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A PDO Thread Lift is a minimally invasive procedure which works by stimulating the production of collagen in the skin in order to produce healthier, firmer skin. The treatment uses absorbable, barbed sutures to offer a tighter, more youthful aesthetic appearance to the face and neck.
The thread lift results in a lifting of the jawline, jowls and chin back up close to the bone, reversing signs of drooping. The thread lift creates a much more youthful-looking facial profile without the need for invasive surgery.
Patient photographs before and after Thread-Lift treatment.
Changes occur over time to the shape of the face due to ageing. The combination of Active and Passive Threads will create the best results for a non-surgical face-lift with minimal downtime. The procedure leaves no scars and can be successfully used to lift the mid-face, jawline, brows and neck areas.
This procedure uses Active Threads to lift and reposition sagging skin and the Passive Threads contour and define the face. Combined Thread-lifts should only be carried out by a doctor who has Combined Thread- lift training. This procedure has recently been regulated by CQC in the UK mainland.
You might experience:
You will be able to see results almost as soon as you leave the clinic however, it is important to keep in mind that it takes 10-14 days for collagen to start working. You will start to see the effects it is having on the appearance of your skin after 4 weeks’ post treatment.
Thread Lift treatment is virtually pain-free. Threads are loaded in very fine and extremely sharp needles, making implantation virtually painless. Only a topical anaesthetic or local anaesthetic is required depending on the threads used.
There is potential for bruising and slight swelling. Redness of the treated area can last up to 24 hours. You can continue with daily life immediately.
Thread Lift treatment makes it possible to regenerate and firm the skin naturally, without changing your features or facial expression. You’re still you… just younger-looking and revitalised!
The number of threads required will depend on the patient’s characteristics and the areas to be treated. Obtaining a regenerative effect that brightens skin and improves texture requires many threads. But your Doctor is the one to decide. Ask him or her for advice.
There can be some immediate results seen. Thread Lift treatment repositions sagging skin, providing a more youthful appearance. At that point, its regenerative action kicks in, increasing oxygen supply to the cells and stimulating collagen and elastin production. After a month or two, skin will be younger, firmer and brighter looking.
Catching up with Alex, 24 hours after her treatment, I would not have been aware that she had been through a procedure at all – she was in good spirits and looking as fresh and glamorous as she always does. She emphasised the lack of downtime needed with this treatment. “There is no anaesthetic required, the only thing used was some numbing cream. It was just like going for anti-wrinkle injections, you could even go back to work after! I woke up this morning with no bruising, just totally back to normal.”
Alex has been in the public eye for 20+ years, starting her career in modelling and later becoming an author and TV personality. As a woman in the media she feels like it
is only natural to be under pressure to look good. “There is a bit more pressure because people are so quick to comment on your appearance when they see pictures in magazines. However, even if I wasn’t in the public eye, I have always been someone who takes pride in their appearance.
“I feel like men don’t have to think about these things, they just jump in the shower and moan about having to shave, whereas women have to think about waxing, getting our hair done, nails, tan…the list goes on.” With the scrutiny to look good and ‘age well’ it can be easy to turn to surgery but sometimes going under the knife isn’t necessary to gain a more youthful look. Alex agrees with this: “I wouldn’t be keen on doing anything that involves major surgery, but I don’t mind having a few little tweaks here and there now that I am closer to 50 than 40. Nothing invasive, just something to give a little bit of help along the way.”
With this in mind, the PDO Thread-Lift seemed like the perfect option for Alex, a non-surgical facelift, with zero downtime. So how does it work?
“They inject in threads, similar to getting stitches. I had mine focused around the jawline and cheekbones. They are bio- degradable, just like the surgical stitches that are used in cardiac surgery, they stimulate your own collagen production for up to 8 months before they dissolve, treatment results last from 12-18 months before they disappear, this thickens and tightens the skin.”
With the session only lasting 30-60 minutes, you could be mistaken that it would take a bit of time to develop but this was not the case according to Alex. “I noticed the difference straight away. It looks like I have a jawline now. It doesn’t look overly drastic, like I have had my eyes pulled back, which can be the case with surgical facelifts – it just gives my face more definition. I am absolutely thrilled with the results!”
Alex was also thrilled with the quality of service and attention to detail that she received at Cosmetech. “The team were absolutely amazing and the premises they have at their Holywood branch is great! They offer a wide range of treatments such as Anti-Wrinkle Injections, Dermal Fillers and Mole Removal. My consultant, Mr Gerard Smith is a Consultant Maxillofacial (head, face and neck) Surgeon with a specialist interest in non-surgical treatments. He is fully trained to offer this treatment and I felt like I was in safe hands with him. Thread-lifts should only be performed by a trained doctor in a clinical environment, recently this procedure has been regulated by the CQC (Care Quality Commission) in the UK mainland so it’s very important to be careful where you go for Thread-lifts.
