjust your maintenance plan if needed.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Anti-Ageing Treatments?

Results vary depending on the type of treatment and your skin condition. Some, like fillers, offer visible results within days. Others, such as laser resurfacing or collagen-stimulating therapies, may take a few weeks to show full effects as the skin heals and regenerates.

Generally, patients begin to notice improvements within 1–2 weeks, with full results appearing over several months. Those who maintain a regular skincare routine and follow their doctor's advice tend to see longer-lasting improvements.

Anti-Ageing Treatments and Skin Care Costs in Singapore

The cost of anti-ageing treatments in Singapore depends on the type of procedure, the clinic's reputation, the doctor's experience, and the treatment area. Here's a rough estimate:

• Dermal Fillers: SGD 600–1,200 per syringe
• Laser Resurfacing: SGD 300–1,000 per session
• Microneedling RF: SGD 400–1,200 per session
• Chemical Peels: SGD 150–500 per session
• Ultrasound Therapy (e.g. Ultherapy): SGD 2,000–4,000 per treatment

Why Choose Ozhean Zoey?

At Ozhean Zoey, we specialise in personalised anti-ageing treatments to enhance your natural beauty. Guided by a team of experienced aesthetic doctors and inspired by Korean beauty techniques, we tailor each treatment plan to suit your skin's needs and concerns.

Ozhean Zoey combines medical professionalism with aesthetic artistry to deliver effective results. Our commitment to transparency, safety, and comfort guides every treatment we do.

Get Anti-Ageing Skin Treatments with Ozhean Zoey

Embracing anti-ageing treatments is more than a quest for youthful skin—it's an investment in your confidence and well-being. At Ozhean Zoey, our team will guide you through a comprehensive consultation, covering your anti-ageing goals, medical history, and skin profile before recommending the ideal treatment plan.

Ready to turn back the clock? Book your anti-ageing treatment with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cinematic imagery in weddings and 5-star photoshoot events was once an exclusive domain for celebrities and the red carpet. But fast forward today, when we all love a nice touch of luxury in many of our life’s biggest moments, looking like a celebrity in photoshoots and wedding events is no longer limited to celebrities alone. This trend paved the way for most people to feel the need to invest in personal care in order to prepare themselves for big events such as weddings or personal photoshoots.

Preparing yourself before having your photos taken professionally is more than just great hair and flawless makeup. It all starts with the main canvas — your body itself! If you’re wondering how one can look sculpted and radiant in photos, you have landed on the right post. Believe us when we say Photoshop can’t always do the trick. If you want to look au naturel, you might need to get aesthetic treatments prior to your planned shoot.

Read on to know what treatment to get and when to get it.

Why Timing is Crucial When Getting Aesthetic Treatments

Imagine getting an intensive facial treatment or injectable fillers just a day before your photoshoot — all that redness and needle marks will make a special appearance in your photos too! Not only that, but not scheduling your aesthetic treatments properly will also defeat the purpose of wanting to look good in photos, because your treatment may not even show results just yet on the day of your wedding or photoshoot.

While it’s true that many aesthetic treatments today offer visible results, the effective result still greatly differs if you give it the right window for the enhancements to fully settle into their most natural state. One example would be sculpting procedures and injectables, wherein results are often achieved gradually through a series of sessions.

Any aesthetic treatment, when booked too close to the big day or to your planned shoot, may pose the risk of swelling, redness, or premature results.

Do Thorough and Advanced Planning

Planning your aesthetic treatments in advance gives your skin and body breathing space to recover and for the procedures to take effect. Proper scheduling is also not just for recovery, but also for necessary follow-up sessions. Here are some tips to take into consideration to make your planning more efficient:

• Identify your target concerns. 
• Book a consultation with a qualified aesthetic doctor and communicate the results you want to achieve.
• Ask your doctor about each of the suggested treatments’ downtime and create a timeline leading to your wedding or photoshoot day. For instance, a fractional laser treatment will cause redness and peeling for a week, while collagen stimulators like Ultherapy Prime will have minimal downtime.

It’s usually ideal to begin your prep journey 3 to 6 months ahead of your wedding or planned photoshoot, for this will give you enough time to experience the range of benefits from your treatments. Another thing you can try when planning your aesthetic treatments is to go for one session first to see how your body will react to it. Usually, the first session tells you what you need, and this way, you won’t be locked into just one route. You’ll have the flexibility of time to see what works and what doesn’t.

