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The True Lyft technique for facial rejuvenation using dermal fillers

Dermal fillers have long been used to alter the face, and as both product composition and techniques have been refined over the past two decades, injectors have strived to find the right balance between product choice, placement and quantity.

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The right treatment lies in using the least amount of product, with best practice safety measures, to achieve the maximum possible result for patients.

This is why The Sharp Clinics nurses were pleased to recently undergo training in Plastic Surgeon Dr Peter Huang’s ‘True Lyft’ technique.

This technique involves the placement of single, small droplets (called ‘bolus’ injections) at very specific, strategic positions on the patient’s facial bones, to scaffold and support key retaining ligaments.

Here, Nurse Deborah (pictured left) shares her experience with this new technique.

 

How are facial ligaments involved in the ageing face?

The face has four key facial retaining ligaments that impact how we look as we age; these are fibrous tissues connecting skin to bone.

Over the years, our facial retaining ligaments become increasingly lax (imagine a rubber band losing its tightness over time).

Along with the dropping of the overlying tissues and the regression of our facial bone structure, these factors are key contributors to the sagging, depleted appearance we start to see in our 40s, 50s and 60s.

facial ligaments

What is the True Lyft technique?

The True Lyft technique involves injections placed deep on the facial bones to support the retaining ligaments and provide a subtle lift. It does not replace soft tissue restoration techniques nor achieve results anything like facelift surgery.

Who is it suitable for?

Considered a foundation treatment for patients seeking subtle results for a refreshed appearance, the treatment is suitable for patients in their 30’s and 40’s with mild to moderate facial aging and skin laxity, although can be employed for more advanced facial ageing as a foundation treatment in combination with other dermal filler injections or biostimulator treatments. It is important to see an injector who had a strong understanding of facial anatomy and undergoes frequent professional development and further education

What types of results does it achieve?

What the True Lyft technique will do: the aim of the True Lyft approach is to achieve a visible change, without looking overtly filled. I also combine it with other techniques as a foundation for dermal filler treatment planning, providing the structure needed before working more superficially.

What the True Lyft technique won’t do: it is not a ‘wow’ transformation, and when this was first described to me, I was a little underwhelmed. But after using the technique I could immediately see the impact of those additional small boluses of support in key areas of the face that start to look depleted. It is perfect for patients who want to get the most out of a low-volume treatment.

Is it painful?

When I explain to patients that the filler will be placed on their bone, they immediately (and understandably) assume it is going to be painful, which usually isn’t the case. Interestingly, most patients find this treatment more comfortable than other filler treatment as it involves a small needle and single very precise injections rather than long threads or movement of the needle back and forth. The main feedback I receive is a that there is a momentary feeling of ‘pressure’ in the spot when the filler is injected, which lasts for 3-4 seconds. For these reasons it is very well tolerated and most patients do not require any numbing cream prior.

What is the recovery like?

Most patients go back to work on the day of treatment, as there are only a small number of injection sites. The day after, patients experience an ache around these injection sites, which they treat for 24 hours with their usual over the counter pain relief. Swelling is minimal. Small bruises directly over the injections can sometimes be seen; however these are usually minor and cover up well under concealer. The filler feels like a small hard ball for the first few weeks. It is important not to massage or move the filler as it is strategically placed – and we need to keep it exactly where it is placed! A check up with your injector is usually booked a few weeks after treatment to ensure it is settling well. Like all filler, there are considerations to make both before and after undergoing treatment to ensure the procedure is carried out safely.

How much does it cost?

A True Lift treatment costs approximately $1,200.

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Image credit, top right: Retaining ligaments of the face: review of anatomy and clinical applications. Mohammed S. Alghoul, M. Codner (published 1 August 2013) Aesthetic Surgery Journal

 

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