FDA Approves Non-Surgical Facelift Which Uses Tiny Cones On Thread Inserted Through Small Puncture

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A new, non-surgical facelift has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

CBS 3's Stephanie Stahl reports it's a new-and-improved version of the "thread lift," which didn't work out so well.

Dr. Paul Lorenc said the Silhouette Instalift is unique because it uses tiny cones on a thread that are inserted through a small puncture.

"You get the immediate effect of lifting the tissue just by placing the suture underneath the skin, but also the long-term effect of volumizing the face as the material is being processed in the body. It builds collagen," the plastic surgean said.

Lorenc is a consultant for the company and was involved in the clinical trials.

"There is really no down time," Lorenc said. "A little bit of swelling for 24 hours and after 24 hours no restrictions for the patient."

Lorenc added that studies show the results lasts about 18 months. It costs between $3,500 to $5,500.

Patient Jennifer Douglas took part in the minimally invasive procedure and said it was time and money well spent.

"I feel great," Douglas said. "I definitely feel the lift."

A local numbing medication is used for the 45-minute procedure.

Six to nine months later, the threads and cones dissolve, leaving the face lifted and plump.

Doctors said the Instalift works best on patients in their 40s and 50s.