Determine Your Target Concerns

When you have the budget and time, it’s pretty tempting to have a little bit of everything to make sure you look great in every aspect. It’s not bad to want to try everything, but determining your top concerns and focusing on them will make your aesthetic prep and reduce stress.

If you’re looking at this table and thinking, “Oh, I think I’m experiencing that.”, then that is where you begin. Knowing what your face and body need will help you build a treatment plan for yourself. This is also something you can communicate with your doctor so he/she can help match you with the aesthetic treatments that will help solve your concerns. Our doctors at Ozhean Zoey will help you understand why these concerns occur and recommend treatments that will offer you subtle refinement to enhance — not change — your most flattering features.

Now, let’s talk about the treatments you may want to consider getting to efficiently address your face, skin, and body concerns.

Face Sculpt & Lift

Looking sculpted and well-contoured is very important in looking good in photos. Photography lights and even regular camera flashes can really catch every angle of your face. So if you’re looking into a more defined facial profile, here are the treatments that help firm up your skin and enhance the contours of your face. This is also ideal for those who notice sagging and wrinkles in their skin.

Ultherapy Prime

Best scheduled: 3 to 4 months before the event

Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive procedure that aims to lift and firm the skin by using micro-focused ultrasound to stimulate collagen. This is ideal for those who have hollowness on their cheeks or those who have mild sagging in different areas of the face. 

Just like all collagen stimulators, they work deep into the skin, allowing the body to naturally produce collagen but in a levelled-up phase. You can see visible results after the treatment, but it’ll improve over 3 months as collagen production continues.

Supreme HIFU

Best scheduled: 2 to 3 months ahead

This aesthetic treatment uses a combination of Liftera2’s Double Lines HIFU technology with the Long Pulse Collagen Laser to give your skin a lasting lift and deep collagen stimulation. Supreme HIFU targets loose skin in the face, especially around the jawline and double chin, while also giving your skin a radiant, youthful glow. 

This also has minimal downtime, but it needs a couple of weeks to allow time for collagen remodelling. This will make your features look more prominent and sculpted.

Monopolar Radiofrequency (RF)

Best scheduled: 1 to 2 months in advance

This treatment employs radiofrequency energy to encourage the body to naturally regenerate collagen. This is another non-invasive aesthetic treatment that proves that you don’t really have to undergo any surgery just to achieve a lifted, sculpted look. Think of it as a mid-tier lift — subtle but gives impactful improvements. Apart from sculpting your natural features, it also improves skin tone and texture.

Radiant Healthy Glow

Despite vibrant lighting, do you sometimes wonder why you still look dull in photos? In that case, it’s no longer just an issue about lighting, but your skin’s lack of glow. If you’d like to look radiant with minimal makeup on for your wedding or photoshoot, here are treatments that will help restore hydration and radiance to your skin.

Skin Boosters

Best scheduled: 6 to 8 weeks prior to the event

Skin Boosters in the form of injectables are minimally invasive, as opposed to common misconceptions that anything that has to do with needles requires much downtime. While Skin Boosters have minimal downtime, they still need enough time to work their effects into your skin.

PDLLA injectables and PN Skin Booster are just examples of certain types of Skin Boosters that improve elasticity and deep hydration. They are ideal for those whose concerns are more about dullness, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores.

The PDLLA Skin Booster is a collagen treatment injected into the skin and thinning areas on the face to reverse signs of ageing. As a hybrid filler, it offers both the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid (typically found in conventional skin boosters) and the collagen-stimulating effects of Poly D-lactic acid (PDLA), a key component often found in collagen biostimulators. Patients may observe improvements in skin texture and tone, along with a more hydrated and supple appearance. Some individuals may notice a plumping effect shortly after the procedure.

The PN Skin Booster is one of those injectables that also offers effective results, as you can usually see a visibly smoother and brighter skin just after a session. This shot contains polynucleotides (PN) derived from salmon DNA, which are biocompatible with human skin.  When injected, the salmon DNA provides a 3D structure for collagen and elastin regeneration, working to repair damaged skin and stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen. Over time, it helps to rejuvenate the skin, giving it a refreshed and bright appearance.

OZ Baby Collagen

Best scheduled: 6 weeks before

This injectable collagen activates fibroblasts in the skin to boost collagen production. Like Skin Boosters, they are also minimally invasive and have minimal downtime as well. However, it’s ideal to have it 6 weeks in advance because the effect of enhanced complexion and firmness usually manifests over 4 weeks as collagen synthesis progresses.

