Search Results (23)

Facial aging is a multifactorial and stratified biological process characterized by progressive morphological and biochemical alterations affecting both cutaneous (Layer I) and subcutaneous (Layer II) tissues. These age-related changes manifest clinically as volume depletion, tissue ptosis, and a decline in overall skin quality. In response to these phenomena, thread lifting techniques have evolved significantly—from simple mechanical suspension methods to sophisticated bioactive platforms. Contemporary threads now incorporate biocompatible polymers and hyaluronic acid (HA), aiming not only to reposition soft tissues but also to promote dermal regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive classification and critical assessment of thread lifting materials, focusing on their chemical composition, mechanical performance, degradation kinetics, and biostimulatory potential. Particular emphasis has been given to the surface integration of HA into monofilament threads, especially with the emergence of advanced delivery systems such as NAMICA, which facilitate sustained HA release. Advanced thread materials, especially those fabricated from poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) [P(LA/CL)], demonstrate both tensile support and regenerative efficacy. Emerging HA-covered threads exhibit synergistic bioactivity, stimulating skin remodeling. NAMICA technology represents an advancement in the field, in which HA is encapsulated within biodegradable polymer fibers to enable gradual release and enhanced dermal integration. Nonetheless, well-designed human studies are still needed to substantiate its therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, the paradigm of thread lifting is shifting from purely mechanical interventions toward biologically active systems that promote comprehensive ECM regeneration. The integration of HA into resorbable threads, especially when combined with sustained-release technologies, represents a meaningful innovation in aesthetic dermatology, meriting further preclinical and clinical evaluation. Full article

Breast thread lifting is a minimally invasive technique for correcting mild to moderate ptosis, offering aesthetic enhancement with reduced morbidity compared to traditional mastopexy. This review examines the anatomical underpinnings, clinical indications, technical nuances and limitations of breast thread lifting. The breast’s fascial architecture, particularly the role of Cooper’s ligaments and the retromammary space, critically influences thread trajectory and vector planning. Classification systems assist in proper patient selection, highlighting the suitability of thread lifts for Grades I–II ptosis with minimal skin excess. Advances in ultrasonography have improved preoperative planning, thread placement accuracy and postoperative monitoring. Various thread types, including PDO, PLLA, PCL and Silhouette Soft, offer different lifting capacities and collagen-stimulatory properties, necessitating tailored material selection. Although thread lifts offer immediate improvements, their transient nature necessitates careful patient counseling to manage expectations regarding durability and potential maintenance sessions. Innovative techniques, including clavicular anchoring and multi-level subdermal scaffolding, have expanded the procedural repertoire. Despite certain limitations, breast thread lifting remains a valuable tool within the aesthetic surgeon’s armamentarium, particularly for patients seeking minimally invasive options with shortened recovery periods and favorable psychosocial outcomes. Future developments are expected to further enhance safety, reproducibility and long-term results. Full article

Background: Skin photoaging caused by ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation leads to the formation of wrinkles. A method to lessen wrinkles is the application of Polydioxanone (PDO) lifting threads. HanDam (Twist) is a PDO lifting thread with a unique morphological twisted shape. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the wrinkle improvement ability of HanDam (Twist) on UV-B irradiation-induced skin photoaging in a hairless mouse model. Methods: Wrinkles were induced by UV-B irradiation to the backs of female hairless mice for six weeks. After induction, the wrinkles were treated with threads, and the mice were monitored for six weeks post-treatment. Results: Our results showed that treatment with HanDam (Twist) effectively ameliorated UV-B irradiation-induced wrinkle depth and significantly increased collagen density by 13% compared to HanDam (non-Twist) in the histological analysis. In measuring protein expression related to collagen production, HanDam (Twist) significantly increased transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and collagen type 1 (COL1) by 46% and 67% compared to HanDam (non-Twist). Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) protein expression showed similar density and no significance compared to HanDam (non-Twist). Conclusions: These findings suggest that HanDam (Twist) improves the effectiveness of lifting threads for skin care compared to that of existing products. Full article

