Thread Lift (PDO Thread Lift)

How It Works:
Special medical-grade threads (usually made of PDO - polydioxanone) are inserted under the skin using fine needles or cannulas. The threads have tiny barbs or cones that grip tissue and lift it upward. Over time, the threads dissolve naturally while stimulating collagen production for continued improvement.

Common Treatment Areas:
- Mid-face lift (cheeks, nasolabial folds)
- Jowl lift (jawline definition)
- Brow lift (eyebrow elevation)
- Neck lift (mild neck sagging)
- Marionette lines (corners of mouth)

Types of Threads:
- Barbed threads: Provide immediate lift
- Smooth threads: Stimulate collagen, improve texture
- Cog threads: Strongest lift for more sagging

Dr Maresky selects appropriate thread types and placement based on your specific concerns and facial anatomy.

Thread Lift (PDO Thread Lift) at Dr. Maresky's practice typically ranges from R15,000 to R45,000, depending on your specific needs and goals. Final pricing is always confirmed during your consultation, once Dr. Maresky has assessed your individual case.

Factors that influence the cost:

• Number of threads
• Areas treated
• Expected duration of results

The consultation is an independent clinical assessment. Final costs are confirmed before any treatment is scheduled.

Prices are indicative and quoted at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital. Subject to change. Medical aid contributions may apply for reconstructive or medically indicated cases.

Duration: 30-60 minutes depending on areas treated

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with or without mild sedation

Procedure Steps

1. Consultation: Dr Maresky marks treatment areas and thread placement
2. Cleansing: Skin is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected
3. Anesthesia: Local anesthetic injected at entry and exit points
4. Thread insertion: Fine needles or cannulas are used to insert threads under skin in predetermined pattern
5. Lifting: Threads are gently pulled to lift tissue, then secured
6. Trimming: Excess thread is trimmed and entry points closed
7. Assessment: Dr Maresky evaluates symmetry and lift
8. Post-treatment care: Ice applied, aftercare instructions provided

Recovery Timeline

Immediately after:

Mild swelling, bruising, sensation of tightness

24-48 hours:

Swelling and bruising peak

3 months:

Collagen production continues and the treatment effect settles

Post-Operative Restrictions

First 24 Hours

• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling
• Sleep elevated (45-degree angle)
• No touching or massaging treated areas
• Avoid excessive facial expressions
• Soft diet (avoid excessive chewing)
• No makeup

First 2 Weeks

• No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting
• Avoid sleeping on side or stomach (sleep on back)
• No facial massage, facials, or dental work
• Avoid excessive heat (saunas, hot yoga)
• No alcohol consumption
• Gentle skincare only
• Avoid opening mouth wide (yawning, dental work)

2-4weeks

• Gradually resume normal activities
• Avoid aggressive facial treatments
• Continue sleeping on back if possible

Long Term

• Maintain results with good skincare
• Protect skin from sun damage
• Consider maintenance treatments

Pain Management: Minimal discomfort during procedure (local anesthesia used). Mild soreness, tightness, or pulling sensation for 3-5 days after, managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Scarring: No visible scarring - entry points are tiny (needle-sized) and heal without marks.

Immediate lift: Visible immediately (though masked by swelling)
Initial results: 1-2 weeks (after swelling resolves)
Treatment settling: 2-3 months (as collagen production increases)
Duration: 12-18 months (varies by individual, thread type, and lifestyle)