Smooth, Ideal Skin

Rough, textured skin can easily be captured in photos, especially with flash photography! Good thing, there are treatments to work around this.  If enlarged pores and textured skin are your focus, here are the treatments to help you deal with that.

Quinta Laser

Best scheduled: The first session should be at least 2 to 3 months before

Quinta Laser uses a combination of wavelengths that directly target pigmentation, scars, and redness. It improves the skin’s overall texture after a series of sessions, as the results are going to be progressive.

Mulgwang Laser

Best scheduled: 2 weeks ahead

Fancy that Korean celebrity glass skin glow?! Here’s a treatment that can help you achieve that water glow to do a K-Drama photoshoot. The Mulgwang Laser treatment involves two laser technologies, which are the Long Pulse and Yellow Laser. This dual-laser approach helps treat the skin in multiple layers for a visible, radiant glow.

Laser treatments like the Mulgwang Laser are also minimally invasive, but since it involves heat, there might be redness and slight swelling after the procedure. If you undergo it 2 weeks before, the redness will be completely gone.

Body Treatments

Who wouldn’t want to have a well-contoured body in photos as well? Your clothes would simply look better if you feel more confident in your body, and if giving it a nicer sculpt will boost that confidence, then why not give these body-sculpting treatments a go?

These treatments don’t involve any invasive procedure or surgery, but just like the rest of the aesthetic treatments we mentioned here, they will also need a bit of time to allow your body to reflect the changes naturally.

Fat Freezing / Body Contouring

Best scheduled: 1 to 3 months before the event

Fat Freezing is also known as cryolipolysis, and from the name itself, this treatment involves freezing your fat cells in order for your body to naturally eliminate them. If you have those stubborn bulges that won’t seem to go away despite proper diet and exercise, this treatment is ideal for you. It’s great for tummy bulges, love handles, or inner thighs.

Monopolar RF for Body

Best scheduled: 2 months in advance

Monopolar RF can also be done for the body, not just the face. It gives the same lifting effect, which is ideal if you’re concerned with loose skin on areas of your body like the arms or thighs. Also, if you’d like to address skin laxity more than just fat volume, Monopolar RF makes an ideal option for you.

Conclusion: Planning backed by professionals is key

Whether it’s your big day or your most-awaited photoshoot, behind-the-scenes preparations should be carefully planned in advance to make sure you’re getting the most out of your treatments. But more than just planning, you have to plan smart by having a professional aesthetic doctor to guide you with your journey. The key is to be strategic with scheduling and timing your treatments to give you that good look.

When it comes to aesthetic treatments, it’s not always just about the finale, but also the pacing that gets you there. Consult with a doctor early, and you’ll be assured that you’ll get effective results to look your best on your special day.

The Rise of Multi-Layered Aesthetic Treatments

The world of aesthetic medicine has changed over the past two decades. Patients are no longer content with surgical procedures that require long recovery periods and carry significant risks. Instead, the trend is moving rapidly toward treatments that are minimally invasive, require little to no downtime, and provide natural-looking results.

This change is not merely anecdotal. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), non-surgical treatments like thread lifts, dermal fillers, and skin boosters have grown by over 400% since 2010. Furthermore, market research indicates that in 2023 alone, the global non-invasive aesthetic treatment market was valued at over USD 60 billion.

Projections estimate this will exceed USD 100 billion by 2030. This surge reflects not only the popularity of these treatments but also patient preference for customisable and layered treatment plans that address multiple aspects of ageing at once.

Among these, three treatments are common for facial rejuvenation:

• Thread lifts for repositioning and lifting sagging tissues
  
• Fillers for restoring volume and contour
  
• Skin boosters for enhancing skin hydration, texture, and overall health

But with the popularity of these procedures comes an important question.

The Big Question: Can Thread Lifts, Fillers, and Skin Boosters Be Combined?

At Ozhean Zoey, it’s common for patients to ask:

• Can thread lifts, fillers, and skin boosters be combined?
  
• Can they be performed in the same session?
  
• Is it safe to combine them?
  
• If so, what benefits can I expect from doing so?

These questions reflect a growing awareness among patients. More than ever, people want to understand not just what a treatment can do, but how treatments can work together to create more comprehensive, longer-lasting results. And they are right to ask. Combining treatments requires understanding how they interact, the layers of the face they target, and how to perform them safely.

