Have you heard about the non-surgical thread lift? Facial thread lifts have been around for a number of years, but many people are still unfamiliar with the effectiveness of the procedure. The technology has greatly improved over the past few years and now facial threads are being used more extensively across the country such as Los Angeles, New York and now Lone Tree and the Denver Metro area of Colorado. Until recently the only way that you could get real facial lifting was with a surgical face lift as the effects of laser or ultrasound are highly patient dependent. These procedures achieve up to 30 percent lifting effect although some cases could achieve more. Once loose skin is present only a scalpel can truly lift heavy sagging skin on the neck or jowls. If you are an individual with mild to moderate sagging or do not want to have surgery, then you may be a candidate for a facial thread lift.
What is a facial thread lift? A non-surgical thread lift uses material that is biocompatible with human tissue. The temporary sutures are strategically placed in areas of the face that will gently lift the tissue producing a younger effect. The sutures dissolve over the course of 4 – 6 months, while stimulating your own body’s natural collagen through the healing response. This is a very important component to maintain youthful skin. The sutures greatly enhance the production of collagen in the areas where the threads are placed
Collagen is necessary for the health and structure of the skin. In addition to wound healing, collagen keeps skin strong, and supple. Women lose 30% of their collagen as they go through menopause and over all, skin can lose greater than 50% of its collagen throughout a lifetime. As we age, many things contribute to the health of our collagen. A healthy diet and exercise coupled with limited alcohol consumption is important to maintain collagen levels.
There are several different types of thread lifts available. You may have heard of Nova, Miracu, MINT and InstaLift threads. The first three are all polydioxanone. Mint and Miracu threads are both molded which adds strength to the barbs which are important in lifting the facial tissue. InstaLift, which is also a biocompatible material uses a combination of poly glycolic acid (PGA) and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) with tiny cones which helps lift the skin.
The down time or recovery for facial thread procedures is very short. For three days post the procedure, you should avoid opening the mouth too widely such as with eating. No vigorous rubbing of the face the first week. No heavy exercise for 7 days and avoid sleeping on your face especially the first 3 nights. Avoid sunlight immediately post the procedure. If you must be out in the sun, ensure you wear sunscreen. It is best not to fly in the first 24 hours as the cabin pressure may affect the facial swelling. Mild swelling and mild facial tenderness may occur the first few days and is expected. No heat should be applied to the face, such as a laser for 8 weeks post procedure.
The ideal thread candidate is between 35 and 55 years old. There are exceptions, but generally this is the ideal timeframe for successful thread procedures. Individual with heavy jowls and a falling neck are typically surgical candidates. Threads could provide some benefit for a refreshed look in older clients who are not surgical candidates as long as they have realistic expectations about results.
It is important to understand that no procedure is permanent as we all continue to age. As a guide, surgical facelifts can last up to 10 years while a thread lift will last 12 to 24 months.
As we have come to see the advancement in the material used for threads lifts, I made a concerted effort to become master certified in the procedure. I have completed five trainings sessions over the past 18 months, and I am confident that you will be satisfied with your results. I feel this procedure is going to continue to grow in popularity, and I look forward to serving you soon.
Deb Tong PA-C
Elevation Med Spa
Lone Tree, CO
