A thread facelift is a convenient, less invasive procedure, designed for people experiencing early signs of aging, such as minor facial sagging. This innovative facelift procedure can be performed in just one or two hours, often without anesthesia. During a thread facelift, the cosmetic surgeon inserts thin threads into the face through tiny incisions made in the targeted area. These threads attach to the skin tissue and are then pulled back to lift and smooth the face. Almost immediately, treated areas will be raised slightly, eliminating sagging and giving patients a rejuvenated appearance. Because patients usually remain fully conscious during the procedure, they can approve the look of their thread lift while the surgeon works. Once the threads are knotted, they become hidden within the skin itself, and any scarring that results will be virtually invisible.

Apart from the large cheek area (mid/lower face), the Stitch Lift technique can also elevate the brow, upper face and the neck.

A Contour Thread Lift is a type of thread facelift that uses unique Contour Threads. Made of clear polypropylene, the threads are nonabsorbable and are guided along previously designated contour lines, improving precision. Inserted through small incisions made above the hairline, the barb-covered threads tighten and lift sagging skin for a more youthful-looking appearance.

The best candidates for a thread facelift are in their 30s to 60s and have relatively good skin tone. Most are beginning to experience sagging in their face or neck but do not have excessively loose skin or drooping facial areas that might require more rigorous facelift surgery. If signs of aging are relatively minimal, a thread lift may be a good way to make cosmetic enhancements while avoiding facelift scarring and other potential side effects, which sometimes occur after more intensive surgical procedures.

The recovery period is relatively brief. Most patients can return to social activities within a week and a half. The least one can expect is 1 week and at the most 3 - 4 weeks. There is discomfort at the anchor points of the threads but this is managed by common oral analgesics and anti-inflammatories. Patients will be given simple instructions to avoid particular things that might put stress on the sutures. These are important in the first 4 weeks following the procedure.

It is very important that you follow the advice of your surgeon carefully after a thread lift so as not to disrupt the placement of the threads.

Post-surgery advice may include:

• You can resume normal activities (light walking, sitting up, watching television, using a computer, etc.) within the hour but you should take it easy during the first few days.
• You should not talk, laugh or smile excessively or make exaggerated facial movements for the first few days.
• You should not sleep on your face for the first week.
• You should not shave your face, use chemical peels, scrub it or use harsh cleansers for the first week.
• You should avoid any strenuous exercise or sexual activities for the first week.
• You should not massage, rub or apply pressure to your face for one month as this could disturb the threads.
• You should use recommended painkillers as required.
• Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any signs of infection or if you experience bleeding or a sudden increase in pain.

Although not as invasive as other lifting procedures, the area treated will often be sore with some swelling or puffiness for a few days, with possibly bruising which will last about a week.

Side effects and risks are minimal and rare but may include:

An allergic reaction to the anaesthetic. A risk of small haematomas or seromas (collections of blood under the skin) occurring. Mild infection at the site of the thread insertion, although every precaution is taken to prevent this.