Evaluation of Elastic Lift for Facial Rejuvenation

Facial aging is the progression of three processes: skin and soft tissue laxity, superficial skin changes, and volume loss [1-5]. Understanding these processes is essential when intending to achieve natural results for the aging face. Since Mitz and Peyronie [6] defined the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), facial rejuvenation techniques have evolved from subcutaneous rhytidectomy to soft tissue repositioning and SAMS lift [7]. However, these invasive facelifts are elaborate and complicated procedures that require a long recovery time [8,9]. The use of barbed sutures to lift various ptotic areas of the face can be a good alternative for more invasive procedures [8,10-13]. The thread lift shows satisfactory results with minimal scarring, rapid recovery, and minimal complications [11-13]. Nevertheless, complications of thread lift have been reported, including facial asymmetry, recurrence, and the relative lack of efficacy [14]. In this study, we analyzed a new type of thread lift: elastic lift that uses elastic thread (Elasticum, Korpo SRL, Genova, Italy). The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes and safety associated with elastic lift in relation to midface and upper mandibular region lifting.