Editor’s Note: Dr. Michael P. Ogilvie chats with us about Silhouette InstaLift, a procedure that is minimally invasive and can produce great results!

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What is Silhouette InstaLift and what does it do?

Silhouette InstaLift is a form of thread lifting to the face, where dissolvable threads are placed underneath the skin through tiny access points to help improve facial ptosis or droop. While this does not have dramatic surgical results like a facelift, it is a non-surgical and minimally invasive technique which promotes significant improvement, which has been shown to last 2-3 years.

Do you prefer it to other methods? Why?

I do prefer it to other methods, namely traditional thread lifting. Previously, thread lifting used permanent, barbed sutures with sharp edges to lift the undersurface of the skin i.e. the dermis. This had disastrous results. Silhouette InstaLift uses a non-permanent suture with cones and knots (no sharp edges) to lift the skin by grabbing the retaining ligaments of the face that connect the skin to the underlying muscle. This is a much safer and effective way to improve facial sag.

Who is a good candidate for this procedure?

Anyone with mild to moderate facial skin ptosis, who has relatively healthy skin and is not looking for a dramatic surgical result but wants to improve their overall appearance without the recovery time or risk of surgery.

How does this procedure work?

In just a 45-60 min procedure using just local anesthesia in the office, the suture is passed underneath the skin through very small access points in the face. The skin is then gently manipulated over the suture to help lift it and keep it in place. There is very minimal downtime and very few post-procedure instructions to follow. Over a year the suture dissolves leaving behind collagen/scar to keep the skin uplifted, which lasts for 2-3 years. Repeat procedures can be done without significant risk if need be.

What does recovery look like for Silhouette InstaLift?

Recovery is very tolerable and well received. Downtime is typically 24-48 hours as the access point heal and there is a very small risk of swelling or bruising. Large facial movements and heavy gym activity are discouraged for 3-5 days as this may cause the sutures to release. Noticeable results are immediate and continually improve up to 3 months with lasting results for up to 3 years before recurrent ptosis may appear.

For more on Dr. Ogilvie, visit his profile on Haute Beauty.