What is a thread facelift?

A thread lift is a cosmetic medical procedure in which special threads are inserted through designed channels under the skin with the help of a needle or cannula. Some threads have barbs, teeth, or retaining structures to hold the tissue in a higher position. Others have a smooth surface and are used more to stimulate a tissue repair response; this effect does not mean guaranteed collagen production or complete replacement of lost volume.

This procedure should not be confused with a facelift. In surgery, the skin and deeper tissues are more extensively corrected; however, the threads only allow for limited tissue movement. Therefore, a thread lift is usually recommended for mild to moderate sagging and may not produce satisfactory results for severe sagging, excessive excess skin, or extensive age-related changes.

Mechanism of action and types of yarn

The effect of threads depends on their design, material, depth, and placement. Barbed or serrated threads can hold soft tissue in a specific direction and create limited movement. The body's natural healing response to the thread may also cause changes in the surrounding tissue, but the extent of this effect varies from person to person and should not be equated with permanent skin tightening.

Absorbable sutures

Many of the threads used are made of absorbable materials, including polydioxanone (PDO), polylactic acid (PLLA), or compounds such as polycaprolactone (PCL). The rate of absorption and duration of effect are not the same for all products and depend on the composition, thread design, treatment area, and body condition. The name of the material alone is not enough to predict results or durability.

Straight threads and holding threads

• Flat or single-strand threads: These are usually used for more limited purposes and in specific patterns and do not necessarily create a significant lifting effect.
• Barbed or serrated sutures: Designed for limited tissue gripping and lifting; the direction and depth of their placement are important for outcome and safety.
• Conical or retaining structure threads: have a different design and should be used according to product instructions and doctor's diagnosis.

Approvals, authorized uses, and quality of products may vary by country and product. The patient can ask about the exact product name, manufacturer, relevant licenses, and sterile packaging.

Which areas can be treated with threading?

Depending on the individual's anatomy, the type of thread, and the doctor's assessment, some of the following areas may be examined:

• Cheeks and midface, in cases of mild to moderate sagging;
• Jawline and limited sagging along the sides of the jaw;
• Lower part of the face and sometimes around the marionette line;
• Eyebrows, in selected cases and with special attention to the anatomy around the eyes;
• Some other areas, only if conditions are suitable and using a product designed for that area.

Not all areas of the face are suitable for all types of thread. Skin thickness, muscle movement, presence of fatty tissue, location of blood vessels and nerves, and history of previous treatments should be considered when designing the routes. Using the thread in the wrong area or with too much tension can cause unevenness, abnormal stretching, or complications.

Who are the better options?

Typically, people with the following conditions may be more suitable for evaluation of a thread lift:

• Mild to moderate sagging limited to one or more areas;
• Quality leather with the right thickness to hold the thread;
• Expect a gentle change, not a radical transformation of the face;
• Good general health and ability to follow aftercare;
• Understanding that the outcome may be temporary, asymmetric, or less than expected.

Age alone is not a selection criterion. Two people of the same age may differ greatly in skin quality, tissue volume, bone structure, and degree of sagging. The appropriate decision is made after an examination, review of medical history, and discussion of the goal of treatment.

Pre-treatment assessment and preparation

Before performing the procedure, the doctor should ask about the patient's goal, history of cosmetic treatments, diseases, allergies, medications, and skin healing process. Examination of the face at rest and in motion, assessment of skin quality, and examination of natural facial asymmetry will help in planning. Medical imaging may also be performed to document the pre-treatment condition.

Before visiting, discuss the following with your doctor:

• Taking blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, supplements, or herbal remedies;
• a history of unusual bleeding, severe bruising, allergies or reactions to medical materials;
• The presence of underlying diseases, immune disorders, or wound healing problems;
• Previous treatments such as fillers, botulinum toxin, laser, surgery, or threading;
• Presence of infection, inflammation, sores, or active acne in the area;
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding; the safety and appropriateness of elective cosmetic procedures during this period should be reviewed with a doctor.

Do not stop taking prescribed medication, especially blood thinners. Any changes in medication should be coordinated with the prescribing and performing physician. You should also have ample opportunity to ask questions about realistic outcomes, side effects, alternatives, and follow-up plans.

Steps for performing a thread facelift

1. Consultation and design: The treatment area, entry route, and direction of tissue movement are determined based on the examination.
2. Skin preparation: The skin is cleansed and disinfected. Sterile principles are essential to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is usually used; the amount and method depend on the treatment plan and the patient's condition.
4. Thread placement: The doctor guides the thread into the desired layer with the appropriate tool. The number of threads and their route should be determined based on the individual's needs, not a fixed prescription for everyone.
5. Adjustment and Inspection: After the suture is placed, the symmetry and condition of the tissue is checked. Slight stretching or shrinkage may be seen in the first hours or days.
6. Providing care instructions: The patient should receive specific doctor's instructions, warning signs, and follow-up appointments.

