Hardly a lunchtime lift

Lately, when you look into the mirror to do your morning facial regimen, have you been noticing small signs of ageing such as sagging cheeks or bags under the eyes?

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For many women over 35, there’s a thought at the back of their minds to get something done to their face to retain a fresh and youthful look. Yet, they hesitate and often push that thought away because they are afraid to indulge in invasive and drastic procedures. If that’s your case, a thread lift may be a procedure to consider. This procedure is a non-invasive “pick-me-up” face rejuvenation that has a short recovery time, is reversible and more affordable than surgical alternatives for face lifting.

I’ve heard quite a bit about the thread lift, but I’m not too sure what it is.

A thread lift is a kind of facelift that can be done over lunch, offers instant results and has a speedy recovery time. But unlike a typical face lift, this procedure requires no skin removal as it relies on the skin-tightening effect of the threads to create a younger looking face. Because of its apparent ease, you may have often heard it referred to as a lunchtime lift, a weekend lift or even a suspension lift.

Are threads really used to lift the face?

Yes, just like the name suggests, this procedure involves the use of threads to lift the face. A dermatologist or surgeon will use thin needles to make tiny incisions at the hair line and insert threads under the skin.

There are a few types of thread lifts. Probably the oldest and most common type involves Aptos threads which are made of a non-absorbable monofilament material with tiny barbs called polypropylene. This thread has been used for surgical stitches for a long time.The barbs on the threads are attached to the underlying tissue and gently pulled tight to lift sagging skin on the face and neck. Another type commonly used is suspension or smooth threads. Usually made of prolene or nylon, these threads need to be suspended from good anchoring points on the scalp or face.

The exact placement of the threads varies from patient to patient. Over time, the body produces collagen around the barbs, helping support the new elevated position of the skin. Unlike a face lift, this treatment is reversible.

Can it really be done in an hour during lunchtime?

The length of time depends on a few factors; the age of the patient, the area to be treated, the level of sagging and the number of threads required. But on average, it takes about an hour, hence the name lunchtime lift. It is brief enough that it has even been performed on the Oprah and Good Morning America shows. You also usually need only one procedure to get the desired outcome. So it’s only a one-time, one-hour procedure. On the contrary, a traditional facelift takes about four hours and needs anaesthesia, but of course the results are also more drastic and the effects longer lasting.

Who are the best candidates for this procedure?

The best patient is usually someone who doesn’t actually need to get anything done. If you’re looking for a subtle lift and want minimal recovery time then a thread lift is for you. It’s usually women aged 35 to 45 who come for thread lifts, because that’s the time they begin to see slight sagging on the mid face or bags under the eyes. Thread lifts can fix weak jaw lines, sagging cheeks or chins or even drooping eyebrows and eyelids. However, those with a lot of skin sagging and expecting drastic results might be disappointed.

What recovery time is needed?

Although the procedure can be done over lunch, the recovery time, even though short, is more than an hour. You’ll need a day or sometimes up to a week but rarely more, depending on the area treated. You can usually go back to work the next day, but you might need to wear a thin, flesh-coloured bandage. It’s also likely you won’t be comfortable attending social functions for up to a week. During the recovery period, for optimum results, it’s best to avoid rubbing the face or eating foods that require a lot of chewing.

Is it a safe procedure and what are the side effects?

If done professionally, the thread lift is a safe and effective treatment that offers subtle, natural-looking results. In this procedure, incisions are small and there is no interruption of the blood supply to the skin. However, if not well done, like anything else, there can be complications. Common issues involve the sutures, which are made of polypropylene, being felt or seen. This may cause headaches or a pricking sensations under the skin. In extreme cases, the threads can break or stick out of the skin. But this is rare, and usually the worst it gets. Learn more by Clicking Here.

How much will it cost?

This obviously depends on the area to be treated, the severity of the sagging, and the place you’re getting it done. If it’s done well, it’s worth the money. Since the result is amazing, you can loan at loanovao to borrow money for another procedure. For more information on their loan offers, visit loanovao.co.uk.