The first thread method was the Aptos method discovered by Sulimanidze, which was closely followed by gold thread method. Both lifts are used today. The non-absorbable thread enters through the skin, passes through the deeper underlying tissue and exits through the skin. After the thread is pulled through the protruding ends are removed by the surgeon. Even though thread lifts were very promising unfortunately they did not achieve everything desired, the results last about 1 year. It was discovered that the gold thread may react with the surrounding tissue leading to infection in those who are prone to it.
Nikolay Serdev a Bulgarian plastic surgeon improved this method by using semi-absorbable surgical thread which he guided deep into the tissue of specific areas of the face and then secured them to the periosteum (membrane that covers bone) and suturing the SMAS layer above it. In this manner he tightened not only the skin, but also the layer, which is tightened during a classic face-lift giving us long-lasting results.
The effect of the procedure lasts longer than older thread lift methods. The procedure is ambulatory and done using local anesthesia.