Thread lifts (Featherlift)
PLLA or PDO threads lift and reposition the cheeks, jowls and jawline without surgery.
- Nurse Practitioner–led
- In Calgary since 2015
- Free 15-minute cosmetic consultationsFree consultations
- 2025 BNS Best in Business
What is a thread lift?
A Feather Lift uses PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) threads or PDO (polydioxanone) threads to lift and reposition sagging facial tissue. The PLLA threads are Aptos threads: minimally invasive devices made from biocompatible materials (75% poly-L-lactic acid and 25% polycaprolactone) with bidirectional barbs that anchor into the skin tissue. They are licensed by Health Canada.
Aptos threads work through two mechanisms. Immediate mechanical lifting: the bidirectional barbs anchor into the tissue, providing instant lift and repositioning. Biostimulation: the threads stimulate collagen and elastin production around them, creating a supportive scaffold that improves skin quality and maintains the lifting effect over time.
Michelle Shewchuk, NP, holds Aptos thread lift certification and has over 6 years of thread lift experience.
Not sure this is the right treatment?
A free 15-minute cosmetic consultation is where every plan starts. How a consultation works
What it treats
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines) and marionette lines
- Sagging cheeks and early jowl formation
- Jowls and jawline definition
Where
- Cheeks
- Jowls
- Jawline
What patients say
Conservative
“She will not attempt to up-sell you services, and I have found her to be quite conservative in her approach while still ensuring I have wonderful results.”
Since 2019
“There has never been any pressure, upselling, hidden costs, or overdone results. Just honest guidance, education, and beautifully natural enhancements that always leave me looking and feeling like myself, but better.”
Botox & lips
“She took the time to understand exactly what I wanted and delivered beautiful results that enhanced my features while still looking like me.”
3 syringes
“Michelle is a true example of experience. Very knowledgeable and professional. I did not feel a single pinch.”
What to expect
Consultation
A comprehensive consultation, with a treatment plan tailored to your facial anatomy, and a check that a thread lift is right for you.
Procedure
Under local anaesthesia, the threads are inserted beneath the skin using fine blunt needles, then gently pulled and engaged to lift the sagging tissue. Only 2 to 3 injection points are used per side. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Recovery
Minimal downtime: most people return to normal activities within days. Mild bruising, swelling and tenderness are normal and should subside within 1 to 2 weeks.
Follow-up
Follow-up visits at 1 week and 1 month, or sooner if you have any concerns.
Results
Lifting is visible immediately, with further improvement as collagen production increases around the threads. Aptos (PLLA) threads last up to 1 to 2 years; PDO threads up to six months.
FAQ
Is a thread lift surgery?
No. A thread lift is non-surgical. It is done under local anaesthesia, through 2 to 3 injection points per side.
How long does the procedure take?
Typically 30 to 60 minutes, under local anaesthesia only.
How long do the results last?
Aptos (PLLA) threads last up to 1 to 2 years, PDO threads up to six months, and the lift improves gradually as collagen builds around the threads.
Is there downtime?
Minimal. Most people return to normal activities within days. Mild bruising, swelling and tenderness are normal and should subside within 1 to 2 weeks.
Who is not a candidate?
You are not a good candidate if you are under 19 years old, pregnant, a poor healer, diabetic or immunocompromised, or if you have an autoimmune disease, a blood clotting disorder or a bleeding risk. If you have a history of cold sores, tell your practitioner: a prophylactic antiviral may be prescribed.
Which threads are used?
PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) threads, which are Aptos threads, or PDO (polydioxanone) threads. Aptos threads last longer, up to 1 to 2 years against up to six months for PDO, and cost more.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Yes, Aptos threads can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results.
Who performs the procedure?
Michelle Shewchuk, NP. She holds Aptos thread lift certification and has over 6 years of thread lift experience.
