Thread Lift Guide: Aptos vs InstaLift for Non-Surgical Face Lifting

As we age, the effects of gravity, collagen loss, and fat pad descent create visible sagging in the mid-face, jowls, and neck. While surgical facelifts remain the gold standard for significant laxity, thread lifts have emerged as a powerful minimally invasive alternative that offers real lifting with far less downtime. At RAAC Richmond, we specialize in advanced thread lifting techniques using both Aptos and InstaLift (Silhouette Soft) systems.

What Is a Thread Lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure where biocompatible, dissolvable threads are inserted beneath the skin using fine needles or cannulas. These threads have tiny cones, barbs, or hooks that grip the tissue and physically lift it into a more youthful position. Over the following months, the threads also stimulate your body's natural collagen production, creating a secondary tightening effect that continues even after the threads dissolve.

How Thread Lifts Work — The Dual Mechanism:

1. Immediate mechanical lift: Barbed or coned threads physically reposition sagging tissue upward
2. Delayed collagen stimulation: The foreign body response to the thread material triggers new collagen and elastin formation around the threads, providing sustained tightening for months after insertion

Thread Types: PDO vs PLLA

PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads

• Material: Same suture material used in cardiac surgery for decades
• Dissolve in: 6–8 months
• Collagen stimulation: Continues for approximately 12–18 months after insertion
• Varieties: Smooth (mono), twisted, barbed (COG), mesh
• Used in: Many thread lift systems including various Aptos configurations

PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) Threads

• Material: Same biocompatible polymer used in Sculptra
• Dissolve in: 12–18 months
• Collagen stimulation: Continues for up to 24 months
• Used in: Silhouette InstaLift system with bi-directional cones
• Advantage: Longer-lasting support and more robust collagen stimulation

Aptos Thread Lift

What Makes Aptos Unique?

The Aptos thread system, developed by Dr. Marlen Sulamanidze in Georgia (the country), is one of the pioneering thread lift technologies. Aptos offers a wide range of thread configurations:

• Aptos Nano: Ultra-fine threads for subtle skin rejuvenation and pore tightening
• Aptos Excellence Visage: Barbed threads for mid-face and jowl lifting
• Aptos Light Lift Thread: For moderate lifting with minimal downtime
• Aptos Body threads: Designed for body areas (arms, thighs, abdomen)

Aptos Procedure at RAAC:

1. Assessment: Facial analysis to determine optimal thread placement vectors
2. Marking: Precise entry and exit points are mapped on the skin
3. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia at entry points; optional mild sedation
4. Insertion: Threads are introduced via thin needles along predetermined paths
5. Adjustment: Threads are gently tensioned to achieve optimal lift
6. Duration: 45–90 minutes depending on areas treated

Aptos Results:

• Immediate lift: Visible improvement right after the procedure
• Peak results: 2–3 months (as collagen builds around threads)
• Duration: 12–24 months depending on thread type and patient factors
• Touch-ups: Additional threads can be placed to extend or enhance results

InstaLift (Silhouette Soft) Thread Lift

What Makes InstaLift Unique?

Silhouette InstaLift uses a proprietary PLLA thread with bi-directional absorbable cones rather than barbs. These cones provide:

• Superior grip: Cones anchor more securely than barbs, allowing for greater lift
• 360-degree fixation: Unlike barbs that grip in one direction, cones provide multi-directional anchoring
• Enhanced collagen response: PLLA material is a proven collagen stimulator (same as Sculptra)
• Smoother results: Cones create less tissue trauma than barbs

InstaLift Procedure at RAAC:

1. Consultation: Detailed assessment of facial anatomy and laxity
2. Custom planning: Thread vectors designed to address your specific areas of concern
3. Local anesthesia: Numbing at entry points ensures comfort
4. Thread insertion: PLLA threads with cones are placed subdermally using a guided needle
5. Molding: Gentle compression shapes the lifted tissue into the desired position
6. Duration: 30–60 minutes

InstaLift Results:

• Immediate lift: Noticeable improvement on the treatment table
• Progressive improvement: Collagen remodeling enhances results over 3–6 months
• Duration: 18–24 months (longer than most PDO threads due to PLLA material)
• Natural appearance: Subtle, natural-looking lift without the "pulled" look

Aptos vs InstaLift: Head-to-Head Comparison

Thread Lift vs Dermal Fillers vs Surgical Facelift

Patients often ask how thread lifts compare to other lifting options. Here's an honest comparison:

When to Choose Each:

• Thread lift: You have mild to moderate sagging, want a noticeable lift without surgery, and accept results lasting 1–2 years
• Dermal fillers: Your concern is primarily volume loss (hollow cheeks, deep folds) rather than skin laxity
• Surgery: You have significant laxity, excess skin, and want long-lasting (5–10+ year) results
• Combination: Many patients at RAAC combine threads with fillers, Thermage, or Ultherapy for comprehensive facial rejuvenation

Thread Lift Cost in Richmond BC

At RAAC Richmond, thread lift pricing depends on the system used, number of threads, and areas treated:

A complimentary consultation includes a customized treatment plan with transparent pricing.

Who Is an Ideal Thread Lift Candidate?

Best Candidates:

• Ages 35–65 with mild to moderate facial sagging
• Good skin quality and reasonable elasticity
• Realistic expectations (thread lifts enhance, not replace, surgical results)
• Patients who cannot or do not want surgical downtime
• Those looking to extend the results of previous surgical facelifts

Less Ideal Candidates:

• Significant skin laxity (consider surgery)
• Very thin skin with poor elasticity
• Active skin infections or autoimmune conditions affecting the face
• Heavy smokers (impaired collagen production)
• Patients expecting surgical-level results from a non-surgical procedure

Recovery and Aftercare

• Day 1–3: Mild swelling, tenderness; sleep on your back with head elevated
• Week 1: Avoid extreme facial expressions; no dental work; soft diet recommended
• Week 2: Most patients return to full normal activity
• Month 1: Avoid high-impact exercise, facial massage, and professional facial treatments
• Ongoing: Protect results with good skincare, SPF, and consider skin tightening maintenance

Why Choose RAAC for Thread Lifts?

• Dual-system expertise: We offer both Aptos and InstaLift, selecting the best system for your anatomy
• Physician-performed: All thread lift procedures are performed by experienced medical professionals
• Combination approach: We integrate threads with fillers, neuromodulators, and energy devices for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
• Honest recommendations: If a thread lift isn't right for you, we'll tell you what is

Book Your Thread Lift Consultation

Interested in a non-surgical face lift in Richmond? Book a complimentary consultation at RAAC and discover whether a thread lift can achieve your rejuvenation goals.

RAAC Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic: 5811 Cooney Road, Suite 305, Richmond BC V6X 3M1. Serving Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, and Metro Vancouver.