Hyaluronic acid (HA), an integral non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan, plays a pivotal role in numerous biological functions within the extracellular matrix, crucially influencing tissue hydration and cellular activities. These findings position it as a key substance in both aesthetic interventions and regenerative medicine. This study evaluated the skin remodeling efficacy of poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (P(LA/CL)) threads embedded with HA particles at both the microscale (P(LA/CL)-HA-micro) and nanoscale (P(LA/CL)-HA-nano) utilizing NAMICA encapsulation technology. This investigation was conducted over a six-month period in an animal model. These threads were engineered to administer HA gradually, thereby potentially augmenting the therapeutic impacts on the skin, enhancing the bioavailability of HA, and prolonging the benefits. Methodologically, the research conformed to the ARRIVE guidelines, incorporating specific inclusion and exclusion criteria for the animal model. The threads were surgically implanted, and a series of histological indicators were evaluated at scheduled intervals to determine their influence on the structural properties of the skin. The findings indicated that both P(LA/CL)-HA-micro and P(LA/CL)-HA-nano threads demonstrated potential in skin remodeling. Notably, the P(LA/CL)-HA-nano threads may have provided some advantages in enhancing certain structural aspects of the skin. The integration of micro- and nano-HA formulations through NAMICA technology might address individual limitations and synergistically promote biorevitalization in skin remodeling. Nevertheless, the intricate interactions between the biomaterials and hosted tissue underscored in this analysis suggest that additional investigations, especially using human models, are essential to fully discern the clinical implications and refine therapeutic approaches for skin remodeling via these new technologies. Full article

Facial thread lifting with absorbable threads such as poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (P(LA/CL)) has been explored in an animal model. This experimental study utilized P(LA/CL)-HA-micro threads enhanced with hyaluronic acid microencapsulation via NAMICA technology in five four-month-old female pigs. The effects were compared to those of P(LA/CL)-HA threads over a six-month period through histological analysis. The results indicated improvements in skin remodeling, with P(LA/CL)-HA-micro threads enabling controlled and prolonged release of hyaluronic acid, leading to sustained improvements in tissue structure. These findings suggest that microencapsulated threads could enhance therapeutic outcomes; however, these results are preliminary and derived from an animal model. Further research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm these benefits in human subjects. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aging affects the face and eyebrow areas, with various resultant procedures for lifting the eyebrows. Recently, thread lifting using absorbable threads has become increasingly popular, with the advantages of a faster recovery and no visible scars, when compared with conventional facial rhytidectomy. Furthermore, polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting is a favorable surgical method that has been used for eyebrow lifting. However, simply raising the eyebrows overall does not always result in high patient satisfaction. Therefore, in this study, we successfully applied a surgical method to lift the eyebrows, achieving a softer impression of the changing eyebrow shape that is associated with aging. We report on the favorable results yielded by the application of this surgical method. Methods: Between January 2023 and January 2024, a retrospective chart review was conducted for 29 patients who had undergone eyebrow lifting using only PDO threads. Photographs were taken pre- and 3 months post-operatively, in a photo studio with indirect lighting. Patient satisfaction and adverse effects were evaluated immediately and 3 months post-operatively. Results: The overall change in the eyebrow height was minimal at approximately 1.2–1.3 cm; nonetheless, the changes in the angles of the inner eyebrows at 4.00° and 4.44° resulted in a more favorable appearance. In total, 26 out of 29 patients expressed being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the outcomes. Serious complications were not observed. Conclusions: An effective, noninvasive eyebrow correction, considering the shape of the inner eyebrow, was performed. A thread-lifting method was used, which lifted the overall eyebrows and corrected the eyebrow shape. Full article

