Tensor threads have already made quite a name for themselves, but the real revolution lies in the quality of these new threads. Made from a well-known bio-absorbable material (PDO or polydioxanone), they are shaped in 3D (Spiral Blunt Cog by MESOTRAX) with microscopic bidirectional cogs (barbs), which self-anchor the skin tissues for a more effective lifting effect. The threads are inserted using a cannula, which is more straightforward and causes less damage to the skin than the previous generation of threads, as the cannula is only inserted once as opposed to several times.
How the treatment is carried out: I analyse the areas to be lifted with the patient. These might include the cheek, the cheekbone or the eyebrow. My approach is surgical and, as such, the environment, preparations and equipment used should be of operating-theatre standard. After disinfecting the skin, I introduce a little local anaesthetic into the scalp behind the ear, which is where I subsequently insert the tensor threads using a cannula. I pull gently on each thread in order to achieve the exact lifting effect desired, and I finish off by cutting the protruding end of the thread. I place an average of 4 to 8 threads per side. The effect is immediate and can be seen in less than 30 minutes.
There is no scarring or stitches. The after-effects are minimal, just slight bruising.
When I treat a patient whose skin is very damaged (photo aging, dryness, extreme thinning, etc.) I thicken the dermis by tissue induction so as to increase the effectiveness of the tensor threads. Two months before, I insert PDO mono filaments (up to 40 per side) to create a solid dermal mesh and Super Spring threads (very tightly-coiled threads) which have a visible firming effect while causing a surge in collagen and elastin production thanks to the higher length of thread/length of needle ratio. This also achieves a very pleasing volumising effect.
This non-invasive method, which is almost pain-free, requires no downtime and has proven efficacy, is proof that anti-aging can fulfil the patients’ expectations of a rejuvenated face without significant tissue damage.
The effects last in excess of 18 months, and are maintained with a yearly session of targeted ultrasound. This technique is already used on the rest of the body (abdomen, arms, thighs, etc.) with promising results.
