Dr. DeConti is pleased to introduce a new era in minimally invasive rejuvenation techniques for the face – Feather Contour Thread™ Lifts . Contour Threads™ are the only non-absorbable barbed suture product cleared by the FDA for the elevation and fixation of cheeks, brow and neck areas. These specifically designed sutures are fashioned from clear polypropylene, a material that has been safely used in the body for many years in other medical products. Dr. DeConti is the first and only board certified plastic surgeon certified in this procedure in the Richmond and Central Virginia area.

As the aging process begins, the skin's connective tissue thins and collagen and elastic fibers begin to break down. As a result, these changes in underlying support structures appear as sagging, deep creases, folds and wrinkles in the skin. This can be seen as early as your thirties.

A lift performed with Contour Threads™ is a safe, conservative and effective procedure that offers subtle, natural looking results. By gently shifting sagging tissues in an upward direction, this technique allows the surgeon to produce a relaxed, fresh appearance while preserving and enhancing the natural contours of your face. This procedure does not replace a conventional face-lift; rather it offers patients an innovative, minimally invasive approach with immediate results.

---

In general, the best candidates for this procedure are men and women in their thirties through their sixties who may have sagging and drooping skin of the cheeks, forehead, eyebrows, and neck. They may have poorly defined cheek and jaw lines and little neck definition.

---

Contour Threads™ are used for:
• Repositioning sagging cheeks
• Lifting sagging eyebrows
• Improving neck and jaw lines

---

Unlike conventional sutures which are smooth, Contour Threads™ have tiny barbs or cogs, that are spaced evenly apart.

---

A tiny incision is made behind the hairline in a location depending on the area to be lifted. The threads are inserted under the skin along the previously marked contours toward the cheeks, jaw line, neck or brow. The skin tissue is gently elevated onto the cogs and the cogs gently hold the tissue from moving.

Once in position, your body generates new collagen bundles that surround each thread to maintain the lifting effect. The exact placement of the threads will vary from patient to patient. Unlike other thread products, Contour Threads™ are clear in color so they are not visible under fair or thin skin.

---

The procedure is quick and usually performed under local anesthesia and in the office. The actual length of time will depend on the number of threads used. A typical procedure usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes to perform.

---

In most cases, there is minimal discomfort, bruising and swelling. Ice compresses are recommended for the first 24-48 hours. Patients can usually return to work or normal activities in a few days to one week.

---

Usually only one procedure is needed to achieve the desired lifting effect.

---

Duration varies depending on the age of the patient at the time of the procedure, the degree of sagging, and the number of threads used. On average, the results last 3 to 5 years. Additional threads may be added any time to refresh the result.

---

The Contour Threads™ procedure is a simple procedure to perform. Complications seldom occur. Bleeding and infection are very rare. Asymmetry can occur and can be corrected by reelevating the tissue in the first few days or by adding more threads. Threads can also be removed if necessary. Unwanted effects are usually easily corrected under local anesthesia.

---

It is not uncommon to have this procedure combined with Botox® to reduce facial muscle activity, dermal fillers such as collagen, hyaluronic acid or fat to enhance volume, or peels and laser therapy to improve skin texture. Liposuction of the neck can also be done in conjunction with a Feather Lift procedure.

---

Absolutely. The unique design of Contour Threads™ allows a traditional facelift or browlift procedure when you are ready.