Facial thread lifting has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional face-lifting procedures, with particular emphasis on U-shaped and I-shaped barbed threads. This review analyzes the anatomical considerations, procedural techniques, and clinical outcomes of different thread types for facial rejuvenation. The study examines the mechanical principles and lifting mechanisms of U-shaped “suspension type” threads versus I-shaped threads, highlighting their distinct characteristics and applications. The results indicate that U-shaped threads provide strong lifting effects, with success rates reported at 85–90% in achieving visible tissue elevation when anchored in the temporal area. However, these threads carry higher risks of complications, including bleeding (15–20%), dimpling (12–18%), and tissue damage at exit points (5–10%). In contrast, I-shaped threads demonstrate advantages in minimizing tissue trauma and patient discomfort, with complication rates below 5%, though they may provide less dramatic lifting effects. The study concludes that optimal outcomes are achieved through careful patient selection and customized combination approaches rather than reliance on a single thread type. Future directions point toward the development of hybrid techniques that combine the strengths of both thread types to maximize efficacy while minimizing complications. Full article

Introduction: Gold threads became widely used in esthetic surgery in the early 1990s. Produced in Spain, these threads consisted of a gold thread (5/0) with a diameter of 0.1 mm, composed of 99.99% pure gold, which was combined with a polyglycolic thread. Since then, discussions about their effectiveness have continued, which is the focus of our study. Patients and Methods: Gold thread implantation was performed on 11,062 patients in four clinics in Moscow over the course of 28 years. This study used a comparative analysis of photo collages created for the visual representation of data and changes before and after the procedure, as well as patient satisfaction assessments using the Patient Satisfaction Scale (PSS). We examined the results of 492 patients who underwent gold thread implantation in the face between 1996 and 2024. Of these patients, 86% were women aged 30 to 60 years, 11% were women aged 20 to 30 years, and 3% were men aged 25 to 60 years. Results: One year after thread implantation, the PSS assessment showed a 91% success rate with minimal complications. Patient satisfaction was high, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 after one month, 4.7 after six months, and 4.6 after one-year post-procedure. Discussion: Gold thread implantation is a minimally invasive procedure that has demonstrated a high level of safety, making it an effective option for facial rejuvenation. Histological studies have shown that gold threads stimulate the production of collagen and elastin and activate angiogenesis, thereby improving skin nourishment and hydration, as well as enhancing the skin tone, elasticity, and turgor. To improve the qualitative characteristics of the skin, it is necessary to work in the subcutaneous layer. Conclusions: Gold thread implantation strengthens the connective tissue framework at the implantation site, thus improving skin nourishment and hydration. Gold threads provide a long-term rejuvenating effect, slowing the ptosis of the soft tissue of the face and neck. Gold thread implantation does not interfere with tissue dissection during surgical interventions or the performance of any cosmetic procedures, including hardware-based treatments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dental implants have emerged as a modern solution for edentulous jaws, showing high success rates. However, the implant’s success often hinges on the patient’s bone quality and quantity, leading to higher failure rates in poor bone sites. To address this issue, short implants have become a viable alternative to traditional approaches like bone sinus lifting. Among these, Bicon^® short implants with a plateau design are popular for their increased surface area, offering potential advantages over threaded implants. Despite their promise, the variability in patient-specific bone quality remains a critical factor influencing implant success and bone turnover regulated by bone strains. Excessive strains can lead to bone loss and implant failure according to Frost’s “Mechanostat” theory. To better understand the implant biomechanical environment, numerical simulation (FEA) is invaluable for correlating implant and bone parameters with strain fields in adjacent bone. The goal was to establish key relationships between short implant geometry, bone quality and quantity, and strain levels in the adjacent bone of patient-dependent elasticity to mitigate the risk of implant failure by avoiding pathological strains. Methods: Nine Bicon Integra-CP™ implants were chosen. Using CT scans, three-dimensional models of the posterior maxilla were created in Solidworks 2022 software to represent the most challenging scenario with minimal available bone, and the implant models were positioned in the jaw with the implant apex supported by the sinus cortical bone. Outer dimensions of the maxilla segment models were determined based on a prior convergence test. Implants and abutments were considered as a single unit made of titanium alloy. The bone segments simulated types III/IV bone by different cancellous bone elasticities and by variable cortical bone elasticity moduli selected based on an experimental data range. Both implants and bone were treated as linearly elastic and isotropic materials. Boundary conditions were restraining the disto-mesial and cranial surfaces of the bone segments. The bone–implant assemblies were subjected to oblique loads, and the bone’s first principal strain fields were analyzed. Maximum strain values were compared with the “minimum effective strain pathological” threshold of 3000 microstrain to assess the implant prognosis. Results: Physiological strains ranging from 490 to 3000 microstrain were observed in the crestal cortical bone, with no excessive strains detected at the implant neck area across different implant dimensions and cortical bone elasticity. In cancellous bone, maximum strains were observed at the first fin tip and were influenced by the implant diameter and length, as well as bone quality and cortical bone elasticity. In the spectrum of modeled bone elasticity and implant dimensions, increasing implant diameter from 4.5 to 6.0 mm resulted in a reduction in maximum strains by 34% to 52%, depending on bone type and cortical bone elasticity. Similarly, increasing implant length from 5.0 to 8.0 mm led to a reduction in maximum strains by 15% to 37%. Additionally, a two-fold reduction in cancellous bone elasticity modulus (type IV vs. III) corresponded to an increase in maximum strains by 16% to 59%. Also, maximum strains increased by 86% to 129% due to a decrease in patient-dependent cortical bone elasticity from the softest to the most rigid bone. Conclusions: The findings have practical implications for dental practitioners planning short finned implants in the posterior maxilla. In cases where the quality of cortical bone is uncertain and bone height is insufficient, wider 6.0 mm diameter implants should be preferred to mitigate the risk of pathological strains. Further investigations of cortical bone architecture and elasticity in the posterior maxilla are recommended to develop comprehensive clinical recommendations considering bone volume and quality limitations. Such research can potentially enable the placement of narrower implants in cases of insufficient bone. Full article

