One of the most recognizable signs of aging is skin that sags in various areas of the body. This happens as skin slows its collagen production over time, resulting in a loss of elasticity and firmness. The threadlift procedure is one of the very few anti-aging treatments that can lift drooping skin without invasive surgery.
Dr. Michael Villano of VillanoMD in Bend, Oregon, is Central Oregon’s specialist in the threadlift procedure. He was the first cosmetic specialist to offer this option to his patients, and continues to integrate improved techniques and material as the procedure has evolved since it was first introduced almost ten years ago. Dr. Villano offers two FDA-approved threadlift options, both with proven results. The threadlift procedure promises patients not yet ready for surgical lifts a minimally invasive lift option for tightening sagging skin.
How long will my results last?
You may notice a youthful-looking appearance that continues to improve over 6 months following treatment with long-term results lasting up to two years.
Who is a good candidate for the threadlift treatment?
It is important that your threadlift procedure be performed only by a qualified physician who has had special, comprehensive training and is familiar with the techniques required. And, as with all treatments, be sure to consult with your physician first to establish whether the threadlift procedure is the right procedure to address your needs and achieve your facial aesthetic goals.
The threadlift procedure is most often recommended for women anywhere from their mid-30s to around age 50 who are seeking a rejuvenated, yet natural-looking appearance, as well as experiencing a loss of elasticity and the increasing appearance of sagging skin and lost volume in the mid-face. If you have started to look in the mirror and lift your cheeks, wishing you could turn back the clock and revert to your former, more youthful reflection—we’ve all done that at some point, haven’t we?—then the threadlift procedure is likely a good option for you: the woman who is looking for an immediate lift and additional volume over time. In fact, she may have previously received, or is receiving, cosmetic injectables but doesn’t yet feel ready, or the need really, for surgery. While she has good skin quality, she is nevertheless beginning to notice a thickening of her nasolabial folds and an increase in the sagging of her cheeks.
How should I prepare for treatment?
First, talk to your physician. It’s really important that your physician understand what your goals and expectations are relative to any treatment or procedure you undertake. A preliminary personal consultation is the essential starting point for any facial aesthetic procedure. Also, you must be sure to tell your physician about any treatments you’ve already had and any medicines you’re currently taking. All of this should be covered during your preliminary consultation.
Is the threadlift procedure done in an office?
Yes. The threadlift procedure is safely performed in a physician’s office and typically takes less than an hour to complete. That’s why it is one of our more popular “lunchtime” procedures. Downtime is minimal, roughly similar to injections. There can be some bruising, swelling, pain or tenderness at the treatment site. But you can expect that most signs of treatment will dissipate within the first 24-48 hours post-procedure.
Will I need general anesthesia?
No. The threadlift is a safe, outpatient procedure that is performed under local anesthetic only. This is used to numb the area before treatment so that yours is a pain-free experience.
What should I do after treatment?
- Apply cold packs immediately after the procedure if required (cold packs should be wrapped to avoid direct contact with skin and insertion point)
- Acetaminophen may be taken in case of pain
- Makeup may be gently applied after a minimum of 24 hours
- Sleep face-up, in an elevated position on pillows for 3-5 nights
- Do not rub face aggressively when washing, shaving and drying face for 5 days
- Avoid excessive face and neck movements for 2 weeks
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and UV light for 2 weeks
- Avoid participating in high impact sports (e.g., running) for 2 weeks
- Do not use saunas for 3 weeks
- Avoid dental surgery for 3 weeks
- Avoid facials or face-down massages and facial aesthetic treatments for 4 weeks
**Always consult your physician should you experience any side effects.
Who should not get a threadlift treatment?
The threadlift procedure is not appropriate for patients with any known allergy or foreign body sensitivities to plastic biomaterial, or in situations where internal fixation is otherwise contraindicated (for example, in the cases of infection). Theadlifts are not advised for patients who have very thin soft tissue of the face as the implant may be palpable, or in patients with excessive heavy skin due to advanced aging. The threadlift procedure is also not for people who are unwilling to commit to the recommended post-procedure considerations that are to be observed to ensure an optimum outcome.
How much does a threadlift cost?
The cost of the threadlift procedure will vary according to each patient’s individual needs and goals. The first step in establishing whether a threadlift procedure is the best option for you is to schedule your personal consultation. Talk with your physician about your facial aesthetic goals. Together you and your specialist can create a plan to achieve them.