What is Face lift?
Face lift, also known as thread lift or face thread lift, is a minimally invasive procedure where dissolvable sutures are placed under the skin to “lift” and reposition the facial tissue.
It involves the use of a special, implantable surgical thread that lifts sagging skin on the forehead, eyebrows, mid-face, and the neck. Other than the face, threads can also be used to tighten the loose tissue on forearm and abdomen.
How does it work?
Ageing process is associated with bone resorption, atrophy of facial fat, loss in muscle mass, and degradation of dermal collagen and elastin. These changes manifest clinically as wrinkles, folds, creases on the skin, with sagging of remanent tissue under the effect of gravity. A thread face lift can reverse these signs of ageing by repositioning the facial tissues without surgical complications.
Face lift employs usage of bio-compatible threads made of polydioxadione (PDO) which get absorbed inside the deeper dermis within 6 months of instillation.
Diminishing the lines and smoothening the folds by lifting skin at a deeper level, is the complete purpose of threads.
Threads give you instant improvement in terms of less droopy and lifted face. Simultaneously fibroblasts are also stimulated to produce more collagen in deeper dermis along the direction of threads, improving the firmness of the skin.
The result is stimulated anti – ageing effect of instilled threads and more supple and rejuvenated skin which lasts for good 18 to 24 months.
This procedure is much more rewarding and cost effective!
What are the benefits of face lift?
Thread lifts offer many benefits including the following:
Rejuvenates and makes skin look more rested and firm
Allows a more defined facial contour
Achieves a youthful look without scarring and the need for general anaesthesia
A quick and effective solution for a wide range of ageing problems
Who is an ideal candidate for face lift?
Face lift is most effective for women 25 – 45 years of age with early signs of ageing.
Older women in their late 50’s and 60’s can also benefit from the procedure to reduce sagging and wrinkles.
How is the procedure done?
Face lift is a minimally invasive procedure. It is done in sterile conditions taking complete aseptic precautions.
Steps of the procedure –
- The client is made to lie comfortable in a reclining chair.
- A sterile draping sheet is put on the client.
- The face is thoroughly cleaned and sterilised with an alcohol swab.
- Direction and line of suture placement is marked on the skin.
- Local anaesthesia is given to make the procedure painless.
- PDO threads mounted on needle are inserted from the entry points along the direction previously marked.
- The needles are gradually withdrawn on by one, leaving the threads inside the layers of the skin. The filaments on the sutures are deposited into the sagging parts of the face.
- Gentle tug is given on the threads to elevate the droopy skin and set it into a more youthful-looking position.
- Anti-bacterial cream is applied at the end.
How much time does it take for the procedure?
The procedure is very simple that can be done in just 45-60 minutes.
Is it painful?
Thread lift is associated with slight discomfort. Hence, it is better done under local anaesthesia.
What can I expect during my recovery period?
Face thread lift has no down time.
There might be slight swelling which usually subsides by the next day. If in case any bruising occurs while inserting the threads, it may take a week for it to resolve.
What results can I expect after the procedure?
You can appreciate an instant lift of your sagging tissues. Deep folds and wrinkles improve along with the fine lines. The sagging old looking face is immediately converted to a lifted young looking face. Maximum result is appreciated 3 months after the procedure as the collagen remodelling that is stimulated by the PDO threads starts to show its clinical effects by then.
You can also notice a significant improvement in the texture and tone of the skin.
The skin feels firmer, brighter and more glowing.
How many sessions are required?
Face lift is a single sitting procedure. However, As ageing is a continuous process, repeat procedure can be done after 18-24 months.
How long does the results last?
The results of thread face lift are long lasting as not only the tissues are physically pulled up but also the existing collagen and elastin are stimulated to reform and restructure. The effects usually last for 18-24 months.
What are the risks involved?
When performed by an experienced doctor, the procedure is very safe. However, minor side effects may arise including subtle bruising and swelling in the affected area, which usually resolve on their own within a week.
