Face Stitch Lift

What is a stitch lift?

The "stitch lift" has many different names. It is a minimally invasive procedure using a specially made long stitch thread to:-

1. Lift, shift and reposition sagging facial tissue in an upward direction restoring a youthful look.
2. Produce a fresh appearance while preserving and enhancing the natural contours of the face.

Can it be performed instead of a facelift?

It does not replace a facelift. A stitch lift is used in people who want a "minor lift" and do not have major sagging of the face. A stitch lift only marginally achieves what a facelift can do. A stitch lift can also be used in ladies and men who already have had a facelift to tidy up or lift some residual droopy tissue. A stitch lift works better if there is less facial sagging and little wrinkles.

Are there any visible scars?

There are no visible scars as no facial skin is cut away.

How long does it last?

Reports indicate that effects last up to three to five years and vary from individual to individual. The better the scaffolding and anchoring used with the stitch the better the support of the lifted tissue. Studies show that the results improve with time (three to six months) as collagen contracts around the stitches.

When are stitch lifts performed?

Stitch lifts may be an option when one feels their face or brow line has sagged enough that that it make them appear older than what they actually feel. Suitable candidates are those seeking a fresher appearance, but do not want conventional cosmetic surgery with the visible scars.

Does it require an anaesthetic?

Stitch lifts are performed under local anaesthesia, with or without twilight sedation, however, there is a need for someone to accompany you when you leave to go home.

Is there pain and is a hospital stay required?

There is some discomfort where the stitch has been anchored underneath the skin. This settles with oral pain tablets and ice packs. Stitch lifts are performed as a day procedure and there is need to stay at the hospital.

After the procedure, how does one look?

Directly after the procedure there is bunching and puckering of skin in front of the ear lobe or above the direction of shift and lift. This is normal and settles with time. Bruising and swelling may occur, but settles with the use of ice packs. People may return to work after a few days to a week.

Is the procedure reversible?

The procedure is entirely reversible. Unwanted effects are easily corrected. If the positioning requires adjusting it can be corrected under local anaesthetic or more stitches can be used to elevate the tissue.

Can it be combined with other procedures?

Stitch lift is commonly performed with many other treatments such as Botox, wrinkle fillers and even facelifts.