Thread Lift
For over two decades, surgical sutures have been used throughout the world to non-invasively lift and tighten tissue in an attempt to avoid facial plastic surgery. Various types of sutures of many shapes, sizes, and constitution have been used, coining the name of many techniques such as the thread lift. In the last decade at PFRANKMD by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, we have seen a huge boom in injectable facial fillers and non-invasive skin tightening devices that have enabled us to rejuvenate the face with low risk and downtime. Until recently, thread lifts became dormant for many years, if not obsolete, given their limitations compared to these other techniques. Despite all of our options for facial rejuvenation, there still exists a desirable niche for a safe, easy, low downtime lifting procedure that either fillers or tightening devices cannot accomplish.
What Are Thread Lifts?
NovaThreads are synthetic absorbable surgical sutures composed of polydioxanone. PDO sutures have been used in cardiovascular surgery for years and are considered one of the safest materials that can be implanted in the body. In comparison to older permanent thread technology, your skin fully absorbs PDO threads in 6 months and will not leave scar tissue behind. Sutures, incisions, and risks are dramatically smaller than those of years prior.
How Do Thread Lifts Work?
During the thread lift procedure, your provider strategically places dissolvable sutures under the skin. These sutures gently pull the skin into a higher position, offering an immediate lifting effect. The threads used are biocompatible and gradually dissolve over time, leaving behind collagen scaffolding that maintains the skin’s lifted appearance.
Dr. Frank Performing a Thread Lift Start to Finish
Ideal Candidates for Thread Lift
Thread lifts are ideal for individuals experiencing early signs of aging, such as mild to moderate sagging skin. They are suitable for those who wish to achieve a more youthful appearance without undergoing a full facelift. The best candidates are typically in good overall health, with realistic expectations about the results.
Benefits of Thread Lifts
– Minimally invasive requiring no incisions, reducing scarring risk
– Quick recovery allowing daily activities soon after
– Natural-looking results with a subtle, refreshed lift
– Collagen thread lift stimulation promoting long-term skin firmness
What to Expect During a Thread Lift Procedure
The technique Dr. Frank prefers is the NovaLyft which can provide a dramatic and immediate result by utilizing sutures that have ‘barbs’ or ‘cogs’ that grip and lift underneath the skin. Under local anesthesia, a small cannula similar to those used with fillers is inserted just under the skin in the trajectory of desired lift. Once the suture is in place, the skin is massaged and set in the desired lifted position. Singular or multiple threads can be used in any desired area depending on the needs and judgment of the physician. Popular areas include the neck, jawline, cheek, and brows.
Results and Recovery
Thread lifts require minimal downtime. Patients may experience slight swelling or bruising, which usually subsides within a few days. The results are immediate, with continued improvement as collagen production is stimulated. The effects of thread lifts can last from 12 to 18 months.
PFRANKMD Thread Lift In the Press
Are you looking for a non-surgical way to lift and rejuvenate your facial features? Contact us today to schedule your thread lift consultation at our conveniently located offices on 5th Avenue or in the West Village of NYC.