HiKo Nose Thread Lift Aftercare
Your complete recovery guide from the Luxe Lips clinical team
Educational Resource — This page provides general aftercare guidance for patients who have received hiko nose thread lift treatment. It does not constitute medical advice. If you have any concerns about your recovery, contact the Luxe Lips clinic directly.
The HiKo nose thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses PDO (polydioxanone) threads inserted into the nose to lift, straighten, or refine the nasal profile. The procedure is sometimes discussed by patients seeking changes to nasal contour without undergoing surgical rhinoplasty.
This guide covers essential aftercare including whether you can wear glasses after a nose thread lift and how to manage nose blowing during recovery. Because threads are placed within nasal tissue, aftercare instructions for this procedure are more specific than for many injectable treatments. Following the recommended restrictions helps support proper recovery.
Every HiKo nose thread lift is tailored to the individual. The number of threads, placement strategy, and target areas are determined by your unique nasal anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Before your hiko nose thread lift appointment
AVOID BLOOD-THINNING MEDICATIONS FOR ONE WEEK
Aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and other blood-thinning agents should be avoided at least seven days before treatment to minimise bruising and bleeding risk. Do not stop prescribed medication without consulting your doctor.
AVOID ALCOHOL FOR 48 HOURS BEFORE
Alcohol thins the blood and may increase the likelihood of bruising. Abstain for at least 48 hours before your nose thread appointment.
INFORM YOUR PRACTITIONER OF ALL MEDICATIONS
In addition to fish oil and vitamin E, supplements such as garlic, ginseng, green tea extract, and St John’s wort can increase bruising. Stop these at least five days before treatment.
INFORM YOUR PRACTITIONER OF ANY NASAL CONDITIONS
If you have a cold, sinus infection, recent nosebleed, or any nasal condition, inform your medical professional before proceeding. The procedure may need to be rescheduled.
What to expect immediately after treatment
The HiKo nose thread lift involves the insertion of fine PDO threads into the nose using thin needles or cannulas. Local anaesthetic is administered to the nose before the procedure, which helps reduce discomfort during thread placement.
The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes. You will be awake throughout and may feel pressure, tugging, or a mild crunching sensation as the threads are placed. This is normal and not a cause for concern.
Immediately after treatment, the nose may appear more elevated or structured, although swelling is also common and the nose may look slightly larger than expected initially. The appearance typically evolves as swelling settles over the following one to two weeks. The nose may feel firm, stiff, and slightly unusual.
There may be a sensation of something being inside the nose — because there is. This sensation usually settles over the following weeks as the tissues adapt.
Small entry-point marks from the needle insertions may be visible and may develop tiny crusts. These typically resolve within a few days and are usually subtle.
HiKo nose thread lift aftercare guidance
What to do and what to avoid during recovery
Keep your head elevated
Sleep propped up on an extra pillow for the first 3–5 nights. Elevation can help minimise swelling during the early recovery period. Avoid sleeping on your side or face-down.
Take prescribed pain relief if needed
Paracetamol is recommended for any discomfort. Your practitioner may prescribe or recommend specific pain relief — follow their instructions. Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin for at least 48 hours post-procedure.
Apply cold compresses beside the nose (not on it)
To manage swelling, place a clean, cloth-wrapped cold compress on the cheeks beside the nose — never directly on the nose itself. Direct pressure or cold on the nose may interfere with the early positioning of the threads.
Be gentle when washing your face
You can wash your face from the day after treatment, but use a gentle cleanser and avoid pressing on or rubbing the nose. Splash water over the nose area rather than scrubbing it.
Keep entry points clean
The small needle entry points should be kept clean and dry. If your practitioner provides an antiseptic solution or ointment, apply it as directed to reduce infection risk.
Avoid pressing, squeezing, pushing, or manipulating the nose in any way. The threads are stabilising in the treated area, and significant external pressure may interfere with their positioning or recovery. Resist the urge to feel the threads or assess the shape by touching.
Standard glasses and sunglasses rest on the nose bridge, applying sustained pressure directly over the area where threads have been placed. This pressure may interfere with the early positioning of the threads. Use contact lenses during this period. If you must wear glasses, your practitioner can advise on alternatives.
