Aptos Thread Lift, What's the Difference? From Principles to Lifespan

Aptos thread lifting is a minimally invasive, non-surgical lifting procedure that physically pulls up sagging tissues by inserting medical threads with microscopic barbs (cogs) into the subcutaneous layer. The key point is that the threads gradually dissolve and induce collagen production, allowing the elasticity improvement effect to continue even after the threads disappear. In other words, you can understand it as a procedure in which immediate pulling and long-term skin regeneration work simultaneously.

The maintenance period is approximately 1 year and 6 months to 2 years based on absorbable threads. This is typically described as longer than general PDO thread lifting (average of 6 to 8 months). The procedure time takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and swelling and bruising usually subside within 1 to 2 weeks. However, in cases of severe sagging or excess skin, there are clear limitations that make it difficult to fill with threads alone. Let's look at them one by one below.

🧵 What is Aptos Thread Lifting?

Aptos is a thread lifting brand and treatment system developed in the late 1990s by Marlen Sulamanidze, a Russian plastic surgeon. The explanation that the name itself comes from 'Anti-Ptosis', meaning 'preventing sagging', is commonly accepted. It is currently used in more than 90 countries worldwide.

One point to clarify here: Aptos is a specific brand name, not a term for all thread lifting procedures. There are various thread products on the market, and Aptos is just one of those families.

The working principle is simpler than you might think. Microscopic barbs on the surface of the thread — structures called cogs or barbs — physically hook and pull the tissue. The nature of the pull varies depending on the direction these barbs hook (unidirectional or bidirectional). The threads are primarily positioned in the layer near the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system), and the depth and vector in which they are placed are the decisive variables that determine the results.

📌 Key Summary: Aptos is a branded thread lifting procedure that hooks and pulls tissue with threads equipped with cogs (barbs), and 'all thread lifting = Aptos' is not true.

🔬 What ingredients is it made of?

The differentiating factor of Aptos threads lies in their material composition. It combines PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), PCL (polycaprolactone), and HA (hyaluronic acid) to assign different roles for each layer.

• PLLA: Strongly induces collagen production. This is the ingredient that provides the basis for long-term elasticity improvement.

• PCL: Responsible for longevity due to its slow decomposition rate. Absorption periods vary by material.

• HA: Coated on the surface of the thread using NAMICA technology, it is slowly released after the procedure to aid in moisturization and skin conditioning.

Looking at the absorption period of each material in the body, the difference is clear. PDO takes about 6 to 8 months, PLLA about 12 months, and PCL about 12 to 24 months. This is why Aptos lasts relatively longer because it is based on PLLA and PCL.

NAMICA is Aptos' proprietary technology that coats the surface of the thread with HA and releases it slowly. It is introduced as the basis for the concept of 'bio-lifting', which goes beyond simple pulling to take care of skin texture as well.

📌 Key Summary: The material characteristics of Aptos include a complex composition of PLLA (collagen induction), PCL (longevity), and HA (moisturization), combined with NAMICA HA coating technology.

⏳ How long does the effect last?

Based on absorbable threads, the average period is explained as 1 year and 6 months to 2 years. However, there is a point here that can be easily misunderstood.

'The maintenance period of the thread' and 'the duration of the visible lifting effect' do not necessarily coincide. This is because even after the thread is physically absorbed, the collagen and elastin tissue formed around the thread takes over as a support. Conversely, if the aging process is fast or lifestyle habits do not support it, the perceived effect may be shortened.

To summarize the timeline: the physical lifting appears immediately after the procedure, and collagen synthesis is activated from about 1 to 2 weeks post-procedure. And the most natural final result settles in at around the 2 to 3-month mark. The initial awkwardness or excessive pulling becomes softer around this time.

📌 Key Summary: It lasts an average of 1 to 2 years, but the lifespan of the thread and the perceived effect are different, and thanks to collagen remodeling, the final completion appears at the 2 to 3-month mark.

⚖️ How does it differ from other lifting procedures?

