Dr Sarah Tonks, the founder of The Lovely Clinic, began her Thread Lifting journey with the first wave of threads, giving her firsthand experience with their incredible potential for skin rejuvenation. Since then, TLC has become one of the most sought-after clinics for the treatment. Why? Not only do our doctors have a wealth of experience with the procedure, but we are one of the only places in London to offer PLACL threads, and today, we are excited to pioneer Aptos threads with NAMICA technology.
What Are Aptos Threads?
Aptos were amongst the first to create the Thread Lift treatment – an innovative, non-surgical skin lifting solution designed to tackle skin laxity. The threads, similar to those used for surgical sutures, come in various forms such as bidirectional, multidirectional, spring and twisted. Each type targets specific areas of the face and body, from lifting sagging cheeks and defining the jawline to reshaping the nose and enhancing the breasts. Since their launch in 1996, Aptos threads have undergone several upgrades, including the method of incision and, most recently, the introduction of NAMICA technology.
What Is NAMICA Technology?
Developed by Aptos, NAMICA technology seeks to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) by encapsulating molecules. One of the main challenges has been delivering HA precisely to its target area without molecules losing effectiveness or degrading too quickly. NAMICA technology, now used as part of 4th generation Aptos threads, has successfully tackled this issue, fully unlocking HA’s potential.
Key Features of NAMICA Technology
Encapsulation of HA Molecules
NAMICA technology coats HA molecules of varying sizes, from nano to micro, using the same absorbable material as the thread itself, polylactic acid (PLA). This coating facilitates the controlled release of HA at application sites.
Targeted Delivery
The thickness of the PLA coating depends on the size of the HA molecule, ensuring they remain effective until needed. The encapsulated HA molecules are designed to release precisely at the intended location without loss or premature degradation during the injection process.
Controlled Release
Different sizes of HA molecules exhibit distinct burst rates. For instance, micro-sized particles act within the first 14 days to reduce irritation, sub-micro particles stimulate collagen production over 1-3 months, and nanoparticles continue to deliver HA after 3 months. This phased release ensures prolonged HA secretion and continuous skin benefits.
Enhanced Collagen Production
The controlled release of HA not only maintains skin hydration but stimulates collagen production. A recent study revealed that 100% of patients were ‘very satisfied’ with their Aptos threads at 4, 9 and 12-month follow-up periods. This specifically concerned ‘skin appearance at the end of the day’, ‘skin refreshed appearance’, ‘skin smoothness’, ‘skin hydration’ and ‘skin even coloured’.
Long-Lasting Effects
Treatments using NAMICA technology can provide up to six months of active HA release and more than one year of visible results. This efficiency is due to the technology’s ability to deliver 25 times more HA compared to traditional methods.
Am I A Good Candidate For Aptos Threads?
Thread Lifts are a great option if your skin laxity is a way off surgical intervention but you don’t want to make your face bigger by using Dermal Fillers. A NAMICA Aptos thread can do so much more for the skin than a traditional thread lift which simply lifts the tissues. With NAMICA there is improved skin quality and superior fat repositioning making them suitable for a wide range of people. You might also be surprised to read that Aptos threads can be used even for younger patients who do not wish to have more traditional dermal fillers.
Aptos threads are well suited to overall facial elevation; however, Nordyx PLACL threads are a brilliant way to redefine smaller treatment areas. This may include sharpening lip lines, subtly lifting the cheeks or repositioning lax skin around your eyes.
The best way to discover if you’re a suitable candidate for a Thread Lift is to book a consultation at The Lovely Clinic. During this time, your doctor will assess your skin and talk you through their recommended treatments for preempting or addressing signs of ageing. At TLC, no two treatment plans are the same – your skin is unique and your skincare should reflect this. We believe you should have a solid understanding of the procedures you undergo, so you can anticipate realistic outcomes and are well-prepped for post-treatment aftercare. Looking your best is closely tied to feeling your best and our goal is for you to achieve holistic mind and body confidence.
Get In Touch
Call (0)20 3695 5400, email [email protected], or pop into the clinic to schedule a consultation. If you specifically wish to try Aptos Threads or you’ve visited our clinic before, we’ll book you in with one of our doctors; if you’re new to aesthetics or you want a more general introduction to the services we offer, we’ll start you out with an exploratory call with our clinical assistant. We look forward to hearing from you!
