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What are NovaThreads? – Dr. Soleiman Answers Your Questions

by | Feb 27, 2020 | Injectables

NovaThreads is a relatively new way to stimulate collagen and enhance skin rejuvenation. Though this may sound simple, there is a lot you need to understand about NovaThreads and what this cosmetic enhancement can do for you.

What better way to understand innovative technology in the cosmetic world than to turn to Dr. Sherly Soleiman, a top cosmetic professional? As a certified and award-winning Allergan medical facial aesthetic trainer, Dr. Soleiman understands the art of non-invasive cosmetic procedures.

What is NovaThreads? In this guide, Dr. Soleiman answers the most frequently asked questions about NovaThreads.

What Is NovaThreads?

NovaThreads is a cosmetic enhancement that uses Polydioxanone (PDO) threads, which are typically used to suture wounds. These threads do an outstanding job of healing cuts by stimulating collagen. Because of this property, it is quite brilliant that they are loaded into the needles for NovaThreads; this way, they can be inserted under the skin to stimulate collagen and rejuvenate the skin. Barbed threads have the added benefit of pulling the skin up or back depending on the vector of insertion.

These threads are used to help achieve desired results without the need for any surgical skin removal. Collagen helps promote wound healing while providing the skin with a youthful appearance. This is the main reason NovaThreads is so sought out. It provides progressive rejuvenation and skin tightening without patients having to undergo an invasive procedure.

The threads used in the treatment are very small and typically undetectable by the patient. Increased collagen production can create a natural and gradual progression to firmer skin.

What Are the Advantages of NovaThreads?

The huge advantage of NovaThreads is the fact that the procedure is noninvasive and has very minimal risk. As with any type of injections, you may experience some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort or pain.

The threads work 24/7 for six months (the life of the thread) to stimulate collagen, as well as provide some tensile strength in and of themselves.

Other procedures such as PRP, microneedling, and lasers stimulate collagen production for a week or two. PDO threads, however, continue to produce collagen for six months. In general, the collagen that’s produced can last up to two years.

In addition, this is a noninvasive procedure and does not require sedation. There is little to no recovery time needed. The procedure is done right in our office, and there is no need to take extended time off work.

What Are the Disadvantages of NovaThreads?

The only disadvantage is that they are not easily removed once they are inserted and the tail end is cut. Having said that, we’ve had a 100% satisfaction rate so far and no one has ever requested removal!

What Areas of the Body Can NovaThreads Be Used On?

They can be used anywhere. They are most commonly placed in the upper and lower cheeks, the upper lip, the area below the chin to prevent drooping, the neck to reverse skin crepiness, and décolletage to prevent sleep lines in the center.

What Are the Different Types of NovaThreads?

NovaThreads is made from a material called PDO. This material is specialized and created to reabsorb into the body over time during the skin’s natural healing process. There are a few shapes that differentiate the threads from each other:

Detailed Overview Of Various Novathreads Options

 

  • Smooth Threads – Used for skin rejuvenation, collagen stimulation, and firmness.
  • Barbed PDO Threads – Contain small barbs on them that, in addition to stimulating collagen production, allow for the skin to be pulled and lifted.
  • Twisted Threads – Add a small amount of volume and, therefore, work great on lip borders or as support for smaller wrinkles and lines.

In addition to the different shapes, threads also differ in diameters and lengths within each of those categories. The thicker the thread, the stronger it is and the longer its longevity.

What Is Recovery Like After NovaThreads?

Usually, people can go straight to work or social events. Minimal risks that are associated with any type of skin injections include bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort or pain.

Most of the threads come in a cannula form, which reduces the risk of bruising. While swelling is unlikely, you may experience discomfort for one to two weeks. Reduce movement in the area to help decrease pain and discomfort.

How Long Do Results Last?

NovaThreads may last up to six months. However, the collagen produced can last about two years! Results may be seen immediately following the procedure. While results are not permanent, the new collagen produced can last for many years. Some individuals experience gradual results, as each body is different.

How Should I Prepare For NovaThreads?

Not wearing makeup can help shorten the visit time. In addition, you should avoid any medications or foods that can thin blood for five days before the procedure. This includes alcohol, fish oils, NSAID pain medication (e.g. Advil, Aleve, and Aspirin), and vitamins and herbs (such as Ginkgo Biloba and Vitamin E). Other than these small steps there is no real preparation required for NovaThreads.

Diagram Showing The Insertion Of Novathreads During A Thread Lift Procedure In Skin Layers Including Epidermis, Dermis, And Subcutaneous Tissue.

 

How Much Does NovaThreads Cost?

The pricing can vary, but we usually charge about $30 for each smooth thread and $250 for each barbed thread. The cost greatly depends on the thread type and treatment area, as well as the desired results. Cost is something we can talk about at your consultation. Click here to schedule your consultation today!

Who Is a Good Candidate for NovaThreads?

Anyone who wants to decrease or prevent the loss of collagen or wishes to reduce signs of aging is a good candidate for NovaThreads. This procedure can help reduce wrinkles and create a natural lift. It is the perfect solution for the neck skin and lipstick and marionette lines.

Thread lifts provide some patients with an alternative to liquid facelift. This can be especially beneficial for older patients who may not be able to undergo typical surgery due to medical conditions or other complications.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for NovaThreads?

Certain conditions, such as a history of keloids, may increase the risk of complications with thread procedures. In addition, any patient who has low immunity or suffers from severe/multiple allergies may not be a good candidate for NovaThreads.

What Is the Difference Between NovaThreads and Fillers?

Fillers produce volume, and NovaThreads does not. This makes NovaThreads the ideal procedure for lips or neck areas where the volume could result in an undesirable appearance.