Lifting methods vary in principles and invasiveness. They are compared in the table below.

HIFU and RF (Thermage family) have the advantage of short recovery times because they stimulate collagen with energy without incisions or thread insertion. On the other hand, thread lifting has a different approach in that it is a physical lifting that directly pulls up sagging tissue. Therefore, protocols that combine threads with energy procedures are also common.

Facelifts are considered a powerful alternative in terms of effectiveness when sagging is severe and there is a lot of excess skin. However, as it is an incisional surgery, the burden of invasiveness and recovery is significant. Onlif Clinic does not perform incisional surgeries and prioritizes improvement through non-surgical treatments from a dermatological perspective. This involves combining thread lifting, ultrasound HIFU/radiofrequency RF, fillers, and skin boosters to match the client's specific concerns. Whether surgery is necessary is a matter to be judged after directly evaluating your condition.

📌 Key Summary: Thread lifting is physical pulling, while HIFU/RF is energy stimulation. Because their principles are different, they are often combined, and unless sagging is severe, non-surgical procedures are usually the first approach.

🩹 What is the procedure and recovery like?

The procedure is performed primarily under local anesthesia, with sedation anesthesia combined if necessary. It takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Returning to light daily activities is usually expected within the next day to 3 days.

There are things to observe during the recovery period, as the initial phase when the threads settle is important.

• Avoid exaggerated facial expressions and facial massages

• Refrain from saunas, bathhouses, and strenuous exercise

• Avoid chewing hard foods (for at least 1 to 2 weeks)

• Postpone dental treatments that require opening the mouth wide until after recovery

Additionally, from one week before the procedure, it is recommended to consult with your medical staff to adjust the intake of medications and supplements that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, Vitamin E, and Omega-3. Be sure to consult before stopping them arbitrarily.

📌 Key Summary: Centered on a 30 to 60-minute local anesthesia, returning to daily life within 1 to 3 days. It is safe to avoid exaggerated expressions, massages, saunas, strenuous exercise, and hard foods for 1 to 2 weeks.

⚠️ What are the side effects and who should be cautious?

There are risks with any procedure. Commonly mentioned issues with Aptos include bruising, swelling, skin irregularities (dimpling/depression), and asymmetry, with rare occurrences of infection or nerve-related symptoms. Most recover over time, but to obtain stable results, the design of the insertion layer and vector, as well as the anatomical understanding and skill of the practitioner, are decisive.

Particular caution is required in the following cases:

• Keloid constitution

• Cases with autoimmune diseases

• During pregnancy or breastfeeding

And if the following symptoms occur, contact the clinic without delay:

• Skin discoloration or severe pain

• Nerve-related signs such as asymmetry or abnormal movement around the corners of the mouth or eyes

• Changes suspected of infection, such as swelling accompanied by heat

📌 Key Summary: Bruising, swelling, dimpling, and asymmetry are common side effects, and caution is needed in cases of keloids, autoimmune diseases, and pregnancy. Nerve symptoms or severe discoloration should be reported to the medical staff immediately.

🌿 Onlif's Perspective on Lifting

The goal of lifting is not to change your face into a different person. It is closer to restoring the contours that have faded with age back to their original places.

Onlif Clinic holds this philosophy as its standard: Because you are precious, we do not change you. Rather than plastic surgery that alters the shape of the eyes, nose, or mouth, our approach is to clear away skin concerns like sagging and loss of elasticity that obscure your inherent beauty. Moderately, and without letting the results look obvious.

It is difficult for a single doctor to be equally outstanding at every procedure. Therefore, we choose a method where each doctor takes charge of the procedure they perform best in their respective field. Even with thread lifting alone, the type of thread, insertion depth, and pulling direction must be designed differently for each face. If necessary, we consider combining ultrasound HIFU/radiofrequency RF, fillers, skin boosters, and Botox to draw natural improvements across three pillars: 'Texture, Balance, and Signs of Youth'.

📌 Key Summary: Rather than plastic surgery that changes the form, Onlif's direction is a non-surgical approach that relieves skin concerns to restore inherent beauty.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Aptos and general PDO thread lifting?