Facial lifting with polydioxanone barbed threads has been widely used in aesthetic treatment for years. However, gravity resists the thread and continuously pulls the face downward. This study aims to determine methods to lift the skin more efficiently with longer longevity. The quality of the thread is important and is defined by the pulling and pullout strengths. Moreover, the method of using threads is also important. We compared five thread-implantation techniques and six angles for the V-shaped implantation methods using a polydimethylsiloxane model to simulate thread migration in tissues. The results of the simulated thread-lift techniques can provide valuable information for physicians, enabling a more precise design of facelift surgery techniques. Full article

The classification of nasolabial folds into three types, each with distinct causative factors and mechanisms, is explored. Age-related changes in facial skin and connective tissues are examined in detail, revealing variations across different facial regions due to variances in tissue firmness and thickness. The innovative ‘Reverse Technique,’ involving cog threads to enhance tissue traction and effectiveness in thread-lifting procedures, is introduced. Detailed technical guidelines, anatomical considerations, and safety measures are provided, emphasizing the importance of identifying optimal vectors and fixing points to achieve maximum lifting effects while minimizing potential risks, particularly those associated with vascular structures. Additionally, the ‘Cross Technique using volumizing thread’ is discussed, designed to smooth tissue boundaries and rejuvenate sagging areas. Facial anatomy, including the positioning of arteries and ligaments, is underscored as essential for ensuring the safety and efficacy of procedures. In conclusion, this review stands as a comprehensive guide for practitioners, offering insights into innovative thread-lifting methods and their applications in addressing nasolabial folds. The primary focus is on achieving optimal aesthetic results while prioritizing patient safety. Full article

Thread-lifting traditionally addressed aging-related skin laxity by leveraging precise thread placement and traction. However, recent advancements, notably cog threads, expanded its application to younger patients seeking facial contour refinement. These newer threads effectively lift sagging areas and refine facial contours, broadening the procedure’s appeal. Challenges arise in selecting threads due to variable physician preferences and patient needs. Clear indications for thread efficacy are vital for credibility and tailored selection. Thread choice depends on tissue laxity, necessitating lighter threads for minimal laxity and stronger ones for significant sagging. However, no single thread universally suits all cases. Combining different threads is favored for optimal outcomes and minimizing side effects. Excessive traction post-procedure may lead to prolonged discomfort and skin irregularities. Post-procedural tension adjustments through massage remain debated, potentially conflicting with minimally invasive principles. Understanding thread characteristics guides tailored selection, considering patient conditions and procedural goals. This comprehensive understanding extends beyond specific products, aiming for optimal outcomes in thread-lifting procedures. Key factors influencing outcomes encompass thread materials, thickness, cog shapes, insertion depth, lifting vectors, and absorbable thread expiration dates. Full article

