THREAD LIFTS PROS AND CONS

What are the indications, contraindications and materials used in a thread lift? Threads, or sutures, are used to lift the facial features, with a natural and immediate lifting effect, or to counteract the signs of skin ageing thanks to the natural stimulation of collagen production. A thread lift, in particular with threads used for biostimulation, is a treatment that does not require invasive surgery.
The threads used in a thread face lift are generally made of biocompatible material that is totally resorbable, therefore the risks of side effects are greatly reduced.

Thread lifts

• lifting with an effect similar to a surgical facelift
• stimulation of collagen synthesis

There are three types of threads:

• biostimulation
• traction
• anchoring (or barbed)

The threads are available in different sizes and structures to meet all needs. Biostimulation threads are used to:

• stimulate the regeneration of collagen
• improve skin texture
• restore skin elasticity

Traction and anchoring threads allow you to:

• reposition the skin
• pull and bring the skin back and up
• produce a "lifting" effect on the tissues of the treated area

these threads are used to fix the facial tissues at precise points, and therefore their aim is to prevent any sagging due to the force of gravity. The objective of the treatment is therefore to produce smooth skin.  

Thread lifts: the materials

• biocompatible (does not usually cause rejection)
• resorbable
• long-lasting effects

Over the last few years the use of polydioxanone biostimulation threads has become established:

• biocompatible material
• resorbable
• stimulates the production of new collagen fibres
• counteracts skin laxity due to ageing
• reduces structural tissue weakening

Thread lifts: potential candidates

The appropriate procedure is for both men and women with signs of premature facial ageing. Thread lifts are not suitable for people with too many wrinkles or excessive sagging of the skin. In this case a surgical facelift is recommended. In general, adults who are in good health and have realistic expectations can undergo the treatment.

Thread lifts: what are the characteristics of the treatment?

• stimulates the creation of collagen
• creates a soothing effect on hypotonic skin
• practically generates the production of new tissues

In the case of biostimulation threads, the treatment can be carried out at an outpatient clinic without surgery or hospital admission, and the initial results are visible immediately. The final results will start to be visible after a couple of months.
For a thread face lift, the threads are inserted into the subcutaneous tissue with a very thin acupuncture needle and are woven together, stimulating the natural production of collagen during the resorption process. In general, they are placed without anaesthesia or local anaesthetic as they do not cause great discomfort. The treatment lasts less than 1 hour and the patient can generally return to normal activities. The threads with a lifting effect are resorbed about 6 months after placement, but the results remain for 12 to 18 months. The application of the threads requires small incisions in order to anchor them, which means that the procedure must be performed in a surgical environment.

Thread lifts: results and benefits

• swift return to daily activities after treatment
• the threads are completely bio-resorbable, biocompatible and do not cause rejection  
• the procedure is short (between 30 and 60 minutes)
• long-lasting effects, especially thread lifts (up to 18 months)
• thread lifts are used in the treatment of various areas of the face, such as the jaw, cheeks, cheekbones, neck and eyebrows
• fully compatible with other treatments such as botulinum toxin, platelet-rich plasma and hyaluronic acid

Thread lifts: side effects and contraindications

• misplacement of threads
• no effect due to one of the threads breaking

Due to these consequences and possible complications, there are some risk groups in which the use of this technique is not recommended.

Contraindications include:

• people who have undergone aesthetic treatment or surgery and are still recovering. They must wait to fully recover so as to prevent infection or side effects.
• patients being treated with anti-inflammatories or anticoagulants
• people with poor skin elasticity. In these cases, other treatments are recommended.

To make sure that you are suitable to undergo the treatment, the professional must:

• have your medical history
• evaluate the goals and expected results

Who should not undergo a thread face lift?
Most people can undergo this procedure as long as they are in good general health. It is also important to be realistic about what you expect.
In cases of severe loss of skin elasticity, a traditional facelift may be recommended in order to achieve a better result.
If you are prone to keloid scars or have problems with wound healing, the surgeon cannot recommend this procedure or should inform you in advance that scars may be visible in the case of traction and or anchoring threads.

Thread lifts: choosing your doctor

The best you can do is to rely on qualified and experienced professionals who will give you the best information and advice at all times. In general, this:

• will increase your confidence in the professional
• will clarify whether the treatment is the right choice

In addition, in order to avoid problems during the treatment, or if the results are not completely satisfactory, an outline description of what the final appearance might be after treatment should be requested.
Who can perform this treatment?
This 'non-surgical facelift' or 'biological facelift' can only be performed by experienced and qualified doctors and surgeons.

Thread lifts: side effects and risks

• allergic reaction to anaesthesia
• haematomas
• seromas
• mild infection
• in the case of traction or anchorage threads, the end of the thread can come out through the incision; the doctor can remedy this by simply shortening the protruding end
• wrinkles forming on the skin; the doctor massaging the area lightly might resolve the problem
• dissatisfaction with the results
• asymmetry
• see or feel the threads; in this case, the doctor will have to remove them and replace them with new ones
• needle insertion scars are minimal
• imperfections in the results depending on the patient's skin laxity

Thread lifts: what to do after treatment?

• it is possible to resume normal activities (walking, sitting, watching TV, using a computer, etc.) 1 hour after the procedure, but you should take some days off
• you should not talk, laugh or smile too much or make exaggerated facial movements during the first few days
• you should not sleep resting on your face for the first week
• you should not shave, use chemical peelings, rub or use strong soaps during the first week on the treated area
• you should avoid any exercise or strenuous activities during the first week
• you should not massage, rub or press your face for 1 month
• you should take the prescribed painkillers
• contact your doctor or health care professional immediately if you notice signs of infection or if you experience bleeding or sudden increase in pain
• possible side effects may include the risk of infection, redness, bruising and swelling that may last for 1 week. You can apply ice to relieve the discomfort on the treated area
• a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be used to protect the treated area from direct sunlight

Thread lifts: what other parts of the body can thread lifting be used on besides the face?
 

• abdomen
• thighs
• bikini line
• arms
• buttocks lifting without surgery

Thread face lifts are a procedure for facial rejuvenation and an alternative to traditional lifting surgery. For lifting without surgery, with less risk, and shorter recovery time.