Non-Invasive Thread Lift: The Future of Face Lift

by Andy Cheng Director

The gap between non-surgical and surgical aesthetic treatments is becoming smaller. Thanks to the advanced medical technologies, treatments offered by aesthetic doctors are increasingly becoming more similar to plastic surgeons, with less invasive anti-aging, skin lifting treatments that have minimal downtime.

Thread lift was initially introduced in the late 90’s. However, it didn’t enjoy much popularity back then because the downtime was long and it caused too much trauma for the patient. Furthermore, people were not receptive of the non-invasive thread lift and were not confident of the results. It fell out of favor until Sinclair Pharma PLC renewed the public’s interest of non-invasive thread lift in recent years.

While many people are still uncertain about the outcome and the longevity of non-surgical thread lift (sometimes also known as “lunchtime face lift”), Dr. Siew Tuck Wah, Medical Director of Radium Medical Aesthetics says that the new technology and the convenience of non-invasive thread lift treatments are some reasons why non-invasive thread lift procedure is gaining popularity as an alternative to face lift surgery.

Although not as radical as a surgical face lift, a non-invasive thread lift can lift sagging skin visibly, giving you a more defined, v-shaped facial contour and making you look less tired with less downtime and less cost.

What Is A Non-Surgical Thread Lift?

A non-surgical thread lift is a minimally invasive treatment usually done with local anesthesia or oral sedatives. Using absorbable sutures made from biodegradable material, the doctor uses the threads to lift and contour the face. Cones or barbs are present along the threads to anchor the sagging tissues under the skin.

Using a fine needle, each thread is carefully inserted under the skin at precise points. Attached to the fine threads are tiny cones or barbs that are responsible for lifting and tightening the sagging tissues under the skin. It effectively raises sagging skin such as cheeks, jowls, mouth and neck to its new lifted position. At the same time, the cones stimulate collagen production in the treated areas over the next few months after the treatment.

It is perhaps better to consider non-surgical thread lift as a preliminary rejuvenative procedure as an anti-aging treatment, rather than a surgical alternative.

Silhouette Soft Thread Lift

Silhouette Soft Thread Lift uses resorbable sutures made of Poly L-Lactic acid (PLA) (also the same ingredient in Sculptra). PLA is a bio-compatible polymer that is used in a number of biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.

Using PLA monofilament with unique cones made of Lactide/ Glycolide, the threads act as a scaffolding under the surface of the skin to lift sagging tissues. The cones are essential to anchor the sagging skin to lift the skin to its new, lifted position. At the same time, the cones stimulate the body’s production of collagen to replace loss volume which diminishes with age.

For the next few months post-treatment, your skin will continue its rejuvenative effects to restore volume to the face.

What Can I Expect During the Treatment?

Silhouette Soft Thread Lift procedure is performed under a local anesthetic.

Each thread mounted on a 25G needle, is inserted under the skin to guide the doctor to push the threads upwards until they are taut and embedded. During the process, the doctor pulls back the sagging skin and soft tissues and anchor them using the small cones that are found along the length of the threads in their new — more youthful — position.

What Will I Look Like After the Treatment?

Visible lifting can be seen immediately after the treatment.

You may notice some swelling or needle marks at the entry points on each side of the face. Although they may remain visible for 1–2 days, most people are able to cover them up with makeup.

It is not uncommon to experience some bruising and swelling around the entry points. You may feel tender around the entry points but it should be resolved in about a week. Although your face may feel tight for a few days, it will relax and the result will gradually become more natural in a week.

How Long Does the Result Last?

As the threads are absorbable, they will dissolve in about 6 to 9 months after the treatment. However, the skin will remain in its lifted position for a further 12 to 18 months.

You may choose to repeat the treatment in about 18 months as the longevity of repeated treatments tend to be longer than the previous treatment.

What Do I Need to Avoid After Thread Lift Treatment?

The post-treatment care is important to ensure the efficacy of the treatment. Adhering to the following advice as much as possible:

· Sleep on your back for the next 1 week after the procedure

· No facial massage or dental treatment for 1 month

· No makeup for the next 48 hours

· Go back to the doctor to address any dimpling or indentation at the entry or exit points

Do I Need More Treatments After Undergoing Silhouette Soft Thread Lift?

Silhouette Soft Thread Lift treatments only provide lifting of facial contours. However, when combined with other treatments such as Ulthera Skin Lifting, TriPollar V Lift, or Precision Facial Sculpting with Facial Fillers to fill deficient areas, a thread lift can provide some truly outstanding cosmetic results.

Alternatively, if Silhouette Soft Thread Lift is not suitable, the doctor may recommend you to undergo PDO thread lift treatment or a combination of both.

Is Silhouette Soft Thread Lift Suitable for Me?

The best candidates are young to middle-age people with mild to moderate sagging skin who want to soften their wrinkles and mild nasolabial folds. This anti-aging treatment is best suited for people who have apparent sagging skin with weak facial contours, but have sufficient collagen deposits to stimulate production.

Areas that can benefit greatly from Silhouette Soft Thread Lift treatment are eyebrows, cheeks, jawline, and neck.

Although Silhouette Soft Thread Lift treatment can achieve wonderful lifting results, having realistic expectations are also essential. In most cases, the maximum lift that a thread lift can achieve is about 1 to 1.5cm. Threads do not work well for people with excessive sagging skin.

Arrange for a consult with your doctor and discuss your needs and the results you expect. Your doctor will perform a thorough assessment of your skin condition, skin type, and bone structure before he will recommend the most suitable skin lifting treatment for you.