Aging is an inevitable phenomenon, and it affects the skin just as it does every other organ in the body.
However the most significant physical changes happen in the subcutaneous fatty layer. In a person of normal weight, it is fat deposits under the skin which are the major contributor to a youthful appearance. Collagen, which gives structure alongside bone, also contributes to a healthy and young appearance.
Aging processes reduce the volume of both fat and collagen, leading to less defined features, changes in facial shape and less plump cheeks.
Aside from ‘internal aging’, outside factors like sunlight and pollution accellerate skin aging.
Certain areas, such as the cheeks and neck are both exposed to the elements and have a lack of strong underlying structure.
As we all get older, collagen and fat which give our faces struture over bone start to thin. But other structural changes to fat pads, ligaments and muscle can also aggravate aesthetic changes, for example with patysmal bands (vertical neck lines).
Can Aging Neck and Cheeks be treated?
These skin and structure changes are unavoidable, but there are effective aesthetic techniques which can help renew the underlying support and shape of the neck and cheeks. The use of thread lifts allows for the correction of both superficial and deep layers of the skin, giving a more complete and natural look than other non-surgical interventions.
Threads are now a well understood treatment with a number of different designs and characteristics to help improve various aspects of facial appearance.
The most common signs of aging in the neck that patients are concerned about are platysmal bands, a double chin, wrinkles and skin roughness. Again, these changes arise from multiple factors, but the changes can be reversed using threads.
Depending on the thread type and technique used, lipolysis (fat breakdown) can be promoted, along with angiogenesis (new blood vessels) and production of collagen which gives its own support to the skin. The threads not only tighten skin, but reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture.
How Effective are Thread Lifts?
Thread lifts are a very safe and effective treatment. Considering the results of thread lifts when compared to the more invasive surgical face lift the outcomes are even more impressive.
A recent study of patients requiring either neck, cheek or eyebrow lifts were 77% satisfied with the results after one week. However, the level of satisfaction reported continued to increase week by week until there was an average 96% satisfaction rate.
Specifically for facial rejuvenation, a special thread known as a PDO (Polydioxanone) threads have been developed. These threads include a smooth, mono-filament thread, a coiled mono-filament version and others, all giving an increase in collagen production in the local area.
PDO threads are also resorbable, meaning they eventually break down within the skin. Studies have shown that resorble threads have the lowest complication rates of all threads.
How do threads actually work for the neck and cheeks?
Non-barbed threads simply pull skin the desired direction and give underlying support. Whilst the varying types of barbed theads can stretch the skin in more than one direction, cogged threads can also lift a greater degree of underlying tissue by grasping directly to it.
PDO threads however, also create a cascade of real changes within the skin itself. Their use creates a metabolic response form the body, increasing collagen growth and improving skin structure.
So PDO threads are used in the cheek and neck to improve skin elasticity, flexibility and firmness, whilst also restoring some structure.
brow lift side effects
brow lift side effects
Are threads right for me?
For both the cheeks and neck skin, threads are an excellent choice.
For surgeons, there are 2 major reasons to use threads, either to rejuvenate the skin or to elevate it when it is sagging. At a basic level, PDO threads help with rejuvenation and fullness, whilst barbed threads are more useful when working with sagging skin.
PDO threads have further indications, such as:
- Minimising fine lines
- Skin tightening under the neck
- Lifting the cheers
- Creating a fuller look to lips
Barbed threads, due to their mechanical action are useful for:
- Reducing naso-labial folds
- Marionette lines
- Neck and Jawline definition
- Contouring both upper and lower cheeks
Conclusion
Conclusion
What are the potential complications with Neck and Cheek threads?
Neck and cheek treatments involving threads have similar risk profiles when compared to other thread usages. Threads are a safe procedure, and resorbable threads are even safer.
Complications include:
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- Mild swelling and discomfort Threads are minimally invasive, giving little post operative swelling and pain. This is treated with simple application of an ice pack and some paracetamol.
- Bruising The introduction of a foreign body will naturally break some of the small blood vessels under the skin. Again, use of ice post-operatively reduced the already minor level of bruising.
- Dimpling Dimpling, as in the creation of a dimple, or small depression in the skin can sometimes occur when a barb is placed close to the surface of the skin. Fortunately the majority of dimples resolve by themselves, with larger dimples fixed by the surgeon at the time of operation.
Neck and Cheek Rejuvenation
PDO threads, and threads in general, are widely accepted as the gold standard for non-invasive facelifts. Results are seen immediately, and lifts of up to 1cm can be achieved. With the use of polydioxanone, the threads also provide organic dermal reconstitution through the proliferation of new collagen.
For those who want to avoid a more aggressive surgical face lift, threads represent the most effective and safest option for improved aesthetics and youthful looking neck and cheeks.
At The London Facial Care, Dr.Fern uses her expertise and experience to guide clients via assessment to the best treatment modality for them. The modern, central London clinic is independently audited by the CQC (Care Quality Comission) as providing safe, effective, compassionate and high-quality care.
To book an assessment, click here.