APTOS THREAD FACELIFT

AN INTRODUCTION TO APTOS THREAD FACELIFT

This is a non-surgical approach to facial lifting using the patented "Aptos threads".
These threads are inserted under the skin to lift the sagging areas. Once released internally the facial features will remain anchored in their new positions. The fact that the threads can be "touched up" in the upcoming years to maintain the natural and youthful appearance obtained, makes this invention invaluable. Before this, the only resource available was the traditional facelift with all its risks, trauma, prolonged downtime and high cost.
 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

WHAT ARE APTOS THREADS?

They are made of a material called polypropoline and are designed with directional cogs. Once inserted under the skin the thread cogs will form a support structure for the tissue of the face.

HOW IS THE PROCEDURE DONE?

The skin is prepped with iodine and then a thread-vectoring plan is drawn on the face. This is developed after having discussed the facial changes-what features we keep and which must go. Small amounts of local anesthesia are used and the threads are implanted through a hollow needle. With a hand held mirror you will be able to help to assess the transformation and aid in giving minor adjustments. When you are happy we are happy. The face is cleansed again and small pieces of tape are applied at the insertion site.

HOW SOON WILL I SEE RESULTS?

Early results can be seen in just less than 24 hours.

Real results are first seen after 2 weeks.

Final results will be seen in 4-8 weeks.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

It will last from 2-8 years (like a traditional facelift).

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE?

An ideal candidate is a person (male or female), that has some initial facial aging, shown by subtle or evident "loosening" of the tissue as well as changes in youthful features. People with severe aging can greatly benefit with a well implanted full set of Aptos threads, unless they have extensive excessive skin. It can also be used for someone who finds a previous facelift sagging.
 

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS:

Even with a highly experienced physician performing the treatment, there are some possible side effects. They include:

• Redness, bruising and swelling may be noted.
   
• There is a chance of infection, as there is with any procedure.
   
• There is a possibility of the tip of one of the threads peeking out close to the skin. It is annoying, but not an emergency. You should clip off the tip of bright blue thread that shows using nail clippers or small scissors or call for a touch up consultation.
   

PATIENT CREATED FEEDBACK:

Before:

Once you have decided on this procedure, there are several ways to make life easier during and after it. For the day preceding the procedure, you should take 5 of the Arnicas Montana "pills" three times per day. These are a homeopathic remedy that has been widely used to treat swelling, bruising and bleeding. The directions tell you to place them under your tongue and let them dissolve.

During:

The Doctor will freeze the area of your face where the "sutures" will be implanted so pain during the procedure should not be an issue. Generally the sensation is one of pressure while he is working on the area, but it is not painful. Procedure times vary, but you can plan on approximately 30-60 minutes for a forehead and approximately 30-90 minutes for the lower part of your face. There is minimal bleeding during this procedure, although this varies with the person also. No sutures are necessary to close any of the small cuts made by this.

After:

It is important to note that while this is a relatively non-invasive procedure, tape will be applied to your face for a period of 3-8 days. You will need to make a follow-up appointment to have your tape removed. For the first two weeks, you need to sleep on your back and not apply pressure to the area where the sutures have been implanted. During, this time, they are not connected securely into the tissue and could be moved. Your outcome is partly determined by how carefully you treat your face for the first few weeks. Don't shower until the tape has been removed and your Doctor instructs you that it is safe to do so. If you need to wash your hair, it is best to lie back in the tub and gently wash it. Avoid pulling on the area where the sutures have been implanted. You may return to work as long as it is not extremely physical (although you will be wearing the tape).

After the procedure you may have some discomfort, although this is rare. Motrin is generally all you may need to relieve the pain.

In the days and weeks following the procedure, you may have any or all of these symptoms: swelling, bruising, itching, skin peeling or skin tenderness. While these are all to be expected and should not be a concern, please contact your Doctor if you are alarmed about anything, or experience any problems.