What Is the Difference Between NovaThreads and Botox?

Botox helps relax muscles and does not allow them to contract. As a result, the skin lying on top does not crinkle. Therefore, it prevents wrinkles from occurring. NovaThreads creates firmness and helps stimulate collagen. It is a natural way to rejuvenate the skin.

What Are Thread Lift Sutures Made Of?

NovaThreads is made from a material called PDO (Polydioxanone). PDO is able to be fully absorbed by the body over time.

Are Thread Lifts FDA-Cleared?

Threads are FDA-approved for suturing and are currently being evaluated for FDA approval for lifting.

What Can Thread Lifts Do to Improve My Appearance?

Threads can be one of the many modalities that can increase collagen in the skin so that our skin doesn’t get as droopy with time. In return, the aging process will slow down. They can also directly act as entities that increase the tensile strength/firmness in the skin. NovaThreads lifts the skin that has drooped in smile lines, marionette lines, neck areas, and many other areas in the body.

How Is a Thread Lift Procedure Performed?

The insertion site is numbed with lidocaine. Then, the loaded needle is inserted under the skin and immediately removed. The thread automatically dislodges as the needle pulls back. This is all that needs to happen for procedures using smooth threads.

For barbed threads, the threads are pulled and cut in a lifted position. This noninvasive procedure takes around 20 minutes. The lidocaine helps keep you comfortable while threads are placed.

Can the Threads Be Removed?

Threads can be removed. However, the process is very difficult and maybe unsuccessful.

What Happens When the Threads Get Absorbed?

The body can break down suture threads through enzymes. This occurs for over six months. Collagen is left behind and continues to have beneficial results for patients.

Is General Anesthesia Required?

NovaThreads does not require general anesthesia. A local numbing medication called lidocaine is used to keep you comfortable during thread placement. At Cosmetic Injectables Center, we also have the option of laughing gas which makes the process a lot more comfortable. The analgesic effects dissipate quickly enough after the procedure that driving is allowed and is safe. We also have ice, numbing creams, and other gadgets that make the procedure comfortable even for those that are very sensitive. For patients that are anxiety-prone, an anxiolytic such as Ativan is also acceptable.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Patients may experience immediate results. However, rejuvenation of the skin (increased firmness and a reduction in wrinkles) may take some time. The maximum result of collagen stimulation is usually about 6 months after the procedure. When combined with fillers and Botox, results from those procedures can be seen immediately and at about 10-14 days respectively.

What are the Pros and Cons of NovaThreads?

Pros

  • Threads only take about a minute to place, so it is a quick procedure.
  • Threads will dissolve over time so there is little to no risk involved.
  • A great alternative to facelift surgery, as it is noninvasive.

Cons

  • Cannot achieve permanent results like facelift surgery can.
  • You get a boost in collagen but it does not care for excess skin or tighten muscles.
  • If complications with the threads occur then you will have to wait for the threads to dissolve.

Can I Combine NovaThreads and fillers?

Combining NovaThreads with fillers is a fantastic idea. Fillers will restore volume that is lost as we age. The threads will work synergistically and amplify the “Liquid Face Lift” effect that facial fillers provide.

Will PDO Threads Show Through My Skin?

No! Threads will not show through the skin. This minimally invasive procedure is a great alternative to a traditional facelift, as it is less expensive and comes with little to no recovery time. Over time, the threads will dissolve and will promote the growth of collagen in their place. Having a consultation with Dr. Soleiman will answer all the questions you may have about threads.

What Should You Not Do After A Thread Lift?

It will highly depend on the area of treatment. You will want to refrain from washing, wetting or touching your face or the area that was treated for at least 12 hours after the procedure. Once you do begin your normal showering routine, take care to be gentle with the treatment areas. You will not want to massage or scrub with a cloth for about 3 weeks after NovaThreads.

Limit your facial movements for at least the first 24 hours. In addition, you will want to avoid facial creams and makeup for up to 48 hours. It will help to keep your head elevated at a 45-degree angle for 5 to 7 days.

What Can I Eat After My Procedure?

There really are not too many restrictions. You need to listen to your body and also try to refrain from vigorously moving the treated area for the first 24 hours. With that said, it is a good idea to keep to soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing. This is recommended for the first week. It will give your threads time to work their magic and cut down on any discomfort that you may experience. You will also want to avoid drinking from a straw for the first 7 to 10 days.

When Can I Resume My Regular Skin Cae Routine?

After 48 hours you can gently resume a basic washing, drying, and skincare routine. Keep in mind that you will want to avoid any type of scrubbing, tugging or exfoliating for the first 7 to 10 days. You will also want to consult your cosmetic physician before using any prescription-strength creams or topical medications.

Can You Feel PDO Threads?

You may be able to slightly feel the threads, but it will highly depend on the thickness of your skin. The area will be tightened, so this may be the sensation that you will feel. However, threads do dissolve and this tight feeling should not be uncomfortable.

How Often Can You Do PDO Threads?

The PDO threads will dissolve after about 6 months. Most of our clients are happy with the results that they receive in just one treatment. However, you can come in after 6 to 9 months for a follow-up and see if another treatment is recommended for desired results. Most clients see results for up to 2 years after their NovaThread procedure.

Which Treatments Complement a PDO Thread Lift Best?

It will all depend on the type of results you are looking for, and which areas are being treated. If you have concerns about lines and wrinkles that are increased with facial movements, then neuromodulators would be a good combination with PDO threads. If you have lines and wrinkles that are static, then you may want to opt for dermal fillers. A consultation with Dr. Soleiman will help determine what treatment is best for you!

Check out our blog to learn more about jawline fillers.

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