As the aging process begins, the connective tissue thins and collagen and elastic fibres break down. These changes in the support structures appear as sagging, deep creases, folds and wrinkles that can appear in your thirties. A procedure with patented threads, called a thread-lift is a safe, conservative and effective one that offers subtle, natural-looking results. By gently shifting sagging tissues in an upward direction, this technique allows Dr Dixon to produce a relaxed, fresh appearance while preserving and enhancing the natural contours of your face. This procedure does not replace a conventional facelift; rather it offers patients an innovative, minimally invasive
approach.

In general, the best candidates for this procedure include both women and men in their thirties through their sixties who want a more youthful appearance, but do not want a conventional full facelift or brow-lift procedure.

Possible indications may include:

• Moderate drooping of the soft tissues of the brow, face and neck
• Poorly defined upper and mid face contours

What areas can be treated?

Threads are used for:

• Repositioning sagging cheeks
• Lifting sagging eyebrows
• Adjusting asymmetric brows & face

What are “barbed” sutures?

Unlike conventional sutures which are smooth, the threads used in thread lift procedure have tiny barbs or cogs, that are spaced evenly apart. Once inserted under the skin, they are fixated in an umbrella-like fashion and with tension creates suspension that gently lifts sagging tissues of the brow, face and neck.

How do they work?

Due to the unique design of the cogs of the threads, the surrounding tissues act to hold the threads in place without the need for visible scars. For the mid-face procedure, Dr Dixon makes a tiny incision close to the ear and the threads are advanced along the previously marked contours toward the chin and jawline so they create a firm hold on the underlying tissues without causing additional trauma. The cogs do the work of holding, by being fixated to tissue as they are softly contoured into place.

Once in position, your body generates new collagen bundles that surround each thread to maintain the lifting effect. The exact placement of the threads will vary from patient to patient.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure is quick and usually performed under local anaesthesia, and if desired, light intravenous sedation. The actual length of time will depend on the number of threads used. A typical procedure usually takes about 60 minutes to perform.

How long is the recovery?

In most cases, there is minimal discomfort, bruising and swelling. Ice packs are recommended for the first 24-48 hours. Patients can usually return to work or normal activities in a few days to one week.

How many treatments will I need?

Usually only one procedure is needed to achieve the desired lifting effect.

How long do the results last?

Duration varies depending on the age of the patient at the time of the procedure, the degree of sagging, and the number of threads used. Additional threads may be added as needed.

Will I still be able to have a conventional/traditional facelift or a browlift at another time?

Absolutely. Developed by a board certified plastic surgeon, the unique design of these threads allows a traditional facelift or browlift procedure when you are ready.

Patient Benefits (When compared to traditional surgical approaches)

• Minimally invasive approach with minimal scarring
• Reduced procedural and recovery time
• Patient satisfaction is more immediate
• No General Anaesthesia - local anaesthesia and sedation as required
• Lower risk of complication

Contact Dr Peter Dixon today using our simple online enquiry form, for more information on the Thread Lift procedure.