There may be a feeling of pressure, pulling, or mild discomfort during the procedure. The severity of discomfort varies from person to person. Performing the procedure in a non-sterile environment, using an unknown product, or having the procedure performed by someone who is not medically qualified can increase the risk of complications.

Results, time to appear and durability

Some of the change may be seen immediately after the procedure, but initial swelling, bruising, and stretching can temporarily alter the appearance of the face. After the initial reactions subside, the result becomes more predictable. The time for this process is not the same for everyone, and the doctor must determine the follow-up time based on the type of thread and the individual's condition.

The duration of the result depends on various factors: the type and design of the thread, the initial sagging, the quality of the skin, age and tissue characteristics, lifestyle, movement of the area and the natural changes of the face over time. Therefore, a specific duration cannot be guaranteed for everyone. Absorbable threads gradually decompose in the body and the duration of the effect is not certain or permanent.

Thread lift does not prevent the natural aging process and is not a substitute for daily skin care, sun protection, or treatment of skin conditions. Repeat treatments should only be performed after re-evaluation and weighing the benefits and risks; early or unexamined repetition may increase the risk of complications.

Post-thread lift care

The doctor's instructions are paramount, as the care required may vary depending on the type of thread, the treatment area, and the individual's condition. In general, following these tips can help reduce irritation to the area:

• In the first few days, avoid manipulating, pressing, massaging, or pulling the treated area;
• Avoid making any sudden facial movements or opening your mouth too wide until your doctor has cleared you.
• Limit strenuous physical activity and activities that put pressure or impact on the face for the recommended duration;
• When sleeping, use a position that does not put direct, prolonged pressure on the treatment area;
• Ask your doctor about the best time to wash your face, apply makeup, shave, visit the dentist, or have skin treatments.
• Take medicine or ointment only as recommended by your doctor and do not start a new medication arbitrarily to reduce pain.
• Use cold compresses safely if recommended by your doctor; do not apply ice directly to the skin.
• Attend follow-up visits, even if you don't see any obvious complications.

Bruising, swelling, tenderness, or a mild stretching sensation may occur; however, excessive severity, worsening of symptoms, or unexpected changes should be discussed with a doctor.

Possible complications and risks

No medical procedure is completely risk-free. The likelihood of complications depends on the individual's condition, the site of treatment, the type of product, sterile conditions, and the skill of the practitioner. Some reactions are temporary, but others may require evaluation or treatment.

• Pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising: These are usually seen in the first few days and their severity varies.
• Dimpling, stretching, or wrinkling of the skin: may appear, especially in the early days; if persistent or increasing, should be investigated.
• Asymmetry or undesirable result: Natural differences in the two sides of the face, swelling, or thread placement can affect the final appearance.
• Thread palpability or visibility: May occur in thin skin or if placed improperly.
• Protruding or displaced suture: May require evaluation and sometimes treatment; do not pull or cut the protruding suture yourself.
• Infection: May be accompanied by increasing pain, redness, warmth, discharge, or fever and requires medical attention.
• Inflammatory reaction or nodule formation: In some cases, a lump or local tenderness may develop.
• Damage to blood vessels or nerves: Rare, but can be accompanied by bleeding, numbness, weakness, or unusual pain.
• Tissue damage or scarring: In rare cases, it occurs, usually in connection with infection, impaired blood supply, or tissue damage.

Precautions and contraindications

The suitability of treatment should be assessed on an individual basis. Treatment may be delayed, require consultation with a medical professional, or not recommended at all in the following circumstances:

• Active infection, inflammation, wound, or lesion in the area to be treated;
• Bleeding disorder, taking medications that affect clotting, or a history of significant bruising and bleeding;
• Uncontrolled underlying diseases or conditions that impair tissue repair;
• Immune disorders or history of severe reactions to medical substances, after evaluation by a physician;
• Very thin skin, severe laxity, or conditions where the tissue is unable to properly hold the thread;
• Unrealistic expectations or inability to adhere to restrictions and aftercare;
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to the elective nature of this procedure and the need for a safety review by a doctor.

The presence of an item on this list does not necessarily mean a definite contraindication for everyone; the decision depends on a medical evaluation and specific circumstances. Complete and honest information about diseases and medications is important to reduce risk.

Comparing thread lift with other methods

These methods are not necessarily substitutes for each other, and their combination is not suitable for everyone. The choice should be based on the underlying problem, the patient's health status, and informed preference, not simply on advertising or recommendations for a particular method.

What factors does the cost of a thread facelift depend on?

The final cost depends on the country and city, type and number of threads, treatment area, complexity of the design, experience and qualification of the doctor, facility facilities, and the need for evaluation or follow-up. A very low price may indicate the need for further investigation into the type of product, sterility of the environment, the qualifications of the practitioner, and after-treatment services.

When getting a cost estimate, ask about the product name and number of threads, possible follow-up costs, how complications are handled, and cancellation or change policies. Cheaper or more expensive alone is not a measure of quality or appropriateness of the treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thread Lift