This is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure to lift and tighten sagging skin tissues and to improve facial contours, using bio-absorbable, bio-compatible and bio-degradable filament threads. These are threads used by surgeons to suture the skin. COG thread lift is a unique treatment which stimulates the production of collagen in the skin leading to a ‘Lift’ effect. Here the thread is looped into a fine needle or canula of varying lengths and thicknesses. Hence, the needle or canula acts as a medium through which the thread is inserted into the skin.
The PDO (polydioxanone) threads are of very high tensile strength, pliable and have smooth tissue passage. It is degraded in the body in maximum 210 days by hydrolysis and excreted through the faeces and urine. It is non-antigenic and therefore gives a minimal tissue reaction. As long as adequate aseptic precautions are maintained, there is no risk of bacterial colonisation. Once inserted into the skin, these threads anchor to the facial tissues and stimulate the fibroblasts, which thereby results in collagen production. This together with the increased blood flow brings about skin rejuvenation with a lifting effect. This effect is not instantaneous but takes place over a period of one to three months.
There are uni-directional and bi-directional COG threads available of varying thicknesses and lengths. The appropriate COG thread can be chosen based on the area to be treated and the desired effect.
This is a minimally invasive, fast and easy procedure. One can resume normal activities immediately after treatment and can wash the face after six hours.
The biggest pluses are no tell-tale signs and extremely small incisions — with minimal risk of bleeding and minimal down time. Results can last for upto two years if the procedure is repeated twice or thrice. Duration of treatment is 30 to 40 minutes; pricing varies from '3,000-4,000 per thread on the type of thread.
Post treatment, avoid excessive heat such as steam, sauna, hot showers or hot sun. This may cause the blood vessels to dilate and cause bleeding or bruising. Avoid pressure on the treated area for three to four days.
Tips: Avoid facials / face massage/ dental treatment for three to four days.
Avoid direct exposure to sunlight for prolonged period for two days.
Cold compress may be done to reduce the redness and swelling, if any.
The writer is a Bengaluru-based Dermatologist.
