ThreadLift™

Threadlift™ and Other Suture Suspensions 
An undisputed fact of the aging process, facial sagging occurs as the facial connective tissue thins and the collagen and elastic fibers start to break down.  These changes in the face’s support structure typically begin in the 30s, and are often seen in the forehead, cheeks, jaw line and neck. 

Many procedures are designed to reverse this common aging problem, including a fairly recent development called suture suspension or cable lifts, more commonly referred to by such product names such as the Threadlift®.  The suture suspension lift is a nonsurgical procedure to subtly rejuvenate the face by placing suture material with tiny barbs under the skin.  The barbs implant into the tissue so that when the sutures are pulled, they gently lift the tissue and reposition the skin to a more vertical and youthful position. 

In your case
Suture suspension lifts are most effective in younger patients who want to correct early effects of sagging skin, but who are not yet ready for a forehead, midface or lower facelift.  The technique does not replace conventional lifts, but rather offers patients an innovative, nonsurgical way to achieve a relaxed, fresh appearance while preserving and enhancing natural facial contours.  Thread or cable lifts offer an ideal complement to other facial rejuvenation techniques such as Botox®, dermal fillers, chemical peels or laser therapy to improve skin texture.  The threads can be removed and won’t interfere if you decide to have a traditional face lift, brow lift, or neck procedure. Dr. Sykes is experienced in using several suspension lifting products, including the Threadlift® and will help you determine if this procedure is likely to produce the results you would like to achieve. 

What to expect
The full procedure takes from 30 to 60 minutes under local anesthesia.  Results are nearly immediate.  Risks and complications are rare, and any pain or discomfort is minimal.  Less traumatic than surgery, suspension lifts leave no scars, and offer rapid recovery with generally minor swelling and bruising.  You can expect to resume normal activities the next day, and return to work in two to three days.  Suspension lifts can be expected to last three to five years and can be repeated.

Suspension Lift Fast Facts
The following are general guidelines only.  Variations are common.