Contour Threads™ Lead the Way in Modern Non-Invasive Face-Lifting Procedures
Gary D. Monheit, M.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Dermatology
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama

Quickread: The Contour thread™ is a strong and stable barbed thread used in non-surgical face-lifts today, showing very positive cosmetic results. Procedure times are shorter and aesthetic results last longer than non-invasive techniques, possibly setting a new bar for non-invasive mid-face and brow lifting procedures, according to one expert.

Palm Springs – Minimally invasive face lifting procedures using barbed threads seem to be the future in cosmetic face lifts, and are also more aggressive approaches than traditional surgically invasive procedures. Of the barbed threads available on the market today, Contour threads™ seem to be the most popular in terms of durability and positive cosmetic outcome, according to one specialist.

“The Contour thread™ can effectively elevate sagging tissues like the brows, cheeks, and mid-facial areas, and easily reposition the mass and volume in these structures. They can be used to reshape the brow to create a prettier arch, as well as soften the appearance of jowling,” said Gary D. Monheit M.D., Associate Clinical Professor of the Departments of Dermatology and Ophthalmology at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

Dr. Monheit said that the key points that set the Contour thread™ apart from other barbed threads on the market are its unique barbed design, providing an optimum holding and breaking strength not seen with other threads. The FDA approved Contour thread™ has attached needles to the suture materials for ease and convenience, and a longer thread length for greater control and lifting. Another major benefit is its clear polypropylene material, which is not visible in light skinned patients.

Aptos threads use 3 pathways to direct the threads through the subcutaneous tissue and SMAS of the mid-face to lift the malar fat pad and nasolabial fold. According to Dr. Monheit, the non-approved Aptos threads carry with them several disadvantages, compared to the Contour threads™. He said that the Aptos threads are free-floating which may lead to unwanted thread migration, there can be thread splitting, as well as a questionable longevity and tensile strength of the thread.

The Articulus CT400™ (the next generation of the Contour thread™) is the first knotless fixated barbed suture that combines two unidirectional threads to elevate and fixate sagging facial tissue. Its new and improved suture technology boasts a reduction in procedural time, and increases holding strength in the tissues. This thread is designed to compliment the Contour threads™ as an adjunct lifting procedure.

Dr. Monheit said that when marking the face of the patient just prior to the Contour thread™ procedure, it is crucial to decide on the direction of elevation and visualize the result while palpating the skin. The surgeon should plan from a fixed to a mobile area for optimal results, and also demonstrate to the patient the plan of the procedure.

“Advancing the Contour thread™ is a simple 4 step procedure consisting of incision, deployment of Contour threads™, the fixation of the proximal suture and suspension, and then careful and purposeful contouring of the tissue,” Dr. Monheit said.

He said that immediately post-op, the patient will likely experience some swelling, redness, bruising, discomfort, tightness and pulling. These side effects are more or less expected but are mild and fortunately short-lived.

“The thread lifting procedure can be done in approximately 1 hour under local anaesthesia, and in an in-office ambulatory setting. The patient will not have any visible scars and will experience only a mild discomfort following the procedure. Furthermore, there are little or no dressings post-procedure and the physical recovery time is only a week,” Dr. Monheit said. The patient, though, must contend with folds and dimples for 2 to 3 weeks to maintain corrections.

He said that this is very different from the conventional face-lifting procedures. Here, the procedure lasts anywhere from 2-4 hours and sedation or general anaesthesia are required. Patients will experience some post-op pain and some scarring will occur. Patients must receive a helmet dressing and the recovery time is longer, lasting anywhere from 2-3 weeks.

Dr. Monheit said that he likes to give his patients prophylactic antibiotics to avoid any unwanted complications of infection. He also tapes the face to remind the patient to restrain from facial motion, which helps to achieve a more positive aesthetic outcome. He reminds the patient not to pull down on the facial areas for 3-4 weeks post-op and to minimize facial expression or mimicking. He stressed that patients should sleep on their backs and keep the head elevated for 1 week following the procedure, as well as hold their brows up with their fingers when making facial movements.

Directly following a thread lifting procedure, Dr. Monheit carefully instructs his patients to apply ice-packs for 1-2 days, avoid the sun for a several days, to refrain from smoking pre- and post-op, as well as to steer clear of vitamin E and NSAIDS 2-3 weeks pre- and post-op.

This procedure represents another step in the direction of less aggressive procedures for facial rejuvenation.