Ask Dr. Man- Thread Lift

Dear Dr. Man, I’m 55 years old and am starting to see the signs of aging. As a Christmas gift to myself, I will be getting plastic surgery. I visited a plastic surgeon last week and he recommended I get a thread lift. Can you please tell me how this differs from a traditional facelift? Also, what does this procedure entail?

Thread lifts are an alternative to a face lift for patients who want lifting and tightening of their cheeks, mid-face, jowls or eyebrows, but don't want to undergo major surgery. A thread lift provides many of the benefits of a face lift, with fewer risks and a shorter recovery time.

A thread lift uses threads to make the face appear firmer and more lifted. Thread lifts are done under local IV with sedation. During the procedure, the doctor places a special thread below the skin. The thread is used to lift sagging skin and tissue, which is anchored underneath the hairline. The procedure takes about 1-2 hours. Potential side effects may include bruising and swelling. Recovery usually takes about a week.

Over the years, thread lifts have seen improved methods that have been recently been given FDA approval. The results are almost immediate. Many patients report that a thread lift gives a natural-looking result.

By seeking procedures like thread lifts when the first signs of aging have occurred, patients can take a proactive approach to aging, maintaining a desired appearance before advanced signs are visible.

Like all cosmetic procedures, thread lifts are not for everyone; patients must have realistic expectations about what it can achieve. Ideal candidates for thread lifts include people who have minimal signs of aging and need just a little lift. If major signs of aging are apparent, then more traditional, surgical options may be the best way to achieve a more youthful appearance.

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Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.