Just as it sounds, a non-invasive face lift firms and lifts your skin without surgery or stitches. It uses energy-based treatments like ultrasound, radiofrequency or laser to spark new collagen under your skin.
This means that you get to avoid the cuts, scars and long recovery time of a surgical lift. Understandably though you might wonder: does non-invasive face lift hurt?
It is because of that frequently asked question that we created this guide on non-invasive face lift treatment in Singapore. Keep reading to know exactly what you should expect.
What are the Non-invasive Treatments for Face Lift?
Non-invasive face lift treatments target deep layers of skin without any cuts or anaesthesia. They basically aim for a sharper jawline, lifted brows or smoother cheeks without the risks of a knife. If you’ve set your eyes on non-invasive face lift in Singapore, here are some of the most notable treatments your skin or cosmetic doctor may recommend:
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): This treatment uses focused sound waves to reach deep dermal layers. It heats tissue precisely at the fibrous septa, where collagen-rich bands lie. You feel brief pulses of heat and pressure as it works. Over three to six months, your skin firms and lifts naturally.
Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy: Preferred for mild-to-moderate skin laxity, RF therapy works by warming the skin using electrical currents. The heat tightens existing collagen and encourages new growth. Unlike HIFU, RF treats broader areas more evenly. Many people report a gentle warming sensation, similar to a hot stone massage.
Laser Skin Tightening: This non-invasive face lift treatment works by sending light energy into the dermis to shrink collagen bundles and stimulate repair. It also improves skin texture and reduces fine lines. You may feel a mild prickling or warmth during the session. Results emerge gradually as skin renews itself.
Thread Lifts (PDO Threads): This method involves tiny, dissolvable sutures placed under your skin. These threads physically lift sagging tissues and spur collagen response along their length. You feel mild tugging or pressure during placement. Over the next three to four months, your skin gains firmness where the threads once lay.
Does a Non-invasive Face Lift Hurt?
Pain is a main concern when it comes to cosmetic treatments. So, it is understandable if the question you have before your non-invasive face lift treatment is: do they hurt? Here’s what you need to know:
Pain varies depending on treatment type and individual sensitivity. During HIFU face lift for example, many patients describe a snapping or pricking feeling with each ultrasound shot.
Some compare it to tiny rubber-band snaps. Topical anaesthetic cream or mild painkillers are often used to make it more comfortable.
Radiofrequency tends to feel like steady warmth under your skin, with occasional mild pinches as the device moves. Most people tolerate it well without anaesthesia.
With laser skin tightening, you feel a warm, tingling prick as the laser pulses. The good thing is that settings can be adjusted to your comfort level, and cooling devices also help soothe the surface.
Skilled clinicians often start at lower energy to gauge your pain tolerance and then work with that. Thread lifts involve local anaesthetic at entry points, so you feel minimal discomfort.
During suture placement, you may notice gentle pressure and tugging, but no sharp pain. It is worth noting that pain tolerance differs widely with some people barely noticing these sensations.
Others prefer extra numbing though. A good clinic will be keen to tailor energy levels and apply cooling packs or sprays to help you. That said, please talk to your provider about your comfort level to ensure the treatment stays within your pain threshold.
How Long Does Discomfort After Non-invasive Face Lift Last?
After most non-invasive face lifts, any discomfort fades quickly. With HIFU and RF, you often leave the clinic with slight warmth and minimal swelling.
Most people feel completely normal within a few hours. A mild tingling or tightness may linger for up to 24 hours as collagen begins to contract.
Laser treatments can cause brief redness and warmth that subsides within a day. You might feel slight itchiness as your skin repairs itself, but this rarely lasts beyond 24 hours.
Thread lifts carry more downtime. You can basically expect mild soreness, bruising or tenderness around entry points for two to four days.
You will be advised to apply ice and take simple painkillers to keep you comfortable. In case you’re worried about severe pain, it is quite rare with non-invasive lifts.
If you experience persistent throbbing, increasing redness or any signs of infection after the expected window, please contact your clinic promptly. Importantly, follow their aftercare advice, to keep discomfort low and let your skin heal smoothly.
Speaking of letting your skin heal smoothly, most of the treatments will require you to avoid intense exercise and heat. This would mean skipping gym workouts, saunas and hot showers for 48 hours after treatment.
This is important because heat and sweat can worsen swelling and irritate healing skin. Instead, opt for gentle walks or light stretching.
Once the redness and tightness subside, you can return to your regular fitness routine. Importantly, your skin may feel tight or tender after the treatment.
Please, avoid touching or massaging it as doing so can disrupt collagen formation or cause thread migration in PDO lifts. Allow your skin to rest and heal according to your provider’s instructions.
Gentle taps or light pats are fine, but no rubbing or pulling. In terms of discomfort, please contact your clinic if you notice severe pain, increasing redness, pus or fever, which may signal infection.
For thread lifts, report any lumps, skin dimpling or persistent tenderness around suture sites. Early medical advice prevents complications and keeps your treatment on track.
Wrapping Up
A non-invasive face lift can give you a refreshed, lifted look without the pain and downtime of surgery. While you might feel brief stinging, warmth or mild soreness, these sensations fade within hours to days. Work closely with your clinician to ensure a comfortable experience and the best possible results.
If you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin without surgery, please book a consultation at our Singapore clinic today. Our experienced team will help tailor non-invasive face lifts to your needs to ensure minimal discomfort and lasting, natural results. Call or visit us at:
APAX Medical & Aesthetics Clinic (Bukit Panjang J10) – Acne & Acne Scars Clinic Singapore
1 Woodlands Rd, #02-11 Junction 10, Singapore 677899
🌐 https://apaxmedical.com/
📞 +65 6769 6007
