If you’ve been looking for a way to treat wrinkles and lines, but want to avoid surgery, then a thread lift facelift may be the anti-aging treatment for you. However, there are still things you should know before getting this procedure, since not all thread lifts are created equal.
What is a thread lift facelift, exactly?
Thread lifting is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation technique that has been used for over a decade.
It is a method of tightening facial skin so that it appears more youthful. The technique involves the use of fine threads. The threads are made of materials such as polycaprolactone (PCA, absorbable), poly-L-lactic acid (absorbable), polydioxanone (PDO, absorbable) or polypropylene (non-absorbable).
Threads are inserted into the skin via small incisions and channeled through to another point in the skin. They are then pulled tight, creating an instant lift in the skin and stimulating collagen production. They essentially lift and reposition sagging tissue.
Why are threads for face lifts so popular?
While using threads in medicine is not new (think: sutures for stitching wounds), the idea of using them cosmetically only appeared around the 1990s. Dr. Gregory Ruff launched his own version of thread lifts, while almost simultaneously, Dr. Marlen Sulamanidze began using them in Russia. In Asia, the PDO (polydioxanone) thread lift took hold.
Since then, doctors and scientists have further developed the procedure.
For example, instead of only using a mono suture, or a suture with barbed threads, doctors can now use bi-directional barbed threads. The ‘barbs’ are little cones attached to the thread to help hold skin tissue in place more effectively. They also help increase collagen production.
The bi-directional barbed threads are thought to give a better hold in the skin. This makes their effects last longer, leading to more patient satisfaction.
A popular choice for bi-directional thread lifts is the Silhouette InstaLift® product, since it is Health Canada approved.
Today, there are a variety of different thread designs, including spiral threads, screw threads[1], and wave threads, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits.
Thread lifts have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many celebrities and influencers turning to the procedure for a non-surgical solution to achieving a youthful appearance.
What are the side effects of a thread lift procedure?
The thread lift face lift procedure is largely popular because it does not require surgery. This not only means it is more affordable, it also means it is a lot safer than a surgical facelift.
Still, there are potential side effects that patients should know about before undergoing a thread lift procedure. You’ll notice, however, they are all minor compared to the potential side effects of surgery:
Bruising and swelling: Thread lift procedures typically cause some degree of bruising and swelling in the treated areas, which can last for a few days to a couple of weeks.
Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary numbness or tingling in the treated areas, which usually resolves within a few days.
Pain and discomfort: Mild to moderate pain and discomfort are common after a thread lift procedure, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Infection: Although rare, infection can occur after a thread lift procedure.
Imperfections or asymmetry: In some cases, the threads may not be placed evenly or may not provide the desired results, leading to imperfections or asymmetry. Always choose an experienced provider to avoid these issues.
Migration or unraveling of threads: The threads used in a thread lift procedure can migrate or unravel, which can lead to poor results or complications. You should avoid sleeping on your side, rubbing your face or doing heavy exercise for a few weeks after a thread lift procedure.
Allergic reaction: Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the threads used in their procedure.
Scarring: In rare cases, scarring may occur at the insertion sites of the threads. The good thing is that these insertion sites are very small, the size of a needle.
Nodules: Occasionally, small nodules may develop at the site of the threads. These can be treated with cortisone injections.
Inability to remove the threads: Threads are embedded and are not removable once inserted. This is intentional, but only becomes a problem if they were placed in an unapproved area or the patient didn’t follow the post-op instructions. This situation is why absorbable threads are the more popular option these days.
A thread lift is a viable, non-surgical option for a modern face lift
The thread lift facelift procedure is nothing new, and has been used all over the world to achieve an anti-aging effect on the face. Thread lifting has undergone many changes and improvements over the years. Today, it is still considered a safe and effective non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation. It’s side effects are minimal compared to surgical face lifts, and it is a lot cheaper too.
Source:
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/pdo-thread-lift#benefits-of-pdo-threads
