PFRANKMD
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. Dr. Frank has performed hundreds of Thread Lifts since 2001 working with several types of ‘threads’ over the years. In the last decade, 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.
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. 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 judgement of the physician. Popular areas include the neck, jawline, cheek, and brows.
Treatment and recovery is quick and the downtime is similar to facial rejuvenation with neuromodulators and fillers. Over weeks and months, the body heals around the suture and builds tissue that persist beyond the body’s adsorption of the material. Results can last 1-2 years and often complement other treatments including injectable and tightening devices. Great for patients who want to avoid injectable treatments, as well. Ask Dr. Frank if you are a candidate for this exciting procedure.