Thread lifts may be used as a new mechanism to treat skin sagging issues, especially since it is a non-surgical procedure that gives the skin a more youthful appearance. So, what is this technique? And what are its most important features? Follow us in this article to learn about it in detail, in addition to the potential side effects.
What is a Thread Lift?
Thread lifts are a non-surgical technique that relies on stimulating the production of collagen in the skin by placing medical threads under the skin in specific areas. This can eliminate skin sagging and skin aging, especially since these threads stimulate the skin's ability to recover.
Read also: Non-surgical face lift techniques
Types of Threads for Face Lifts
There are a number of types used when performing this procedure, and they can be divided into several types based on the types of threads used and the material they are made from, while they are divided into other types based on the areas where the threads will be placed:
Areas for Thread Placement
Threads can be divided and placed in 4 areas of the face. These areas include:
- Cat or fox eye threads, which refer to the technique used to lift the eyebrows to create a cat-eye shape, as the name suggests.
- Eyebrow lift thread, which is a thread used to lift the sagging around the eyebrow area and tighten the surrounding skin.
- Nose lift threads, where threads are placed in specific areas of the nose and the surrounding area to eliminate sagging.
- Neck lift threads, to achieve a taut neck free of sagging skin.
Types of Threads According to the Material Used
The type of threads used for the procedure varies regardless of the area where the procedure will be performed, and these threads can be divided into:
- PDO threads, also known as collagen threads, are absorbable threads that can be absorbed into the body. They have a great ability to stimulate collagen, which helps restore the shape of the face, and do not cause any side effects as they are completely absorbed.
- PLA threads, which are polylactic acid threads, have the ability to stimulate the production of certain substances, namely elastin and collagen. These elements are known for their ability to increase skin elasticity and tightness, and they can be absorbed by the skin.
- Caprolactone acid (PCA) threads, which are similar to PLA threads and work with the same mechanism.
Read also: Face lift injections and their results
Who Can Undergo the Procedure
There are a number of people who are eligible for this type of procedure, but it is most suitable for those who suffer from:
- Signs of aging and skin sagging, especially people between the ages of 30 and early 50s.
- Those who do not wish to undergo surgical facelift.
- Those who have previously undergone facelifts and wish to maintain the results of the procedure.
- People who cannot undergo a facelift due to any medical reasons or other reasons.
- People who suffer from blood pressure, diabetes, and heart diseases.
Thread Lift Procedure
The procedure can be divided into a number of stages, some of which occur before the procedure and some during the procedure itself. What happens during these stages can be described as follows:
Before the Procedure
The doctor will discuss the steps that will be taken during the procedure, and what to expect, in addition to clarifying the side effects of the procedure, knowing that the procedure generally does not require general anesthesia, and the doctor may ask you to do a set of other things based on your condition.
During the Procedure
The procedure relies on the use of local anesthesia, which will be applied to the area to be treated, and then the doctor will do the following:
- Clean the face with alcohol, then apply local anesthetic.
- Use specific types of very thin needles inserted under the skin to insert the threads. For this reason, the procedure does not take more than 45 minutes, and may take less time, about half an hour.
- After inserting the threads, the doctor will remove the thin needles that were used, and this may only take a few minutes.
Thread Face Lift Results
Results may appear as soon as the threads are in place, but a significant difference can be noticed after several days or weeks of thread placement. It should be noted that the effect of these threads is not permanent and disappears once the threads dissolve.
How long do threads last in the face?
Are you wondering how long the effect of face lift threads lasts? The duration varies depending on the type of threads used, their material, and the injection site. For example, PDO threads can last for approximately one year, while PCA threads can last for two to five years.
Read also: Natural and Medical Face Lift Methods
What are the disadvantages of thread face lift?
It is normal for some side effects to appear when placing lifting threads, but they are usually not a cause for concern. The person who underwent the procedure may experience some side effects, but these are uncommon, including:
- Mild pain, which appears in the areas where the threads were placed and injected.
- Possibility of mild bleeding, but this is an uncommon effect.
- Mild bruising.
- Swelling in the injection areas.
In addition to the possibility of an allergic reaction as a serious complication, headache and pain under the skin may be felt, along with a feeling of tightness at the injection site and the possibility of infection.
Lumps after thread face lift
Lumps and swelling may appear at the injection site as an uncommon complication of the procedure, but they are not a cause for concern as long as the swelling does not last for more than 48 hours.
The threads may also move from their place, which may lead to the appearance of these lumps. These are complications that should be paid attention to and a doctor should be consulted if they do not disappear.
Read also: Laser Face Lift: Advantages and Disadvantages
Instructions after thread face lift
There are instructions that must be followed, especially to reduce swelling and bruising that occur after the procedure, so the following is done:
- Use cold compresses, which are known for their soothing effect on bruises and swelling.
- Take the medications prescribed by the doctor, especially antibiotics, to avoid infection.
- The sleeping position after facial threads should be correct, by reclining on the bed with pillows under the head, and sleeping on your side should be avoided for several weeks after the procedure.
Prohibitions after facial threads
A number of actions are prohibited immediately after the procedure and for some time. The most important things to avoid are:
- The face should not be rubbed, especially the areas where injections were given.
- Do not wash the face for 24 hours.
- Avoid using cosmetics, which should not be used for several days.
- Avoid using skin moisturizers for several weeks.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for at least a week.
- Stay away from sauna devices and do not use them for a period of time.
Can facial threads be removed?
Threads can be removed several months after the procedure, specifically within the first 3 months of the procedure, either partially or completely.
Thread lifts can be the ideal method for some people who want to achieve firm skin, but it is essential to choose a doctor with the skill and experience to perform this procedure completely and correctly, which reduces the chances of side effects.
If you are looking for the best doctor for a thread lift, you can contact the L'ORO Clinic team, where you can book your appointment to discuss the treatment plan. Book your appointment now.