For the past few years, I have been honored when asked to teach the dermatology residents about injectables like neuromodulators and fillers. They are eager young minds. Fresh. Idealistic. Optimistic. They have their whole lives before them. Life spreads before them like a dessert buffet, and they may have whatever they choose.

This year I had a request for my lecture. Can you please teach us about Silhouette Instalift? Well, of course! And now I will teach you the same pearls of wisdom.

Not a filler, and not a surgery, Silhouette Instalift is a non-invasive lunchtime procedure which offers both an instantaneous lift, as well long-lasting neocollagenesis (new collagen formation). Threads which are composed of polylactic acid alternate knots and cones, positioned between two semi-cannulas to be placed at the appropriate deep dermal depth by a trained provider to allow for a traction effect on the tissue in the lower face and neck. As the underlying tissue is advanced upwards and laterally moving against the forces of gravity and aging, there is a temporary bunching or gathering effect in the overlying skin in the preauricular region (in front of the ear) and inferior to the jawline. This bunching effect resolves within 5-7 days leaving a smooth, taut and lifted complexion and jawline.

Recovery time for this procedure is only 2-3 days.

The lift effect typically lasts 18-24 months and is immediate, however the new collagen effects last up to 4 years as proven in clinical trials using skin biopsies.

Ideal candidates include:

  • Patients with good skin texture and tone, but with skin laxity
  • Patients who desire a non-invasive lift
  • Patients who desire minimal recovery times
  • Patients who need and want more than what injectables or devices can offer them
  • Patients who wish to combine Silhouette Instalift with injectables or devices for maximum “WOW” effect when it comes to aesthetic treatment choices

Candidates who are not a good choice for Silhouette Instalift include patients who have very thin skin as the threads with the cones and knots could potentially be visualized post-procedure. Additionally, patients who have a higher body mass index with excessive subcutaneous fat in the face and neck regions, or thickened, sebaceous skin or acne scarring are not good candidates as the threads do not have the tensile strength to lift the tissue in these populations. Lastly, patients with such a level of laxity that only surgery can correct are not appropriate for Silhouette Instalift.

Silhouette Instalift can be a homerun for patients and for the provider. It’s a great procedure, and I admit —it’s fun to perform! So as the residents get ready to spread their wings and fly, or face the dessert buffet…whatever the analogy, I hope they add the Silhouette Instalift to their extensive list of skills and talents. And save a piece of chocolate cake for me!

If you are interested in learning more about Silhouette Instalift, contact the Dermatology Office at 214-373-7546 or read additional blogs by Dr. Ellen Turner, click the link in my bio. Go to my website at www.dermofficedallas.com to see more Instalift before and after photos and look for Dr. Turner’s exciting new website launching in 2025–DrEllenTurner.com.