Alex had previously lived in Portavogie with her late husband George Best and takes every opportunity to return to Northern Ireland to visit friends.
“I usually try and get over to Northern Ireland at least twice a year – I love coming back! Every time I come back, I feel like it has changed for the better. Places like Belfast have a real buzz about them, and it is great to see places like Cosmetech, where there is a branch in both Belfast and Holywood.”
With Northern Ireland holding a place in her heart, it isn’t just the people that she loves here, it is also the food. “The food is absolutely amazing here! Wheaten bread is my favourite, and they have actually started selling it in my local supermarket back home, thanks to Paul Rankin’s brand of wheaten and soda bread being available here now. I also love the fresh seafood. In London it is overpriced, and the food is not half as good in quality as it is over here. When George and I lived here we used to think living in London seemed like a rip off in comparison.”
At the time of our conversation it was the recent anniversary of her late husband’s death, 14 years have gone in so quickly since the legendary George Best’s passing.
“The anniversary is always a sad day, but with every year it gets a bit easier. Thinking back to his funeral he would have been so pleased with the turnout of fans and friends who lined the streets for him.”
George’s legacy lives on in Northern Ireland notably in the Belfast City Airport named in his honour.
“He would be so chuffed that the airport was named after him. He was thrilled
when it was first built, as he had to fly over to film for Sky Sports each weekend, so the Belfast City Airport was a lot more convenient when it came along.”
After our chat, Alex was catching a flight back to her home in Surrey. She couldn’t wait to attend events and parties now, to have the opportunity to get glammed up and make the most of her newly rejuvenated skin. But she also loves nothing more than chilling out at home with her beautiful red setter.
“As much as I love taking pride in my appearance, I equally love being at home in my jeans or tracksuit with no makeup on and taking my dog on lots of walks.”
Patient Testimonials
"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Cosmetech at Kingsbridge Patient
"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient
"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Hospital spotless and clean. Staff were so caring couldn’t do enough for me and made sure I was comfortable. Give the place 10 out of 10. Had surgery yesterday and treatment was first class" Ms Demirtas, Kingsbridge Patient
"Their service was excellent and convenient location!" Ms Kneale, Kingsbridge Patient
"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient
"Had eye surgery here twice for cataracts and lens replacement. Super smooth service from start to finish. Very happy" Ms Jones, Kingsbridge Patient
"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient
"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient
"Great friendly staff the nurses go way and beyond. The hospital is spotless, and the service is second to none." Ms Croke, Kingsbridge Patient
"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient
"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy. He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient
"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient
"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off. Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently had my gall bladder removed. All of the staff I had to deal with were excellent and professional. It was the best treatment I have ever received." Ms Burrows, Kingsbridge Patient
"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient
"The service and staff are first class. Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back. You are all a credit to your profession. Excellent service and I would highly recommend you. Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient
"Amazing 5-star hospital. Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation. I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient
"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient
"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.
Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient
"Very well satisfied with everyone at my appointment - firstly with reception who were very friendly and helpful, secondly with Mr Cusick who took his time to explain everything to me and finally One2One with Rose who organised the dates for my pre op and operation. I would highly recommend Kingsbridge Private Hospital." Patient Review, Orthopaedic Clinic
"When I attended Kingsbridge Private Hospital on the 14th May for a knee replacement the care I got was fantastic from entering the door until I was discharged on the 16th May. The surgeon Mr Laurence Cusick and his team was absolutely fantastic, the nurses and the rest of the team you couldn’t ask for better and the food was very good" Paitent Review , Knee Replacement Clinic
"My first knee replacement was October 2023, and this was done the manual way. The pre and post op was fantastic for both! There was almost no pain in my hip or rest of my body after the second surgery which was a huge difference compared to my first knee. I was able to continue my physio as normal and I noticed I had more movement a lot sooner with my second knee, the robotic assisted. I could not thank the staff enough and Mr McCaffrey for how kind and understanding, attentive they were. From the beginning, I felt heard, and understood. The nurses, the caterers, the physios, the doctors, pharmacists, it is top class care! Overall, in summary, I would highly recommend going for robotic assisted. It’s still a serious surgery, so pain is to be expected and recovery is not going to be rosy, but it is worth it. The relief I have now in both knees, walking without that bone-on-bone pain, I am grateful. And the robotic assisted was a noticeably less painful, faster recovery. " Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement , Kingsbridge Hospital North West Patient
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