Forceful nose-blowing creates internal pressure that may interfere with the positioning of the threads. If you need to clear your nose, do so very gently, pressing one nostril at a time with minimal force. Saline spray can help keep nasal passages clear without blowing.
Sleeping with your face pressed into a pillow applies prolonged pressure to the nose. Sleep on your back with your head elevated for at least two weeks.
Any treatment that involves manipulation of the face — facials, facial massage, gua sha, microcurrent devices — must be avoided for at least four weeks. The nose area should not be manipulated, and broader facial treatments may place indirect pressure on the treated area.
Small crusts may form at the needle insertion points. Allow these to fall off naturally. Picking or pulling at crusts can reopen the wound, introduce bacteria, and cause scarring.
Vigorous exercise may raise blood pressure and increase the risk of swelling and bruising. Avoid running, weights, high-intensity training, and contact sports for at least seven days. Light walking is usually acceptable from day two.
Skincare and nutrition after Hiko nose threads
Skincare
For the first two days, avoid applying any skincare products — including cleanser, serum, and SPF — directly to the nose. You can continue your normal routine on the rest of your face. The entry points should remain clean and free from skincare products while the skin is recovering.
Use your normal gentle cleanser on the forehead, cheeks, and chin. When rinsing, splash water carefully and avoid rubbing the nose area.
Continue wearing SPF 50+ on all other facial areas. Once the entry points have settled — often within a few days — SPF can be applied gently to the nose, avoiding firm rubbing.
Keep active ingredients away from the nose for a full two weeks. These products may irritate the entry points and the skin overlying the treated area during the early recovery period.
Food & Drink
Alcohol thins the blood and may worsen swelling and bruising. Avoid it for at least 48 hours after your nose thread procedure.
Adequate water intake supports general recovery. Drink plenty of water throughout your recovery.
Very hot beverages and spicy foods may cause facial flushing and increased blood flow to the nose, which may temporarily worsen swelling. This is a minor precaution but can improve comfort in the first few days.
What the threads feel like inside the nose
One of the most common concerns patients have after a HiKo nose thread lift is the unusual sensation inside the nose. It is important to understand that this can occur and is usually temporary.
The nose may feel:
- Firm or stiff — as though the nose has additional internal support. This sensation relates to the presence of the threads within the nasal tissue.
- Slightly tight — a sensation of tension within the treated area.
- Unusual or foreign — an awareness that something is present inside the nose. This is not painful, just unfamiliar.
These sensations are often most noticeable in the first 1–2 weeks and usually diminish over time as the tissues adapt. By around week 4–6, many patients report that they are no longer aware of the threads.
The threads gradually dissolve over 6–9 months. During this time, changes within the surrounding tissue may occur as part of the body’s natural response to the threads. The appearance of the nose may continue to evolve even after the threads have dissolved.
The glasses restriction
The restriction on wearing glasses is the aftercare instruction that patients find most challenging, particularly those who rely on prescription glasses daily. However, it is clinically important and cannot be ignored.
Standard glasses frames rest on the nose bridge — the exact area where threads have been inserted. The sustained downward pressure from the weight of the frames can:
- * Interfere with the positioning of the threads during early recovery
- * Create indentation or compression of the tissue overlying the threads
- * Cause discomfort or irritation at the thread sites
Alternatives during the restriction period:
- Contact lenses — the simplest solution for prescription wearers
- Stick-on nose pads — adhesive pads that attach to glasses frames and redistribute weight away from the bridge
- Forehead-resting glasses supports — wearable accessories that suspend glasses above the bridge
- Tape support — medical tape used to suspend lightweight frames from the forehead
Discuss your glasses needs with your practitioner before the procedure so you can plan ahead. The restriction often lasts around 2–4 weeks, depending on individual recovery and medical professional guidance.
Your treatment plan
At Luxe Lips Cosmetic Clinic Melbourne, the consultation is the most important part of the entire journey. Your practitioner listens first, conducts a full facial assessment — not just the nose in isolation — and designs a staged, multi-session plan tailored to your individual anatomy, proportions, and goals. There is no standardised package thinking; every plan is built around you.
The HiKo nose thread lift sits within the Structure phase of our treatment philosophy, which follows a clear sequence: Skin Quality → Structure → Refinement. Nose threads are placed within the nasal tissue to provide internal support that may influence nasal contour. This approach differs from treatments that primarily affect the skin surface or facial muscles.
