Dr. Sam Lam Plastic Surgery Forum

Dr. Lam -

First off, you've got an incredible website with a wealth of information; your blog really helps a potential patient like me feel like we know you even though we haven't met YET.

I've been researching the iGuide neck lift (trampoline lift) procedure for a while now and had a few questions; I know I'd need an "official" consult with you to make sure that I qualify, and I assume that you've done your fair share of lifts using this technique.

What is your opinion on the long-term effects of a permanent submental structure (scar tissue formation, ease of removal if complications arise, etc.)? Do you feel like this is a long-term solution (10+ years) to fix a poor genetic cervicomental angle? Will the suture system eventually become lax and need replacing?

I'm a healthy 32 year old male, and I really don't like the thought of having my neck sliced and diced via a full neck lift. Genetics has simply passed me the "short straw" in regards to a strong neck line/profile, and I'm ready to do something about it. However, I don't feel like it would be worthwhile if it's something without long-term efficacy (remember how popular the "thread lift" was when it first came out...until the results for most patients only lasted 6-12 months!?!).

Thanks in advance!

hi,
i have been doing the procedure since last summer and here are my thoughts:
1. it helps for the area in the submental area but not in the lower neck so older necks where there is some hang lower down it will not work there.
2. in the submental area it works well but not perfectly (it is not a facelift) but over a period of several months it actually gets better and tightens.
3. if you have a too much fat then a combination of liposuction and the iGuide works well but if you have a low digastric muscle then the suture is not strong enough to entirely overcome this problem. unfortunately, that is hard to know preoperatively until the procedure is done.
best,
sml

Thank you for your prompt reply, Dr. Lam. Would you mind giving me your thoughts/opinion regarding the long-term efficacy of the trampoline neck lift?

What is the suture structure anchored to under the skin (subcutaneous connective tissue?)?

I know there are many "what if" scenarios to discuss in-person, but I'm just trying to make sure and cover my initial bases. Thanks again!

Because I have done this procedure less than a year, I cannot speak of long-term at least not appropriately. However, I have been pleased with the results so far plus I see results trend toward improvement over time which is a good thing. The inventor of this has shown good long-term results. The reason that I believe this technique differs from the older thread lifts is that those sutures were just sitting under the skin. This suture is crisscrossed and held by the ligamentous support as a continous loop like a shoe lace. I believe that is why the suture has a much more durable fixation. if you are wondering what is holding onto, it is the subcutaneous ligaments especially around the jawbone, which are very firm anchor points. In addition, because scar tissue develops that is why I oftentimes see improvement over time rather than weakening. hope that helps.
best,
sml