Understanding Each Treatment’s Purpose and Target Area

Thread Lifts: Reposition and Lift

Thread lifting involves inserting fine, absorbable threads beneath the skin to mechanically lift sagging facial tissues. The threads are placed using blunt-tipped cannulas or fine needles and anchor into the deeper fat pads and subcutaneous tissues. Once positioned, the practitioner gently lifts the threads, physically repositioning areas such as the cheeks, jawline, brows, and neck.

But thread lifts do more than just pull skin upward. The threads also stimulate collagen production in the treated areas. Over time, this helps strengthen the skin’s structural integrity, improving firmness and elasticity.

Target area:

• Deep subcutaneous layer — lifting jowl fat pads, nasolabial fat pads, and forehead fat pads.

Key benefits:

• Visible lifting.
  
• Long-term collagen remodelling.
  
• Minimal downtime and natural-looking results.

Fillers: Restore Volume and Structural Support

Dermal fillers are injectable gels designed to restore lost volume in the face. Common areas treated include the temples, cheeks, submalar zones, under-eye hollows, and forehead. Volume loss in these areas is one of the first visible signs of ageing.

The purpose of fillers is twofold. First, they replenish volume lost due to fat atrophy and bone resorption. Second, they provide structural support, which not only restores youthful contours but also enhances the lifting effects of other treatments like thread lifts. This is especially true when fillers are used strategically in the midface and temple regions.

Target area:

• Deep and superficial fat pads.

Key benefits:

• Immediate restoration of youthful volume.
  
• Enhanced facial contours and support for lifted areas.
  
• Fuller facial appearance, which is often culturally associated with youthfulness and prosperity.

Skin Boosters: Revitalise and Hydrate the Skin

Skin boosters are injectable treatments designed to improve skin quality rather than change the face’s structure or volume. These solutions are delivered into the dermis and are rich in ingredients that hydrate, nourish, and promote skin repair.

Common skin booster ingredients include:

• Polynucleotides (PN, PDRN): Stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin repair, especially in acne-prone skin.
  
• Non-crosslinked HA: Provides hydration and restores the skin’s extracellular matrix (ECM).
  
• Mildly crosslinked HA: Offers sustained hydration.
  
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) + Glycerol: Offering deep hydration and prolonged skin rejuvenation.

Target area:

• Superficial dermis (skin).

Key benefits:

• Skin hydration.
  
• Reduction in fine lines and pores.
  
• Bright and youthful skin texture.

Can They Be Combined? Absolutely — And Here’s Why

Many people mistakenly believe that combining multiple facial treatments might be risky or lead to overcorrection. In reality, when performed by trained, experienced practitioners, combining treatments is not only safe — it often yields effective results.

Here’s why:

Each treatment works on different anatomical planes and has distinct purposes:

• Thread lifts reposition and lift the deeper facial tissues and fat pads.
  
• Fillers restore volume and provide structural support in both the deep and superficial fat compartments.
  
• Skin boosters enhance the skin’s surface hydration, elasticity, and texture.

Because these treatments do not overlap in the layers they target, they do not compete or interfere with each other. Instead, they create a synergistic effect.

Example of Synergy:

• Threads lift and reposition sagging tissue, reducing heaviness in the lower face.
  
• Fillers volumise the cheeks and temples, restoring youthful contour and supporting the lift created by the threads.
  
• Skin boosters improve the skin’s surface quality, ensuring the rejuvenated face looks not only lifted and volumised but also glowing and healthy.

By treating ageing at every layer, from the deep structural support to the skin surface, practitioners can deliver comprehensive, natural-looking rejuvenation that no single treatment could achieve on its own.

Treating Ageing Layer by Layer: Why It Matters

Ageing does not happen in just one layer of the face. As we age:

• Bone resorption reduces the facial framework.
  
• Fat pads shrink and descend, leading to hollowness and sagging.
  
• Skin elasticity declines, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, and a dull complexion.

Addressing only one layer leaves other signs of ageing untreated, leading to imbalanced or incomplete results. For example, lifting sagging skin without restoring lost volume can make the face appear tight but hollow. Volumising without lifting can result in a heavier, less natural look.

A multi-layered approach, combining threads, fillers, and skin boosters, addresses each aspect of ageing:

• Threads lift.
  
• Fillers volumise.
  
• Skin boosters rejuvenate.

