Thread lifting is a non-surgical procedure that subtly but visibly tightens excess sagging skin. In just 30 minutes, without significant recovery time or scars, you can restore youthful facial contours.
Special biodegradable threads used in the treatment lift and tighten the skin immediately. Over time, they also stimulate collagen production, leading to further skin rejuvenation and tightening noticeable after about two months.
Areas Treated with Threads
Common treatments include:
- Brow lift
- Non-surgical ”cat eyes”
- Cheek contouring, nasolabial fold elimination, and smoothing lines around the mouth and chin
- Lifting drooping lips and raising the tip of the nose
- Tightening the lower face: neck, double chin, jawline
- Full facelift
- Balancing facial asymmetries
- Body treatments: tightening arms, stomach, and hips
When to Choose Threads Over Surgical Lifting
Threads are preferred for their quick recovery time and ease. Instead of general anesthesia, only a few small, painless needle pricks are needed to anesthetize the area. You can return to your routine immediately, with minor swelling or none at all. Precautions include avoiding rubbing the treated area, sleeping on your back, and gentle head movements for about a week.
The risk of bruising, scarring, bleeding, and similar complications is minimal. Threads can be removed if irritation occurs, restoring the skin to its previous state.
Threads are a simpler, more affordable option for most people. However, surgery is better for significantly sagging skin. Candidates should have realistic expectations, as threads lift the skin a few millimeters for a natural result and are suitable for mild to moderate sagging.
Ideal candidates are in their late 30s or early 40s, while most over 55 may need a surgical facelift. New methods combine surgical facelifts with threads, ideal for those who can’t undergo surgery for health reasons.
Results from threads can last 1.5 to 3 years, depending on age, skin condition, and the severity of the treated problem. Satisfied clients often repeat the procedure after a year to 1.5 years for longer-lasting results, postponing the need for surgical intervention.
Types of Threads
There are different types of threads used for various problems. Most are biodegradable and resorb within a few months. Non-resorbable threads are used for limited indications. Treatment effectiveness depends on the choice of threads and the technique, highlighting the importance of an experienced aesthetic medicine doctor.
Limitations and Combining with Other Treatments
For those in their 50s, a thread lift may be less feasible, requiring a doctor’s evaluation. While threads lift and tighten the skin, they don’t address surface issues like acne, scars, wrinkles, or uneven pigmentation.
Thus, thread treatments are often combined with other procedures like lipotransfer, chemical peels, and mesotherapy for comprehensive results.