(Also known as ‘thread lift’)

Why do people have an Aptos thread lift?
The thread lift procedure is very new to the cosmetic surgery market and is designed to tighten and reshape the face to halt the effects of sagging.

The procedure goes under a number of names (suspension facelift, silk lift or even Russian lift), but the basic treatment is the same. Small threads with tiny projections or cogs running along their length are implanted into the drooping areas of the face and tightened to support soft tissue and lift facial features. As collagen collects around the thread, features enjoy improved support and start to become more defined.

The treatment is regarded as a more attractive option to a facelift because it requires less procedure and recovery time. It is also cheaper and less invasive than a facelift with threads simply readjusted (or more added) as the patient grows older. If a patient is dissatisfied with the threads they can be removed.

It is particularly common among 30 to 50-year-olds who want to halt the signs of aging in the areas of their cheeks, jawline and brow.

Realistic expectations
It is critical that you spend time thinking about what you want to achieve from the procedure and talk about your hopes with your surgeon. It is also important that you understand what the procedure involves by being as fully informed as possible.

Remember every skin type is different and during the cosmetic surgery consultation you must discuss what you can realistically achieve.

What happens during consultation?
This is an opportunity to talk about what to expect during the procedure and tell the surgeon about your medical history and any medication you may be taking.

The consultation also offers the chance to discuss what anaesthesia may be required and the areas that you feel need treating.

You will also be asked what you want to achieve from a thread lift. Remember every person is different according to skin colour, ethnic background or age. The surgeon will advise you if your expectations are realistic

Getting the most out of your consultancy
Often in cases where clients are unhappy with the results of a treatment it is because they did not discuss their expectations thoroughly or were afraid to talk about the outcome or risks.

You have to make an informed decision before signing the consent form so ask plenty of questions. You want to feel relaxed, confident and completely understand what will happen.

You may want to know:

	•		About the surgeon’s qualifications.
	•		How many thread lifts are carried out each year by this person.
	•		How you prepare for the treatment and how long it will take.
	•		What realistic results can be expected and when.
	•		Which aspects of the procedure are the most appropriate for you.
	•		How long the results will last.
	•		About the side-effects and possible complications.
	•		How long it will take to recover.
	•		How the face will change in time.
	•		What happens if anything goes wrong.
	•		Where the procedure will take place.

Preparing for your thread lift
Your surgeon will advise you of any special requirements before your procedure. You will also discuss what preparations you may have to make in anticipation of the local anaesthetic. What may be required will depend on the type of treatment you have discussed and the results you want to achieve.

What happens during surgery?
You face will be thoroughly cleansed with powerful anti-bacterial agents, the areas to be treated marked out and a local anaesthetic applied containing a blood-constricting solution.

A thin tube known as a ‘trocar’ containing an Aptos thread is then inserted into the treatment areas. Once in place the tube is positioned and a thread slotted inside. An exit point is made and the ‘trocar’ removed leaving the thread inside for detailed positioning and anchoring. The areas are then taped to avoid the thread moving out of position.

A new thread is inserted for each of the pre-agreed areas to be treated. It is important that you discuss the procedure carefully with your surgeon. He or she may apply a slightly different method of thread insertion depending on the area.

After surgery:

	•		Your surgeon will visit you and advise you when you can leave.
	•		There is likely to be some bruising, inflammation and red areas as a result of the insertions and local anaesthetic.
	•		During the following days this will slowly subside.
	•		Ideally you should not talk or make exaggerated facial gestures 24 hours after surgery to allow the threads to anchor properly.
	•		Avoid any facial pressure such as a massage for one month, rubbing your face, sleeping face down, harsh cleansers or shaving.
	•		The full support strength of the thread is achieved after three weeks and the results of facial tightening will continue to improve during the next three to six months.
	•		Immediately after the procedure avoid alcohol, aspirin, garlic, food oils and smoking. All of these can interfere with the body’s healing processes.
	•		Any discomfort, bruising or swelling should be treated with a mild analgesic like Paracetamol. Do not use aspirin.

All procedures carry an element of risk
Most people believe that the benefits of a thread lift far outweigh the risk. However before you sign the surgery consent form you should be aware of any possible complications and side effects.

Deciding on a thread lift
It is important that you take your time to make an informed decision about the procedure. Complications are rare but you must consider any potential outcome. Any concerns you have must be discussed with your surgeon.

	•		Bruises formed by the treatment may take several weeks to heal.
	•		There will be minute scars left by the puncture marks caused by the insertion of the thread. Scars usually fade but do not necessarily disappear completely. This depends on your skin type.
	•		There is the possibility that an Aptos thread may become visible beneath the skin or even poke out. Should this happen you must inform your surgeon immediately.
	•		If a thread is dislodged it may cause a lack of facial balance, again you must contact your surgeon.
	•		The results will last for several years but the threads will not halt the ageing process.