BACKGROUND: Facial rejuvenation surgery has yielded results through cutaneous suspension or deep, subperiosteal suspension. However, these complex procedures do not address the fatty structures that always require elevation and fixation. OBJECTIVE: In search of a simple and efficient solution, we have investigated the use of polypropylene monofilament threads (known as Beramendi threads), which feature double-convergent cog-like anchors for elevation and fixation of the soft tissue. METHOD: We placed these threads in the indicated directions and locations, through a bezel-tipped trocar, without visible scars. Fifty-two patients who underwent this technique were followed for 18 months. We present here the observed ideal indications, limitations, and complications of this procedure. RESULTS: The observed results were good or satisfactory in most cases. Ecchymosis, edema, discomfort, and pain were observed, as well as some incidents of localized depression (dimpling), which either resolved spontaneously or through subsequent minor correction. CONCLUSIONS: Results observed using this method, despite our small number of cases, suggest that it is a useful and simple procedure that deserves further investigation as to whether it might, in some cases, substitute for or complement certain conventional methods of facial rejuvenation.
BACKGROUND: Facial rejuvenation surgery has yielded results through cutaneous suspension or deep, subperiosteal suspension. However, these complex procedures do not address the fatty structures that always require elevation and fixation. OBJECTIVE: In search of a simple and efficient solution, we have investigated the use of polypropylene monofilament threads (known as Beramendi threads), which feature double-convergent cog-like anchors for elevation and fixation of the soft tissue. METHOD: We placed these threads in the indicated directions and locations, through a bezel-tipped trocar, without visible scars. Fifty-two patients who underwent this technique were followed for 18 months. We present here the observed ideal indications, limitations, and complications of this procedure. RESULTS: The observed results were good or satisfactory in most cases. Ecchymosis, edema, discomfort, and pain were observed, as well as some incidents of localized depression (dimpling), which either resolved spontaneously or through subsequent minor correction. CONCLUSIONS: Results observed using this method, despite our small number of cases, suggest that it is a useful and simple procedure that deserves further investigation as to whether it might, in some cases, substitute for or complement certain conventional methods of facial rejuvenation.