As interest in skin aesthetics increases, treatments to suppress aging are increasing. Among them, a facelift is the most effective procedure for improving wrinkles. However, side effects including inflammatory reactions occur due to the limitations of the PDO thread itself used during the procedure. In this paper, to improve the function of PDO thread, inorganic particles such as magnesium hydroxide (MH) and zinc oxide (ZO) and a biologically active agent, asiaticoside, were coated on the surface of PDO thread using ultrasonic coating technology. The coated thread exhibited excellent biocompatibility, promoted collagen synthesis, reduced inflammation, and stimulated angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The multifunctional PDO thread has shown promising potential for skin regeneration without inducing fibrosis. Such a practical coating system and the developed multifunctional PDO thread suggest new possibilities for developing safer and more effective materials in cosmetic and regenerative medicine to prevent aging and improve skin aesthetics. Full article

With increasing experience and in an attempt to shorten overall treatment times, implant placement in combination with tooth extractions and sinus lift procedures has become popular. In both cases, primary stability has to be achieved by either engaging apical and oral regions of trabecular bone or by engaging residual host bone beneath the sinus cavity. Extraction sites were formed by pressing a root analog into homogeneous low density polyurethane foam which was used as bone surrogate while a 3 mm thick sheet of medium density foam was used for mimicking a sinus lift situation. Two types (n = 10) of bone level implants with a conventional tapered design and a cervical back taper (NobelActive; control) and a novel design characterized by a shift in core diameter and thread geometry (AlfaGate; test) were placed in these models following conventional osteotomy preparation. Insertion torque was measured using a surgical motor and primary stability was determined by resonance frequency analysis. Statistical analysis was based on Welch two sample t tests with the level of significance set at α = 0.05. In sinuslifting, NobelActive implants required significantly higher insertion torques as compared to AlfaGate (p = 0.000) but did not achieve greater implant stability (p = 0.076). In extraction sites, AlfaGate implants showed both, significantly higher insertion torques (p = 0.004) and significantly greater implant stability (p = 0.000). The novel implant design allowed for greater primary stability when being placed in simulated extraction sockets and sinuslift situations. While in extraction sockets the position of condensing threads in combination with an increase in core diameter is beneficial, the deep cervical threads of the novel implant lead to superior performance in sinuslift situations. Full article

The hybrid kinematic mechanism (HKM) as an alternative remote handling subsystem of the Demonstration Fusion Power Plant (DEMO) breeding blanket (BB) is undergoing extensive theoretical analysis and feasibility verification. In this paper, the forward and inverse kinematic models of the HKM are derived by combining the Newtonian iterative method and the analytical method. Cartesian space trajectory planning is designed based on the trajectories of the HKM lifting of inboard and outboard BBs. The continuous smooth inverse kinematic solutions in the HKM joint space are obtained based on the polynomial interpolation method. For the characteristics of the HKM piston thread driving, the end-effector position error caused by the degradation of the spherical joint into a universal joint is analyzed and calculated. During the lifting of the left inboard BB, there is a maximum absolute error ∆P = 3.1 mm, and as the error continues to expand to the bottom of the BB it causes a risk of collision. Combining the overall effects of driving control, rigid–flexible coupling, etc., on position accuracy, an open-loop variable parameter error compensation plan based on the Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) nonlinear damping least-squares algorithm is proposed and validated in this paper. The simulation results show that the maximum absolute error after compensation is less than 1 mm as the mesh density increases, and the absolute position accuracy can be further improved by local mesh encryption. This study verifies the feasibility of the HKM as a BB remote handling subsystem and provides an option for high-precision control of the HKM. Full article