With threads being one of my most popular and favourite medical aesthetic treatments, I decided to focus this blog only on thread lifts.
Many of my first-time thread patients have a lot of questions about thread lifts. I will be addressing some of the most common questions in this blog.
So, what is a thread lift?
The thread lift is an exciting new technique used to lift and tighten sagging facial tissue. This non-surgical alternative is growing in popularity. Specialized threads are inserted and attached into the deeper tissues of the skin and, if positioned properly, create a firming and tightening effect. An added benefit is that threads stimulate the formation of collagen. Compared to surgical face lifting, thread lifting involves far less trauma. There are no visible scars. No skin is cut away. The procedure is quick and has a low risk of infection. The initial results are seen immediately and results continue to improve as the collagen and elastin form and mature. Thread lifting can last anywhere from 18 to 24 months, but some people report effects for even longer.
How does it feel?
- A local anaesthetic is first gently injected to make sure you do not feel any pain during the procedure. Following that, you will feel a light tugging on the skin. After the procedure, you may have some mild bruising and swelling for two to three days which ice packs will take care of.
- The goal is not only lifting of sagging skin, but also a regenerative process that leads to the production of a patient’s own collagen, which rejuvenates the skin. The threads generally have a skin supporting, tightening, and brightening function.
What thread do I use?
I use a high quality, global multi-award-winning product, designed and developed by internationally published plastic and reconstructive surgeons. All the threads I use are CE, ISO and FDA approved with meticulous and strict manufacturing processes according to international standards.
What are the threads made of?
The brand of threads I use is unique in their product range, as well as their composition and creation. Absorbable materials, P(LA/CL), are used for the majority of Aptos threads, allowing results to last from 1.5 to 2 years.
Polylactic acid is a chemical stimulant for collagen formation, resulting in rejuvenation of the skin, and Caprolactone maintains the integrity of the thread, thereby extending its lifetime.
There is also a permanent thread option available which is made from polypropylene and these results can last an impressive 2-5 years.
Commonly treated areas include:
- Eyebrows
- Contours of the face
- Jawline
- Cheeks and mid-face area
- Sub-mental area (below the chin)
- Nose
- Ears
- Lips
- Breasts
- Arms
- Thighs
- Belly buttons
Advantages of the thread lift
- Minimally invasive: no incisions or stitches
- Only requires local anaesthetic
- Reduced treatment time
- Minimal post-treatment downtime
- Little to no side effects
- The procedure is low risk
- Overall improvement of skin quality
- Results are immediately visible
- Dual action: lifting and rejuvenation
- Long-term effect (1-5 years, depending on the thread composition)
- Safe to use with other aesthetic procedures (such as fillers)
- The individual patient assessment ensures the selection of the best thread and method to produce the desired effect.
Who is the ideal candidate for Thread Lifts?
- Mild to moderate signs of ageing
- Loss of tissue volume
- Development of fine lines and wrinkles
- Sagging eyebrow
- A relaxed / sagging mid-facial appearance
- Thinning of the lips
- Prominence of the jaw
- Slight bags under the eyes or on the neck
- Patients with some relapse from a previous procedure such as a facelift or neck lift
- Facial asymmetry
- Skin dehydration
3rd Generation Threads with Hyaluronic Acid
P(LA/CL)HA thread is an improved formulation, which ensures additional benefit for the skin. Improved Skin elasticity and texture is visible right after thread implantation.
Results
Today, by using threads it is possible to reinforce soft tissues of the face, neck hands, chest, décolleté, knees, hips, abdomen; also to correct defects, lift, rejuvenate the skin or give volume, where necessary.
The result of using threads will be visually noticeable right after the procedure and will increase with time. After about two months you will be able to assess the maximum effect and enjoy it for several years.
Side effects
As the treatment is minimally invasive, few side effects can be expected. You may experience temporary bruising, swelling and asymmetry – these will subside within 1 to 2 weeks.
Before and after the procedure:
- No special preparation is required prior to the treatment
- However, we recommend that you discuss your expectations and ask Dr Blink any questions you have before starting treatment
- Inform Dr Blink of any treatment you have already received and of any medicines you are currently taking
- Avoid blood-thinning medicines and vitamin E a week before and after treatment
- Application of threads must be performed by a doctor who has undergone specific training
- The procedure is not painful. The treatment is performed under local anaesthesia and does not leave scars
Post-Treatment Recommendations:
- Apply ice packs immediately after the procedure
- Take analgesics in case of pain for 2-3 days
- Refrain from applying make-up for minimum 24 hours
- Sleep face up, in an elevated position on pillows for about 3-5 nights
- Wash face gently without rubbing or massaging for 5-7 days
- Avoid excessive face and neck movements for about 2 weeks
- Avoid face and neck massages for 1 month
- Avoid over-exposure to direct sunlight for 2 weeks
- Avoid intense sports and exercise for 2 weeks
- Do not use saunas for about 3 weeks
- Avoid dental surgery for 3 weeks
We encourage you to be your own kind of beautiful and we are here to help you on your journey to be the best version of yourself.
Please contact Dr Blink on 021-0033600 or email info@drblink.co.za for a consultation to discuss your personalised aesthetics treatment plan.
DR. BLINK
Dr Blink is a professional level Aptos certified Medical Aesthetics practitioner.
