Contour Threads
OVERVIEW
A Contour Threads procedure at our North Carolina
Plastic Surgery facility, is a safe and effective
one that offers subtle, natural looking results.
This is a simple and convenient procedure with
immediate results and as it is minimally invasive,
there are no visible scars. Contour Threads are used
to reposition sagging cheeks, jowls, and neck; lift
sagging eyebrows; and adjust asymmetric brows or
face. Unlike conventional, smooth sutures, Contour
Threads have tiny barbs that are spaced evenly along
the thread. These specially designed sutures are
fashioned from clear polypropylene, a material that
has been safely used in the body for many years for
other medical procedures. |
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By gently shifting
sagging tissues in an upward direction, this
technique allows Dr. Anagnos to provide a relaxed, fresh
appearance while preserving and enhancing the
natural contours of your face. This procedure does
not replace a conventional facelift, rather it
offers patients an innovative, minimally invasive
alternative. The best candidates for this procedure
include both men and women, ages 30 to 60, who want
a more youthful appearance without having a full
face-, brow- or neck- lift. Contour Threads were
approved by the FDA in October of 2004, and Dr. Anagnos was one of the first doctors in the area to
complete the training course in January 2005 and
offer this exciting new procedure. It is not
uncommon to have this procedure combined with Botox
or Restylane treatments. Additional threads may be
added as needed.
SURGERY
A tiny incision is made as an entry point for a long
needle to guide the placement of the barbed sutures.
Once inserted under the skin, they are fixated, and
with tension, create a suspension that gently lifts
the sagging tissues. Once in position, your body
will soon generate new collagen bundles surrounding
each thread to maintain the lifting effect. Contour
Threads are clear in color, so they are not visible,
even under fair or thin skin. The procedure is
quick, typically around one hour, and is usually
performed under local anesthesia. |
RECOVERY
In most cases, there is minimal discomfort, bruising
and swelling. Ice packs and Tylenol are suggested
for the first 24-48 hours. Patients can usually
return to work or normal activities within a few
days. It is recommended that patients sleep on their
back, and avoid activities that may involve forceful
pressure or contact with the face, for at least
three weeks after the procedure. These
recommendations are made to avoid dislodging the
threads from their support locations. There are no
additional restrictions after three weeks.
RISKS
When Contour
Threads are placed by a trained physician,
complications are rare and this technique is
entirely reversible. The main risk associated with
this procedure is dislodging of the threads. If this
does happen, Dr. Anagnos can correct the problem.
Other rare complications include, numbness, facial
asymmetry, infection around the incisions, damage to
the facial nerve, and too much tension of the face.
Most of these risks can be eliminated by using a
doctor that has been properly trained and has
performed many of these procedures. |
BEFORE AND AFTER |
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Before |
After |
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If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us at 828-268-0082,
email us, or use our
online
request form. |
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