This strategy creates not just a younger appearance but a harmonious, natural beauty that enhances the patient’s features rather than masking them.

Is It Safe to Combine These Treatments?

When performed by a skilled, medically trained practitioner with an understanding of facial anatomy and tissue dynamics, combining these treatments is safe. In fact, the combination often reduces the need for extreme intervention in any single treatment category, minimising risks further.

At Ozhean Zoey, Dr. Park and her team follow a comprehensive safety protocol:

• Thorough facial assessment to tailor the treatment plan to the individual’s needs.
  
• Accurate placement techniques for each treatment layer.
  
• Layer-specific sequencing to ensure treatments work together seamlessly.
  
• Use of scientifically validated products.
  
• When appropriate, treatments can be spaced over multiple sessions to allow for sufficient healing and adjustment.

This approach helps not only with safety but also with results.

Final Thoughts on Layered Rejuvenation

The face ages in multiple layers, and treating ageing layer by layer offers effective and natural-looking outcomes. Combining thread lifts, fillers, and skin boosters allows practitioners to address sagging, volume loss, and skin quality in a holistic, synergistic manner.

Patients no longer have to choose between lifting, volumising, or skin rejuvenation. With the right combination of treatments recommended by experienced and qualified aesthetic doctors, they can enjoy the benefits of all three, achieving a look that is refreshed, youthful, and entirely their own.

Book Your Personalised Consultation Today

Curious if a layered treatment plan is right for you?

Schedule your consultation with us today to explore how combining thread lifts, fillers, and skin boosters can help you achieve the natural, beautiful version of yourself, without surgery and with minimal downtime.

Despite common sayings about "ageing gracefully", the truth is that the ageing process can be far from kind. As we grow older, our skin loses its youthful plumpness, elasticity, and structure. The decline of collagen production — starting as early as our 20s — means that the skin becomes thinner and looser over time. But it’s not just the skin that changes.

Deeper structures of the face also lose support. Fat pads shrink and descend, the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) weakens, and the retaining ligaments that once held the facial tissues in place become lax. As a result, folds and lines begin to appear, especially around the nasolabial area (NLF), marionette lines, and jawline. These changes are often the most obvious visual markers of ageing.

For decades, the common solution for reversing these changes was the surgical facelift. By surgically lifting and tightening both the skin and the underlying SMAS layer, a facelift could restore youthful contours. However, this approach comes with consideration of factors like:

• Surgical incisions and scarring
• Lengthy recovery time
• Post-operative pain
• Potential for anaesthesia-related risks
• And, critically, results that heavily depend on the surgeon’s skill.

Understandably, not everyone is ready—or willing—to undergo such an invasive procedure.

Fortunately, advancements in non-surgical face lifting have created minimally invasive alternatives: Thread Lifts, HIFU, and Ultherapy. But how do these compare to each other and to the traditional facelift?

The Rise of Non-Surgical Face Lifting

What if you could achieve a lifted, youthful appearance without surgery?

That question has driven the development of non-invasive and minimally invasive skin lifting technologies over the last two decades. The demand for effective solutions with minimal downtime has led to treatments that tighten skin, stimulate collagen, and, in some cases, physically reposition sagging tissues.

Today, three of the most popular non-surgical face-lifting methods are:

1. Thread Lifts
2. HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
3. Ultherapy (Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualisation)

Which is right for you? Let’s break down how they work, what to expect, and how they compare.

Thread Lift: The Mechanical and Biological Approach

A thread lift involves the insertion of fine, medical-grade sutures beneath the skin using a tiny needle or cannula. These threads, made from absorbable materials like PDO, PLLA, or PCL, are designed with either barbs or cones. Once inserted, the threads hook onto the underlying tissue, allowing the practitioner to gently pull the skin upward, repositioning sagging areas like the jawline, cheeks, brows, and neck.

But the benefits go beyond visible lifting. As the threads settle into place, they stimulate the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production in the surrounding tissues. This collagen stimulation provides long-term improvement in skin firmness and elasticity, even after the threads have dissolved.

Key Benefits of Thread Lifts:

• Lifting effect
• Long-term collagen stimulation
• Customisable to different facial areas
• Minimal downtimex
• Results lasting 6 months to 2 years

Thread lifts are particularly effective for patients seeking visible, physical lifting without undergoing surgery. Other threads, such as moulded barbs or ultrasound-moulded threads, offer better tension.