Nose threads may sometimes be discussed alongside dermal filler when considering both structural support and volume-related concerns. Threads and filler influence nasal contour in different ways, and your practitioner may discuss whether one approach or a combination is appropriate. Your medical professional will recommend the most appropriate option or combination, based on your nasal anatomy and what is achievable with non-surgical nose enhancement procedures.
Nose threads may form one component of a broader facial treatment plan. The nose does not exist in isolation. Its appearance is influenced by the surrounding structures. Chin and jawline treatments, cheek enhancement, and skin laser treatments all affect how the nose is perceived within the face.
This is why Luxe Lips takes a full-face assessment approach rather than treating individual features without considering the whole. Some research has explored comprehensive facial treatment approaches.
The HARMONY Study (Weinkle et al., 2017) explored patient satisfaction in multimodal aesthetic treatment plans. Hoffman and Fabi (2022) also discussed outcomes associated with comprehensive aesthetic treatment planning.
When you’re ready, you can schedule a session to discuss your next steps at our Moonee Ponds, Camberwell, or Brighton cosmetic clinic.
Healing timeline
Days 1–3
Swelling is at its peak. The nose feels firm, stiff, and slightly larger than expected due to swelling. Tenderness at the insertion sites and a mild, dull ache in the nose are common. Minor bruising may appear on or around the nose. Small entry-point crusts may form.
Days 3–7
Swelling is noticeably subsiding. Bruising (if present) is evolving in colour and beginning to resolve. The nose may begin to look closer to the expected post-treatment contour. Stiffness is reducing but still present. Entry-point marks are healing.
Week 2
The treated area is continuing to settle during this period. The nose feels less stiff and more natural. The appearance of the nose may become clearer as swelling continues to settle. You may be cleared to resume wearing lightweight glasses depending on your healing progress.
Weeks 4–6
The appearance of the nose is usually more settled by this stage. Swelling has typically reduced significantly, the treated area has generally stabilised, and the nasal contour may reflect the changes created during treatment. Tissue changes may continue to occur around the threads as part of the body’s response, which may influence the appearance of the nose even after the threads have dissolved.
Months 6–18
The PDO threads gradually dissolve over 6–9 months. Changes within the surrounding tissue may continue after the threads dissolve. The appearance of the nose may persist for an extended period, although duration varies between individuals. Some patients discuss repeat treatment with their practitioner after about 12 months depending on their goals.
What is normal vs what warrants a call
Normal
- ✓Swelling of the nose for 1–2 weeks (most significant in the first 3–5 days)
- ✓Firmness or stiffness in the nose
- ✓A sensation of something being inside the nose
- ✓Mild to moderate tenderness and a dull ache
- ✓Minor bruising on or around the nose
- ✓Small crusts at the needle entry points
- ✓Mild asymmetry during the swelling phase
- These are common responses following a procedure where threads are placed within the nasal tissue. They typically improve gradually over the first couple of weeks.
Contact the clinic promptly if you experience
- !Increasing swelling or pain after the first 3 days
- !Redness, warmth, or pus at entry points suggesting infection
- !A thread that becomes visible through the skin or begins to protrude
- !Significant asymmetry that persists beyond the swelling phase (after 2 weeks)
- !Persistent numbness or altered sensation in the nose tip beyond 2 weeks
Seek Urgent Care If You Experience
- ⚠Signs of infection: spreading redness, significant pus, fever, or red streaking
- ⚠A thread that protrudes through the skin
- ⚠Skin colour change (blanching or darkening) over the nose suggesting vascular compromise
- ⚠Intense, unrelenting pain that does not respond to prescribed pain relief
Contact the Luxe Lips clinic immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Vascular compromise (skin colour change) requires urgent assessment. For life-threatening emergencies, call 000.
Your follow-up appointment
A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled 2–4 weeks after your HiKo nose thread lift. This allows the swelling to resolve so your practitioner can accurately assess the result.
During the review, your practitioner will check the thread position, the shape of the nose, symmetry, and your satisfaction with the outcome. Photographs will be compared to your pre-treatment images.
If minor asymmetry is present, additional threads may be recommended. Any concerns about sensation, stiffness, or healing can be discussed at this appointment.
