Thread Lift with Threads is a safe and effective procedure that offers subtle, natural-looking results. This technique allows the doctor to produce a relaxed, refreshed appearance while preserving and enhancing the natural contours of your face. Thread Lift does not replace a conventional facelift, rather it offers patients an innovative, minimally invasive surgical approach to achieving facelift-like results.
How is it performed?
A ThreadLift™ utilises a very small barbed surgical suture (Polypropylene) to lift and support the droopy areas of the brow, cheeks and jowls. Threads™ are inserted in precise locations using a needle via very small stab like incisions. Once inserted under the skin layers into the fatty layer, the bars open in an umbrella like fashion to form a support structure that lifts and repositions the tissues into a more vertical and youthful position. Uniquely the Thread is secured in deeper tissue on the hairline (brow and mid-face) and behind the ear (neck). This anchor supports the lift during the adjustment process and for the months afterwards.
What are barbed sutures?
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Unlike conventional sutures which are smooth, Threads™ have very small hair-like barbs (similar in concept to a porcupine) that have been developed through extensive research and have the most effective geometrically patented "barb" design in the world.
What do the Threads™ look like?
Threads™ are clear so they are not visible under fair or thin skin.
How do they work?
The unique design of the barbs of Threads™, causes surrounding tissues to hold the Threads™ in place without the need for visible scars. The doctor makes a small 'stab' incision behind the hairline and the Threads™ are advanced along previously marked contours to create a firm hold on the underlying tissues without causing any additional trauma. The barbs do the work of holding by being fixated to tissue as they are softly contoured into place. Once in position, your body generates new collagen bundles that surround each thread to help maintain the lifting effect.
Does it hurt?
You will be given a local anaesthetic to have the procedure. Post-procedure, the pain and discomfort varies from patient to patient (usually depending on how many regions have been elevated). For some patients the pain is very minimal and in others the pain can be stronger. Most patients will need to take Paracetamol at the least for a few days (especially for sleeping) and for those patients who experience strong pain then Paracetamol with Codeine (such as Panadeine Forte) might be required for up to a week.
Is it safe?
When performed by a trained and experienced doctor, the procedure is very safe. The doctors at Cosmos are highly skilled and experienced in performing this procedure. The risks and complications are uncommon and easily correctable. The actual sutures are made from polypropylene, which is a material that has been used in brain, heart and abdominal surgery for many years. In the rare event of a complication, the sutures can be removed or repositioned as needed.
How many treatments will I need?
Usually only one procedure is needed to achieve the desired lifting effect. The beauty of this procedure is that you can go back to your doctor after a few months to discuss further elevation.
What kind of care is required after the procedure?
Following a ThreadLift™ procedure, there are some practical instructions and care that must be followed to avoid dislodging the Threads™ from their supportive tissue whilst the collagen reaction takes place. These include avoidance of forceful facial rubbing (massage), strong active movement (support brow if coughing/sneezing), sleeping on the side of your face, avoiding excessive mouth opening (e.g. eating apples) and some sporting activities.
When can I return to work and activities?
Depending upon your workplace and tolerance for some minor bruising, swelling and possible dimpling, you may be able to return to work in two to three days following the procedure. However it may take up to seven days before you can return to normal activity.
How long do the results last?
Depending on the age of the patient at the time of the procedure, the degree of sagging and the number of Threads used, the duration can vary from two to three years.
What are the possible side effects?
When performed by ThreadLift™ trained doctor the procedure is very safe and complications are rare. All of the following minor complications are treatable. These may include swelling, bruising, skin irregularities, asymmetries, puckering and infection. In some cases, patients may feel some tightness or pulling or may be able to feel the Threads™. Since this technique is entirely reversible, unwanted side-effects are usually easily corrected under local anaesthetic.
Can this procedure be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
The Thread lift is a stand-alone procedure. However, it is not uncommon to have this procedure combined with botulinum toxin.
Are the Threads™ permanent?
Threads are non-absorbable and will not dissolve over time.
What areas can be treated?
Threads are used to:
- Lift sagging eyebrows
- Adjust asymmetric eyebrows
- Reposition sagging cheeks
- Lift drooping soft tissue of the mid-face
- Smooth out premature skin aging.
What type of results will I see?
The effects are immediate. During the time of your consultation your physician will demonstrate in the mirror the relative amount of lift that the Thread Lift can achieve. It takes between one to three weeks for the whole effect to settle and reveal the final result.
How long does it take to perform?
The ThreadLift™ is most commonly performed under local anaesthesia. The procedure usually takes less than 90 minutes to complete, depending on the number of Threads™ used. Patients are able to go home soon after the procedure.
Can the procedure be adjusted?
Yes. If there is loss of lift on one side or both, your doctor can correct this with additional Threads™. If there is an irregularity or excessive pull then the thread can be released slightly to correct it.
Are there any other treatments that may enhance or preserve the effect?
Injectable muscle relaxants are highly recommended if a brow lift with Threads is being performed as it will reduce the risk of broken Threads
Will I still be able to have a conventional facelift or a browlift at another time?
The unique design of Threads™ allows a traditional facelift or browlift procedure to be performed when you are ready.
What can be done if I don't like the result?
The Thread Lifts entirely reversible. Your doctor can remove or replace Threads™ as needed.
How much of a lifting effect can I expect?
The exact placement of the Threads will vary from patient to patient. Results will vary depending on the extent of sagging and the degree of lifting desired, as well as the technique of the physician and the number of Threads used in each area treated. Many patients can achieve a 50% improvement after one treatment session.
Who is a good candidate for a ThreadLift?
In general, the best candidates for a ThreadLift™ include both women and men from the mid thirties to sixties who want a more rejuvenated look and yet do not want to have an open surgical face or brow lift. Ultimately, the procedure is ideal for those looking for 'rejuvenation' not 'transformation'. All potential candidates need to be assessed by a ThreadLift™ doctor to ascertain the individual suitability despite the age range quoted above.
How do I know if I am a good candidate?
The best way to answer this question is to consult a ThreadLift™ trained doctor, as he/she will know what this procedure could or couldn't do for you. Ideal candidates are women and men in the thirties through the sixties with moderate drooping of the soft tissues of the brow, face and neck. You should not be too heavy, thick or thin-skinned or have to much skin laxity. You should consult with your doctor about your medical history and any medications you are taking, such as blood-thinners, to understand how these could affect your suitability for the procedure.
Who is NOT a good candidate?
- Patients with a very thin, fragile, slack or aging skin.
- Patients who are looking for a dramatic transformation.
- Very heavy, jowly faces.
- Faces that are too thin.
What is my next step?
To obtain more information contact Dr Joseph Ajaka or Dr Farah Meher-Homji at COSMOS Cosmetic Medicine on 1300 138 797 or email us at info@cosmosclinic.com.au. |
