1. Purpose

To provide structured, evidence‑based post‑care and patient education guidelines following PDO and lifting thread procedures. This ensures optimal recovery, safety, and regulatory compliance with AHPRA, TGA, RACGP, NSW Health, and ACSQHC frameworks.

2. Scope

Applies to all practitioners performing thread lift procedures at Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor. Covers communication of aftercare advice, patient follow‑up, and escalation of any post‑treatment complications.^{1 2 3 4 5}

3. Immediate Aftercare Instructions

• Apply a cold compress intermittently for 10 minutes every hour on the day of treatment to minimise swelling.¹
• Avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging the treated area for 24 hours to preserve thread placement.²
• Keep the head elevated for the first 24 hours; avoid lying face‑down.³
• Paracetamol may be used for discomfort. Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs for 48 hours to reduce bruising and inflammation.⁴⁵

4. Activity Restrictions & Lifestyle Advice

• Avoid strenuous physical activity, saunas, or heat exposure for seven days.¹
• Do not schedule dental procedures or facial massages for two weeks.²
• Limit exaggerated facial movements such as wide yawning or chewing tough foods for three days.³
• Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 48 hours to support wound healing and collagen stimulation.^{4 5}

5. Follow‑Up Protocol

• Schedule the first review at two weeks post‑procedure to assess healing and symmetry.¹
• Conduct a secondary review at three months to evaluate outcomes and take follow‑up photos.²
• Encourage the patient to provide feedback regarding comfort and satisfaction.³
• Record findings and plan for maintenance or repeat treatment as clinically indicated.^{4 5}

6. Red Flags & Escalation Pathway

• Patients must contact the clinic immediately if severe pain, rapid swelling, or blanching occurs.¹
• Infection warning signs include redness, warmth, discharge, or fever — these require review within 24 hours.²
• Dimpling or migration persisting beyond two weeks should prompt reassessment.³
• Signs of vascular compromise must trigger immediate emergency management and event documentation.^{4 5}

7. Documentation & Record Keeping

• Provide both written and verbal post‑care instructions; obtain signed acknowledgment from the patient.¹
• Document all education provided, follow‑up interactions, and any reported adverse events.^{2 3}
• Maintain secure storage of clinical records for a minimum of seven years in line with AHPRA and NSW Health legislation.^{4 5}

Sources

1. AHPRA — Codes and Guidelines for Cosmetic Medical Procedures (2023), viewed 06 November 2025, https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Resources/Cosmetic-surgery-hub/Cosmetic-procedure-guidelines.aspx ↩
2. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) — Medical Devices Regulation (2024), viewed 06 November 2025, https://www.tga.gov.au/ ↩
3. RACGP (2024) Infection prevention & control guidelines (primary care)., viewed 05 November 2025, https://www.racgp.org.au/running-a-practice/practice-standards/racgp-infection-prevention-and-control-guidelines↩
4. NSW Health (2020), Infection Prevention and Control Practice Handbook – Version 3, viewed 06 November 2025, https://www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/keep-patients-safe/infection-prevention-and-control/resources/handbook ↩
5. ACSQHC — National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (2023), viewed 06 November 2025, https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/nsqhs-standards ↩