Book a Consultation
If you are ready to discuss your treatment plan, book your consultation now.
Common questions about HiKo nose thread lift aftercare
How long does a HiKo nose thread lift last?
The longevity of a HiKo nose thread lift varies between individuals. PDO threads gradually dissolve over several months, often around 6–9 months. Changes within the surrounding tissue may persist after the threads dissolve, which can influence the appearance of the nose for some time afterward. Some patients discuss repeat treatment with their practitioner after about 12 months depending on their goals and response to treatment.
Is the HiKo nose thread lift painful?
Local anaesthetic is applied to the nose before the procedure, so discomfort during insertion is usually limited. You may feel pressure, tugging, or a mild crunching sensation. After the anaesthetic wears off, a dull ache is common for 1–2 days, manageable with paracetamol.
Can I really not wear my glasses for two weeks?
This restriction is clinically important. The weight of glasses on the nose bridge can shift the threads during the critical settling period. If you wear prescription glasses, plan ahead — use contact lenses, stick-on nose pads, or forehead-resting supports during the restriction period. Discuss options with your practitioner before the procedure.
How many threads are used in a HiKo nose lift?
This varies depending on the desired outcome and the individual’s anatomy. Typically, between 6 and 20 threads are used in a nose thread procedure. Threads may be placed along the bridge to support alignment or in the tip area to provide structural support. Your medical professional will explain the plan during your consultation.
Will other people be able to tell I have had threads?
The changes created by a nose thread lift are generally intended to be subtle. The procedure aims to refine the existing nasal profile rather than dramatically change the nose. Because the adjustments are typically modest, the change may not be immediately obvious to others.
Can nose threads correct a bump on the bridge?
Nose threads may sometimes help camouflage a mild dorsal bump by supporting the surrounding tissue, which can make the profile appear smoother in some cases. They cannot physically reduce or remove a bony bump. For significant bumps, surgical rhinoplasty may be more appropriate. Your practitioner will advise on what is achievable.
What happens if a thread pokes through the skin?
Can I combine nose threads with dermal filler?
Is there any scarring from nose threads?
When can I resume exercise after nose threads?
Can HiKo nose threads be combined with other treatments?
Can I blow my nose after a nose thread lift?
How does a nose thread lift compare to nose filler?
Your Next Step
If you have questions about your recovery, would like to discuss your aftercare, or are ready to book a follow-up appointment, the Luxe Lips clinical team is here to support you with clarity and care.
HiKo nose thread lift aftercare support at Luxe Lips
Post-treatment support is part of the service at Luxe Lips. A 24/7 medical professional is available to answer queries after your appointment. If you have a concern about your healing, regardless of the time, call the clinic and press 1 to alert the team to a medical concern relating to your procedure.
If something concerns you before your follow-up, do not wait. Contact the clinic directly. For appointments, consultations, or general enquiries, visit luxelips.com.au or call the clinic during business hours.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended as general guidance for patients who have received hiko nose thread lift treatment at Luxe Lips. It does not constitute medical advice. Every individual is different, and recovery experiences vary. If you are concerned about any aspect of your recovery, contact the Luxe Lips clinic directly rather than relying solely on this page. For urgent medical concerns unrelated to the procedure, contact your GP or call 000. Individual results may vary. No guarantee of specific outcomes is expressed or implied.
References
- Kang SH, Moon SH, Rho BI, et al. “Wedge-shaped nose correction using polydioxanone plate and threads.” Archives of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2018;24(1):30-34.
- Suh MK, Kang DJ, Moon SH. “Thread Lifting of the Nose.” Archives of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 2017;23(1):14-20.
- Ali YH. “Two years’ outcome of thread lifting with absorbable barbed PDO threads: Innovative score for objective and subjective assessment.” Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy. 2018;20(1):41-49.
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). “Regulation of absorbable implants and cosmetic procedures in Australia.” Australian Government Department of Health.
- Weinkle SH et al. (2018). Impact of comprehensive, minimally invasive, multimodal aesthetic treatment on satisfaction with facial appearance: The HARMONY Study. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(5), 540-556.
- Hoffman L, Fabi S. (2022). Look better, feel better, live better? The impact of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures on satisfaction with appearance and psychosocial wellbeing. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 15(5), 47-58.
