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Facial Threads
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 affect both men and women. Facial threads are a minimally invasive option designed to address some of the early signs of facial and neck ageing, offering a gentle lifting effect without traditional surgery.
During a facial threads procedure, fine resorbable threads are placed beneath the skin to subtly reposition soft tissue. These threads also stimulate collagen production and help improve microcirculation over time. Treatments are performed under local anaesthetic and usually take one to two hours. Most people return home the same day and resume normal activities soon after. Unlike a surgical facelift, facial threads do not involve incisions, which means scarring is uncommon. Outcomes vary between individuals, and no cosmetic procedure can stop the ageing process, but facial threads can provide meaningful yet natural looking rejuvenation.
Aptos threads feature a multidirectional barbed structure that helps anchor tissue and provide support. This design allows for both an immediate lifting effect and progressive improvements as new collagen forms. Depending on factors such as age, skin condition and lifestyle, results generally last between 12 months and 3 years. A consultation is essential to determine suitability, as not everyone will be an ideal candidate. During your consultation, Dr Richard Hogben, an internationally certified Aptos Thread Lifting trainer with more than 15 years of experience, will explain the procedure, benefits, limitations and potential risks. Side effects can include swelling, bruising and mild discomfort. Although uncommon, more serious complications can occur, and these will be discussed in detail.
If you would like to explore facial threads or alternative rejuvenation treatments, please contact our clinic to arrange a complimentary consultation.
Facial Thread Lift Options and Ideal Candidate Guidance
Facial threads can be tailored to target areas such as the midface, jawline or neck, making them suitable for people noticing early skin laxity or those seeking subtle, natural looking refinement. Clarifying how Aptos threads support different treatment areas helps people understand what improvements are achievable while staying aligned with your clinical approach. Facial threads are most effective for individuals who want a gentle lift rather than a dramatic surgical change, prefer minimal downtime or wish to refresh previous rejuvenation treatments.
What to Expect Before, During and After Facial Threads
Providing a clear outline of the treatment process enhances confidence and sets realistic expectations. Prior to treatment, a personalised assessment is completed to understand goals and determine whether facial threads are appropriate. During the procedure, local anaesthetic ensures comfort as resorbable Aptos threads are gently inserted to support tissue and stimulate collagen. After treatment, temporary swelling or bruising may occur, and minor activity modifications are recommended. Most people return to normal routines quickly, with both immediate lifting and gradual improvement visible as new collagen forms. This combination of short recovery and progressive enhancement illustrates the value of facial threads for those seeking a refined, long lasting result without surgery.
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.