Overview

FDA Approved Procedure

Dr. DeConti is pleased to introduce a minimally invasive rejuvenation technique for the face – The Silhouette InstaLift; they are the only non-absorbable, micro coned suture product cleared by the FDA for the elevation and fixation of cheeks, brow and neck areas.

Made From Clear Polypropylene

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, and contain micro cones that are absorbable and anchor the soft tissue providing an internal effect of traction that produces a natural facelift. Dr. DeConti was the first board-certified plastic surgeon certified in this procedure in the Richmond and Central Virginia area.

Why Opt For Silhouette InstaLift

Aging Leads to Sagging, Fold, and Wrinkles

As the aging process begins, the skin’s connective tissue thins and collagen and elastin 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.

Silhouette Suture Thread Lift For Facial Rejuvenation

A Silhouette Suture Thread Lift 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 facelift; rather it offers patients an innovative, minimally invasive approach with immediate results.

Best Candidates for Silhouette InstaLift

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas can be treated?

The Silhouette InstaLift Sutures are used for:

Repositioning sagging cheeks
Lifting sagging eyebrows
Improving neck and jaw lines

What are “Micro coned” sutures?

Unlike conventional sutures that are smooth, Silhouette InstaLift sutures have clear, bioabsorbable micro cones overlying small knots. Once the cones are completely absorbed, the tissue growth around the small knots allows for continued tissue suspension.

How is the procedure performed?

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, jawline, neck or brow. The skin tissue is gently elevated onto the micro cones and the micro cones gently hold the tissue from moving. Once in position, your body absorbs the clear micro cones and new collagen forms around each small knot to maintain the lifting effect. The exact placement of the threads will vary from patient to patient.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation and in the office or the outpatient ambulatory surgery center. 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.

How long is the recovery?

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 one week.

How many treatments will I need?

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

How long do the results last?

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. Additional threads may be added at any time to refresh the result.

What are the possible side effects?

The Silhouette InstaLift procedure is a simple procedure to perform. Complications seldom occur. Bleeding and infection are very rare. Asymmetry can occur and can be corrected by re-elevating 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.

Can this procedure be combined with other cosmetic procedures?

It is not uncommon to have this procedure combined with 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 Silhouette InstaLift procedure.