title: The emerging technique of the antiptosis subdermal suspension thread.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The improvement in and rejuvenation of facial features through the array of facioplasty techniques currently available remains intimately linked with the risk of complications associated with the cosmetic surgery procedure. The need for novel approaches to cosmetic facial surgery that achieve the desired end result for the patient while minimizing inherent risks and complications for the surgeon is acute.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the efficacy of the Aptos subdermal suspension thread technique as an alternative to current facioplasty options through a studied series of this procedure.
  
  
  METHODS
  Three hundred fifty Aptos procedures were performed on female patients as office-based, single-surgery procedures over a 43-month period. The procedure outcome was assessed in each case through patient interviews and surgeons' observations.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three hundred forty eight of the 350 Aptos procedures resulted in a completely satisfactory end point of facial rejuvenation. No major complications were reported, and mild asymmetry, ecchymosis, erythema, bleeding, visible threads, swelling, and discomfort were the only minor. Transient complications and side effects were noted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Our case study strongly suggests that the Aptos subdermal suspension thread technique provides an effective and much safer alternative to current facioplasty procedures for facial rejuvenation.
authors.affiliation: AgeDefYing Dermatology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. basl@shaw.ca
authors.forename: Barry
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Lycka
authors.forename: Carl
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Bazan
authors.forename: Eduardo
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Poletti
authors.forename: Ben
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Treen
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011126:Polypropylenes; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015361:Rhytidoplasty / Q000379:methods*; D015595:Skin Aging; D013536:Suture Techniques
chemical_list: D011126:Polypropylenes