However, thread lifts are not ideal for everyone. Individuals with severe skin laxity or very thin skin may not achieve the desired results and could be better candidates for surgical intervention or combined therapies.

HIFU: The Power of Ultrasound Energy

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive skin lifting technology that uses focused ultrasound energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin and SMAS. By delivering thermal injury points, HIFU triggers the body’s natural wound healing response, leading to collagen remodelling and skin tightening over time.

HIFU stimulates internal tightening by:

• Contracting collagen fibres
• Promoting neocollagenesis (new collagen production)
• Increasing skin elasticity

Key Benefits of HIFU:

• Non-invasive — no needles or cuts
• Safe for most skin types
• Gradual, natural-looking results
• Minimal downtime
• Results lasting 6 to 12 months

HIFU is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity who prefer a needle-free option. However, the lifting effect is subtle compared to thread lifts or surgery. It’s suitable for early signs of ageing or for maintaining results after other lifting treatments.

Ultherapy: Accurate Lifting with Visualisation

Ultherapy combines micro-focused ultrasound with real-time ultrasound imaging (visualisation). This allows practitioners to see exactly where the energy is being delivered — ensuring accurate targeting of the SMAS layer and optimising treatment outcomes.

Like HIFU, Ultherapy works by heating the deeper skin layers, stimulating collagen production and causing tissue contraction. Ultherapy is able to:

• Customise treatment depth (superficial dermis to deep SMAS)
• Avoid critical structures using ultrasound imaging
• Achieve consistent results

Key Benefits of Ultherapy:

• Non-invasive with minimal downtime
• FDA-cleared for lifting the brow, chin, and neck
• Real-time visualisation for enhanced safety and efficacy
• Gradual, natural-looking improvements
• Results lasting up to 12 to 18 months

Ultherapy is ideal for patients with early to moderate signs of skin laxity who desire a natural lift without needles or surgery.

Comparing Thread Lift, HIFU, and Ultherapy

Key Takeaways:

• Thread lifts deliver the visible lift.
• HIFU provides subtle tightening without needles — ideal for early ageing.
• Ultherapy offers a customisable tightening effect with deep collagen stimulation.
  

Can They Be Combined?

Absolutely. In fact, many patients achieve their aesthetic goals by combining these treatments.

• Thread lifts provide a quick lift and structural support.
• Ultherapy or HIFU can be used before or after threads to enhance collagen production and maintain results.
• Injectable collagen stimulators (e.g., CaHA Filler, PDLLA Filler) or HA fillers can restore volume where needed, complementing the lifting effect.
  

This multi-layered approach addresses skin laxity, volume loss, and structural support, creating a comprehensive and lasting facial rejuvenation.

Are There Cases Where Non-Surgical Lifting Is Not Enough?

Yes. While non-surgical face-lifting methods show results for many patients, they do have limitations.

Patients who may not be ideal candidates include:

• Individuals aged 70 and above with severe skin laxity and visible ageing effects.
• Patients with significant volume loss, where threads or energy devices cannot provide sufficient lifting or volume restoration.
• Those needing extensive tissue repositioning, where a surgical facelift remains the effective solution.

Thread lifts, HIFU, and Ultherapy can’t do it all. They are ideal for patients with mild to moderate skin sagging or those seeking to maintain or enhance the results of previous lifting treatments.

Final Thoughts: Which Skin Lifting Treatment Is Suitable for You?

The answer depends on your age, degree of skin laxity, treatment goals, and tolerance for downtime.

• If you want visible lifting, especially for moderate sagging: Thread Lift.
• If you prefer no needles and gradual tightening for mild laxity: HIFU.
• If you desire accurate lifting with deeper collagen stimulation and minimal downtime: Ultherapy.

Ultimately, a suitable approach for your skin may involve a personalised combination of treatments to address both lifting and volume loss, tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Book a Consultation with Ozhean Zoey Today

Not sure which treatment is right for you? Contact Ozhean Zoey today to schedule your personalised consultation and discover how to lift, tighten, and rejuvenate your face — without surgery.

In recent years, the thread lift has emerged as a sought-after aesthetic treatment, bridging the gap between non-surgical procedures and the surgical facelift. The results include: skin firmness, lifting and definition, without the long scars, extensive downtime, or the risks linked to surgery and general anaesthesia.

At Ozhean Zoey, thread lift procedures are performed under local anaesthesia for patient comfort. This minimally invasive approach means most individuals tolerate the procedure well, returning quickly to their daily activities.