While PDO threads have an absorption period of about 6 to 8 months, Aptos is based on PLLA and PCL, so it is described as lasting longer, averaging 1 year and 6 months to 2 years. Also, the difference is that a moisturizing effect is added through NAMICA technology, which coats the thread with HA.

Does the lifting effect disappear immediately once the threads dissolve?

No, it does not. Even after the threads are absorbed, the collagen and elastin tissue formed around the threads takes over the supporting role, so the effect is maintained for a certain period. However, individual perception varies depending on the rate of aging and lifestyle habits.

Can I go to work immediately after the procedure?

Returning to light daily activities is usually expected within the next day to 3 days after the procedure. However, swelling and bruising can last for about 1 to 2 weeks, so it is better to allow some buffer time if you have important schedules.

My face looks uneven right after the procedure. Is this normal?

Mild initial irregularities or dimpling often subside as the threads settle. However, if they persist or are severe, you must contact the clinic where you received the treatment to check the condition.

Can Aptos thread lifting replace a facelift?

If the sagging is not severe, it can be a non-surgical alternative. However, in states where there is a lot of excess skin and sagging is severe, there are clear limitations to thread lifting, and in such cases, the appropriate method must be determined through an accurate diagnosis.

Can I receive it together with Botox and fillers?

Yes, this is a combination that is frequently planned together. They can complement each other by pulling sagging areas with thread lifting, adjusting volume and wrinkles with fillers, and coordinating muscle movements with Botox. The sequence and interval are determined through consultation.

Are there any contraindications for who should not receive the procedure?

Caution is required for those with keloid constitutions, autoimmune diseases, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is safe to fully inform the medical staff of your medical history and medications before the procedure.

Aptos Thread Lifting: Good Things to Check Before Choosing a Clinic

Even for the same procedure, the results and recovery process vary depending on where, by whom, and how it is performed.

Asking these items directly during the consultation will help you make a decision.

• Is it a place that performs the procedure frequently? — The main procedures that clinics focus on differ. Check if it is a clinic that regularly performs Aptos thread lifting.

• Can I verify the products and equipment used? — Ask if you can verify the product name and authenticity (whether it is an imported approved product, and if there is a process to confirm unboxing) during the consultation.

• Do they explain the breakdown of costs? — Rather than just hearing the total amount, you need to hear an explanation of what product is used, how much, and in which area to make a proper judgment.

• Do they design by looking at the entire face? — Even for the same procedure, the placement location and quantity vary depending on the face shape, skin condition, and left-right asymmetry.

• Do they explain adverse reactions and the recovery process first? — A consultation that informs you about possible adverse reactions and how to cope with them is better for making a judgment than one that only talks about expected changes.

• Is there a follow-up pathway after the procedure? — Check if the timing for progress checks, how to contact them if there is an issue, and the criteria for follow-up visits are established.

Onlif Clinic Performs Aptos Thread Lifting This Way

• We divide responsibilities — With the belief that a single doctor does not handle every procedure, Onlif divides medical treatment among doctors responsible for each specific field.

• We verify products and equipment together during consultation — We guide you through the products used and the unboxing verification process during the consultation.

• Costs are guided along with the plan after diagnosis — Since the area, volume, and scope differ for each person, we explain what is required and how much it costs together.

• We design looking at the overall balance of the face — We view the face through three pillars—texture, balance, and signs of youth—and make plans in a direction that organizes parts obscuring the natural impression rather than changing the shape.

• We explain adverse reactions and recovery processes first — Along with the changes that can be expected, we guide you through individual differences, possible adverse reactions, and coping methods before the procedure.

• We review the progress together after the procedure — If verification is needed during the recovery period, we provide guidance on follow-up visits and contact pathways.

If you are considering Aptos thread lifting, it is best to first check what is possible and what is difficult in your current condition.

An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can only be determined through an in-person consultation. Come check through a consultation at Gangnam Onlif Clinic.