Most of us would like to turn back the hands of time and enjoy a younger-looking face. But fewer people are undergoing the in-depth process of a surgical facelift, and the statistics bear that out — about 134,000 people had full facelifts in 2000 compared to fewer than 97,000 in 2015. What this means is that newer techniques — both minimally-invasive and noninvasive — have been developed that enable women and men to fight off and even reverse signs of aging without the need for aggressive surgical procedures. Two of the most dramatic and popular options are Ultherapy® and thread lifts, and both can be used to help you achieve many of the effects of a facelift without surgery.
What is Ultherapy®?
Ultherapy® is a noninvasive technique that uses ultrasound waves delivered to the deep layers of skin where collagen fibers are found — the same layers of tissue that are targeted in a traditional facelift. But rather than pulling these tissues and reattaching them to create taut looking skin, Ultherapy® ultrasound waves stimulate the skin to produce more collagen so skin looks and feels firmer, less “lax,” and more resilient.
While Ultherapy® offers some immediately visible results, the best results will be seen over time as the body produces more collagen, which in turn forms strong networks to support the skin. Ultherapy® treatments only take about an hour to 90 minutes, depending upon the extent of the treatment, and there’s no downtime, so you can go back to your regular routine right after your treatment.
What is a Thread Lift?
Thread lifts use very thin absorbable sutures inserted through tiny openings in the skin to “grab hold” of deeper layers of tissue, then uses those threads to gently reposition facial tissues to reduce skin laxity and sagging. While different systems are available, we use NovaThreads®, an innovative system that relies on thin needles preloaded with absorbable sutures inserted in specific locations in the midface and lower face. The NovaThreads® procedure uses a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort, and the procedure can be completed in about an hour, with no downtime.
In addition to providing an immediate tightening, over time thread lifts stimulate natural healing responses and generation of new collagen that “hold” the tissues in place even after the sutures have been absorbed.
Can These Treatments Be Combined with Others?
Yes, and that’s one of the best parts – we are experienced in an array of procedures designed to help restore youthful skin in both women and men, and we’ll work with you to develop a custom program that’s based on your needs and your goals to help you get the results you’re looking for.
Facelift Without Surgery: Is it Right for You?
Ultherapy® and thread lifts can be great solutions for many patients with lax skin, restoring a more youthful profile and firmer skin without the need for surgery.
If you’re ready to look younger without the pain, downtime and cost of facelift surgery, call the Elizabeth Roche Medspa today at 201-505-1020. We’ll perform an in-depth evaluation of your skin and help you select the options that are ideal for your needs and goals.