The Non-Surgical Facelift Thread Lifts

The Thread Lift occurs in 2 phases. There is an immediate lifting of the skin at the time of the procedure by virtue of the thread material anchoring onto the skin, this is known as the ‘mechanical lift’. Some of this will drop off over the first month as the threads settle into place. However the second and long-term part of the Thread Lift is the new collagen that is produced as the thread is broken down by the body, a process known as neocollagenesis. This takes place gradually over the following 6 months and is what accounts for the long-term lift that is produced. Results will generally last 18 months to 2 years, however the collagen that is produced in the skin will last for much longer than this.

Topical numbing cream and local anaesthetic is used to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Once the area to be treated is numb the procedure itself is relatively painless. After the procedure paracetamol & ibuprofen is generally adequate for pain relief.

On arrival to the clinic patients are offered an oral relaxant medication and a single dose of antibiotic. Pre-photos are taken and then planning of the procedure takes place. This is vitally important as it determines the direction of lift that is achieved. The area to be treated is numbed with topical & local anaesthetic. Once everything is prepared the Thread Lift is performed, generally only taking about 30 minutes (however, expect to be at the clinic for up to 2 hours). After the procedure incision sites are dressed and follow-up is arranged.

Every patient will have a degree of swelling, bruising & discomfort. This is mild for most patients, but can be significant in a small number of people. This will settle over the following 2-3 weeks.

Skin texture irregularities (such as tethering or puckering) can occur, however they will also resolve over the following 2-3 weeks as the skin re-drapes in its new position.

Setting realistic expectations are important. The procedure will create an improvement in the sagging of the face, but will not achieve the lift that would occur by undergoing a surgical procedure such as a face lift.

Uncommonly infection can occur, however this risk is minimised by the procedure being performed under sterile conditions in a fully accredited medical facility and a prophylactic antibiotic given prior to the procedure.

The degree of swelling and bruising differs between patients. In most it is only mild and many patients will return to work the next day. However complete resolution of swelling and bruising will take 2-4 weeks.

It is generally advised to have someone drive you home after the procedure and rest for the remainder of the day. If you are feeling well you can return to work the following day.

For the first 7 days try to sleep on your back while the threads are settling into place. Suggest putting a pillow under your knees to prevent you from rolling onto your side. If you wake up on your side do not worry, even if the threads are to shift slightly the amount of collagen produced (and the longterm lift) is unchanged regardless.

No swimming in pools/spas/ocean for 3 weeks to ensure that incision sites have healed.

No strenuous exercise for 4 weeks.

The cost will vary depending on site and number of threads used. The average price is $4400. Please see our prices.