Is thread lifting an alternative to facelifting?

Is thread lifting an alternative to facelifting?

Essential Aesthetics
February 7, 2022

A thread lift, also known as a “Lunchtime facelift,” is a minimally invasive procedure that aims at facial rejuvenation rather than lifting. Thread lifts are a great non-surgical option for tightening sagging in certain areas of the face. A thread lift is actually a nonsurgical aesthetic procedure that aims to lift and tighten sagging facial skin without the need for surgery. During a thread lift, small, dissolvable sutures or threads are inserted under the skin using a thin needle or cannula. These threads have small cones, hooks, or barbs that help to anchor the skin and lift it upward.

How does a thread lift work?

A special polydioxanone, PDO, threads are used to pull up and tighten sagging skin. These special barb sutures mildly reposition the sagging area of skin and soft tissue to improve facial contour.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the threads are strategically placed to lift and reposition the targeted areas of the face, such as the cheeks, jowls, eyebrows, or neck. The threads create a supportive structure that provides a lifting effect, helping to improve the appearance of sagging skin and restore facial contours.

What is the potential benefit of Thread lifts?

  • Facial Tightening: The threads provide an immediate lifting effect, helping to tighten and firm the skin.
  • Collagen Stimulation: The insertion of threads into the skin stimulates collagen production, which can improve skin texture and elasticity over time.
  • Natural Results: The results of a thread lift can appear subtle and natural compared to more invasive surgical procedures.

    Thread lifts are a non-surgical procedure; the results are subtle, temporary, and repeated maintenance is needed.

    What are the side effects of thread lifts?

    Common side effects may include bruising, swelling, and redness. One of the most common complaints about thread lifts is the unevenness of the results, as well as the need for repeated maintenance and possible thread displacement. The PDO threads eventually dissolve, but the collagen production stimulated by the procedure can contribute to longer-lasting improvements in the skin’s appearance. PA Ellie DMSc, will conduct a thorough, half-hour consultation with our patients to assess their suitability for a thread lift, taking into account their individual goals and requirements.

    Who is the right candidate for a thread lift?

    The ideal patient candidates are between their early 30s to mid-40s and are just beginning to notice skin sagginess. I used to perform PDO Threads for my patients, but due to minor and temporary improvement results, skin unevenness, and high patient expectations decided to use other methods to address mild to moderate skin laxity and sagginess.

    Can I replace the facelift with a Thread facelift?

    As we age, we lose facial fat, muscle, bone density, and ligaments. Our tissue loosens with age; therefore, a surgical facelift is necessary to pull and reposition the ligaments with permanent or absorbable sutures. Facelift surgical option repairs multiple layers of laxity and is not replaceable with a Thread lift. For this procedure, the ideal candidate would be someone between the ages of 35 and 55 who possesses adequate bone and tissue support.

    What other non-surgical options are available to get rid of sagging skin?

    Energy-based tightener devices such as radiofrequency that will heat up the tissue are another routes to get rid of jowls and loose skin. Microneedling such as Legend pro+, Ultherapy, and ThermiTight can help improve skin laxity and stimulate collagen production. Dermal fillers, Juvéderm, and relaxing neurotoxins, such as Botox, can reduce minor sagging and restore lost volume as well.

    Schedule Your Non-Surgical Aesthetic Treatment Today

    You’ve had your surgery, and now it is time to address your other skin concerns to complete your look. Call or text us at 925.855.1773 or request a consultation online to schedule your appointment.