Facial Threads: A Non-Surgical Approach to Rejuvenation

Understanding the Aging Process

As we age, the skin and underlying structures naturally change. Collagen and elastin levels gradually decline, leading to reduced firmness, changes in facial contours, and visible sagging. These are normal processes that occur over time and can affect both men and women.
Thread lifting is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to address some of the early signs of facial and neck ageing. It may be suitable for people seeking a subtle lifting effect without undergoing traditional surgery.

During the procedure, fine resorbable threads are inserted beneath the skin. These threads are intended to gently reposition soft tissue, while also stimulating collagen production and improving microcirculation over time. The treatment is usually performed under local anaesthetic, and generally takes one to two hours. In most cases, people can return home the same day and resume normal activities soon after. Unlike surgical facelifts, thread lifting does not involve incisions, which means scarring is uncommon. However it is important to understand that outcomes vary between individuals, and no cosmetic procedure can stop the ageing process altogether.

Aptos threads are designed with a multidirectional barbed structure to help anchor tissue and provide support. The procedure may provide both an immediate lifting effect and progressive improvements over time as collagen production continues. The longevity of results can vary but often lasts between 12 months and 3 years, depending on individual factors such as age, lifestyle, and skin condition.
As with all medical procedures, a consultation is required to determine whether thread lifting is appropriate for you, as not everyone will be a suitable candidate. During your consultation, Dr Richard Hogben, who has been performing thread lifting procedures for over 15 years and is a globally certified Aptos Thread Lifting trainer and supervisor to doctors worldwide, will provide a comprehensive explanation of the procedure, potential benefits, limitations, risks, and expected outcomes. Possible side effects may include bruising, swelling, mild discomfort, infection and asymmetry. Although uncommon, more serious complications can occur. Dr Richard will also discuss how potential risks are managed during your consultation.

If you would like to learn more about thread lifting or other skin rejuvenation options, please contact our clinic to arrange a complimentary consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is different about these new threads and how do they compare to the older type of threads?

The new generation Aptos™ absorbable revitalizing threads are very different to the older type of threads. These new absorbable threads have the advantage of reabsorbing slowly over 2 years, yet still maintaining the revitalizing effect for several years to come before another procedure is considered. The other advantage of these new generation threads is the unique design utilising specially developed and patented soft barbs (also known as cogs) that attach to the surrounding tissue (just like Velcro) helping to hold the skin in place to achieve the desired lift. A revitalizing thread lift with these new generation absorbable threads is an effective and cost-conscious way to achieve the desired result without scarring and to no downtime.

How long have these absorbable threads been available?
The new absorbable threads have been available for 12 months in Australia and New Zealand. However, they have been available overseas for a number of years. The Aptos excellence visage and the range of Aptos revitalising threads have been voted the best absorbable thread available for the last four years. Although new, the material from which the absorbable threads are made from is the same material that has been used in conventional dissolvable sutures that have been used in surgery for many years.

What can an Aptos Revitalizing Thread Lift do for you?

Your doctor will advise you as to your suitability for an Aptos Revitalizing Thread Lift. For those patients who are candidates, the Aptos™ threads are ideal for helping to delay the ageing process and address sagging areas such as:

The face and neck.

Cheek bone area.

Lift sagging eyebrows.

Correction of the marionette line.

Support of the neck skin area.

Jowl area.

Adjusting asymmetric brows and face.

Your doctor will advise you on the specific areas where you will achieve maximum benefit.

How do they work?

The revitalizing threads have a unique design and utilise specially developed and patented soft barbs (also known as cogs) that attach to the surrounding skin tissue (just like Velcro) to hold the skin in place and achieve the desired lift effect . The resulting beneficial effect can be achieved quickly and without any scars with minimal to no downtime. Your doctor may also choose the absorbable Aptos™ threads; these threads reabsorb slowly over 2 years but still maintain the revitalizing effect for several years before another procedure is considered.

How long does the procedure take?

This depends on the number of threads being used in the procedure; however most procedures take 45 to 60 minutes. The procedure is done with just local anaesthetic and and as a result feel little if any discomfort. The important point is that this procedure does not require hospitalization and patients can drive home immediately after the procedure. Your doctor will give you specific guidelines at the time of consultation.

When can I get back to my usual social life?

The majority of patients resume normal social activities the next day. Your doctor will advise you on this point as there are some follow up requirements to ensure the best result.

What are the possible side effects?

Occasionally some local discomfort or light pain may occur; this can be treated with oral analgesics. Sometimes local bruising may be evident. Cold compresses are recommended for the first 2 hours after the procedure. Your doctor will explain more fully at the time of consultation.

Can this procedure be combined with other cosmetic procedures?

It is not uncommon to have thread lifting with other cosmetic procedures. It is best to consult your thread lifting provider for further information.

Are Aptos™ Revitalizing Threads different to other threads?

Yes, Aptos™ threads have some unique properties that sets them apart from other threads, however they utilise the same principles that have been used in medicine for many years.

The Aptos™ threads have a unique design that offers superior grip on the surrounding tissues to achieve the revitalizing effect. Unlike conventional thread that are smooth, Aptos™ threads have small soft barbs (also known as cogs) that are double spiked which provide a superior grip on surrounding tissues – just like Velcro. The Aptos™ threads are also available as absorbable threads meaning that the threads absorb slowly over 2 years compared with other threads available in Australia that dissolve quickly over 6 to 9 months but leave the skin in place for several more years before another procedure is considered. Aptos™ threads offer a revitalizing lift that can be achieved quickly with a minimum of downtime and without any scars.

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