Yet, while thread lifts show results, the most common question remains: how long do these results last?

Longevity: A Common Concern Among Thread Lift Patients

Some individuals who have undergone thread lifts report a loss of results within just three to six months. At Ozhean Zoey, we bring years of experience using multiple thread brands, including Happy Lift, Silhouette Lift, Serdev Threads, and Korean-developed threads like Art Lift and MINT Lift. Over the years, we have refined our approach and developed our proprietary OLLYA threads, which have consistently demonstrated effective results lasting between 6 and 12 months. In many cases, they may last up to 24 months or more.

But what determines how long a thread lift lasts? Let’s explore the key factors.

1️⃣ Thread Concept: Anchoring Threads and Floating Threads

Anchoring threads provide a sustained lift. They are secured into deep tissues (sometimes even periosteal or bone fixation in older designs), ensuring that facial movements do not easily displace them.

In contrast, floating threads tend to lose tension over time due to facial expressions and natural tissue movements. While they may offer some plumping effects, such as fuller cheeks, their lifting power diminishes relatively quickly.

2️⃣ Thread Design: Needle Threads and Cannula Threads

Needle threads, including our OLLYA Lift, permit the use of long threads that engage a sizeable area of sagging tissue. This provides a strong and enduring lift.

Cannula threads, which include designs like single thread, spring, tornado, and cockscrew (previously common for volumisation), offer less trauma upon insertion but can be more uncomfortable during the procedure. At Ozhean Zoey, we strategically use single cannula threads to enhance structural support for OLLYA threads rather than relying solely on them for lifting.

With the rise of injectable collagen biostimulators such as CaHA Filler, PCL Filler, and PDLLA Filler, the need for collagen-stimulating solid threads like tornado or spring designs has decreased. Today, these injectables often replace the volumising role of older thread types.

3️⃣ Thread Hooks: Cones and Barbs; Cut Cogs and Moulded Cogs

In the aesthetic field today, doctors use ultrasound-moulded threads, like the Double-Fix system. These threads avoid heat moulding, preserving both thread strength and barb integrity. They can support tissue loads of up to 4.5 kg—offering a strong and durable lift without adding unnecessary bulk.

4️⃣ Material Matters: PDO, PLLA and PCL

PDO threads are common for their collagen stimulation but have a relatively short lifting lifespan. PLLA threads tend to last but are prone to breakage under tension. PCL threads, especially those used in Ozhean Zoey’s OLLYA system, combine longevity with effective collagen induction, providing the longest-lasting lifts available today.

5️⃣ Ozhean Zoey’s OLLYA Threads

At Ozhean Zoey, we recognised the limitations of existing threads and created the OLLYA Thread System.

Features of OLLYA Threads:

Patients enjoy not only visible improvement but also ongoing rejuvenation as collagen continues to build over time.

🔎 What’s Next for Thread Lifting?

TESSLIFT: Combined Lifting and Volumisation

This design merges a 3D mesh scaffold with barbed (cogged) threads. The mesh encourages tissue ingrowth and collagen production, offering not just lifting but also volumisation, addressing two patient concerns in one treatment.

By combining structure and support, the TESSLIFT offers near- and long-term benefits.

Heat-Responsive Threads

These threads are designed to contract when exposed to heat, such as from High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatments.

The goal is to create a thread that:

• Tightens during HIFU sessions, enhancing lift without requiring repeat thread placements.
  
• Extends the lifespan of thread lifts, reducing the frequency of treatments.
  

Though still in the experimental phase, this thread could change the way we maintain lifting results over time.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Threads for Lasting Beauty

So, how long does a thread lift last? The answer depends on multiple factors: the type of thread, its design, the anchoring method, and the material used. At Ozhean Zoey, thanks to Dr. Park’s input and our OLLYA system, we are committed to delivering thread lift results that last, typically 12 to 24 months or even longer for some patients.

With the TESSLIFT and other technologies such as heat-responsive threads, patients can expect longer-lasting and less invasive rejuvenation options in the years to come.

If you are considering a thread lift and want sustained beauty, a consultation with a skilled and experienced provider is essential. Our team at Ozhean Zoey is ready to help.

Ready to Experience the Power of OLLYA Threads?

Contact Ozhean Zoey today to schedule your personalised consultation and discover how a thread lift can redefine your beauty and restore youthful confidence, without surgery.