Thread lift is a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation procedure that can provide anti-aging benefits such as facial contouring, wrinkle reduction, and skin tightening without surgery. The results of a thread lift are immediate and can last from 6 months to 2 years depending on the particular aesthetic goals and the type of thread used.
It is important to note that the longevity of the results of a thread lift may depend on various factors such as the biology of the patient, the number of threads used, the technique used, and the aftercare.
As with any facial enhancement procedure, the aesthetic results will gradually fade over time and a touch-up may be needed to maintain the desired look.
What is the downside of a thread lift?
Thread lifts are a type of minimally invasive facial procedure used to proactively makeup for the signs of aging. While thread lifts can be a great solution for people who would like to avoid more invasive facial plastic surgeries, such as facelifts or various injectable fillers, there are certain downsides that should be considered before determining if a thread lift is right for you.
One of the most significant downsides to getting a thread lift is the potential for a lopsided face. Thread lifts are intended to provide an even amount of lift to the face and neck, however, it is not uncommon for them to create an imbalance in tissue tightness.
This can create an asymmetrical appearance.
Another downside to thread lifts is the short-term nature of the procedure. Although thread lifts come with minimal downtime, their effects are not permanent, with results lasting anywhere from six months to two years.
This means that maintaining results may require repeating the procedure multiple times and could become costly.
Finally, depending on the type of thread being used for the lift, infections are possible to develop at the site of the incisions made by your surgeon. Needles and sutures used with Thread lifts are very different from those used during traditional facelifts and as such, infection risks can be greater.
For all these reasons, it is important to thoroughly weigh the pros and cons of these procedures and make an informed decision with your physician prior to undergoing the procedure.
Do thread lifts cause sagging?
No, thread lifts do not cause sagging. Thread lifts are a minimally invasive procedure used to reposition drooping facial skin in order to create a more youthful and contoured appearance. The threads used are a type of absorbable surgical suture made from Polydioxanone (PDO) and are crafted with tiny barbs or “cogs”.
These barbs are placed along the thread to help “anchor” the underlying tissues. The threads create a suspension for the tissues, lifting and tightening them. While the threads will dissolve within several months, the tissues remain suspended, providing a lift that may last upwards of 18 months.
Thus, a thread lift does not cause sagging; instead, the tiny barbs act like an internal scaffold, lifting and tightening the weakened tissue to help create a more youthful appearance.
Are there long term side effects of thread lift?
Yes, there can be long-term side effects of thread lifts. These can include the following:
1. Infection: If a thread lift is not properly performed or if it is performed using unsterilized instruments, there is a risk of infection at the site of the lift. This can cause redness, swelling, and pain, as well as tissue damage.
2. Threads Breaking: As the skin ages, it can become more difficult to lift and suspend it properly. If the threads used for the lift are too thin or weak, or become loose, they can break, or move out of place.
This can cause drooping and sagging of the skin in the treated area.
3. Nerve Damage: During the process of inserting the threads, there is a risk of damaging the delicate facial nerves. Damage can range from temporary pain or numbness to permanent loss of sensation.
4. Skin Damage: If too much force is used during the thread lift procedure, it can result in small cuts, bruising, or discoloration of the skin.
It is important to consult a qualified and experienced doctor when considering any cosmetic procedure, such as a thread lift, to reduce the risk of complications and long-term side effects.
What happens when thread lift wears off?
When a thread lift wears off, the effects it had on the skin will be reversed. It usually takes about a year for the collagen to start breaking down, causing the skin to lose some of its tightness, wrinkles to start reappearing, and the original skin laxity to return.
Depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient’s own anatomy, some of the results may last longer. If a patient had a full treatment with multiple sutures, the results may last a little longer than someone who received only minimal treatment.
However, it is important for patients to take into consideration the need for ongoing maintenance with treatment like thread lift in order to maintain their desired look. It is important to follow a good skincare routine and to speak to a qualified provider to discuss any further treatments they may need to maintain their desired look.
Is thread lift worth it?
The thread lift procedure is a relatively new type of facial rejuvenation procedure, and depending on your individual needs and cosmetic goals, it may be worth it. The thread lift procedure involves using temporary sutures to reposition and lift the skin, and can help to create smoother, more youthful-looking features.
It can also help soften wrinkles, reduce the look of jowls and sagging skin, reduce fat deposits in the face, and create a more lifted and contoured appearance.
The thread lift procedure has many benefits, including: it’s minimally invasive, essentially painless, and generally requires no downtime; results may be seen immediately or gradually; it is cost-effective relative to other non-surgical procedures or surgical procedures; and it can be customized to specific needs.
However, it is important to note that the results of the thread lift procedure are not permanent and will be lost over time. Therefore, if you are looking for longer lasting results, you may wish to consider other non-surgical or surgical facial rejuvenation options.
Ultimately, you should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine if the thread lift procedure is the best facial rejuvenation option for your needs. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and make the best decision for you.
Can PDO thread lift go wrong?
Yes, there is a risk of complications when it comes to PDO thread lifts. These are caused by the invasive nature of the procedure, as the threads are inserted directly into the skin. Complications may include thread knotting, scarring, infection, nerve damage, lumps, inflammation and uneven results.
In rare cases, there has been reports of necrosis (tissue death) due to poor thread placement. It is important to choose an experienced and qualified practitioner to minimize your risks.
How painful is thread lift?
Thread lifts are minimally invasive and shouldn’t cause too much pain. Most people who get them only report feeling minor discomfort. During the procedure, an anaesthetic will be used to minimise any pain.
This can be done either topically or by injection depending on the type of thread lift you are getting. After the procedure, some people may experience mild discomfort and swelling. Over-the-counter pain medications such as Ibuprofen can be used to relieve any discomfort.
The thread lift procedure usually takes less than an hour and the recovery period is shorter than most other cosmetic procedures. Any swelling, discomfort, or bruising typically resolves within a few days.
Generally, people experience minimal pain during and after a thread lift and can go back to their usual activities within a few days.
How often can you repeat thread lift?
The thread lift is a semi-permanent treatment and the results can last for up to two years depending on your age and lifestyle. However, the effects can diminish over time, and so it is possible to repeat the treatment for a boost or for more dramatic results.
It is generally recommended to wait 12-18 months between treatments to allow for healing and for the previous results to settle. Depending on the individual, it may be possible to repeat the procedure sooner than this, but it is important to discuss your expectations with your practitioner to ensure the results you desire are achievable.
What age should you get a thread lift?
It is recommended to wait until the later stages of your twenties and early thirties to contemplate the procedure, as this can usually be the timing when skin laxity begins to become more evident due to aging.
Thread lifts are a form of facial rejuvenation and it is beneficial to select a qualified and experienced surgeon. They will assess skin elasticity and individual anatomy and offer insights into the best age to receive a thread lift.
Any underlying concerns such as skin laxity, sagging, or decreased volume should also be taken into account when determining when to receive the procedure. Many surgeons may also recommend to leave the procedure until at least 40, when the effects of the aging process become more noticeable.
Ultimately, age should never be a definitive factor and will depend on the individual.
Does your skin sag after PDO threads?
No, skin does not typically sag after PDO threads have been used. PDO threads are a minimally invasive procedure that provides lifting and volumizing results in the skin. The threads encourage collagen production, resulting in an improved texture, elasticity and firmness in the skin.
PDO threads also act as scaffolding that supports the sagging skin and neck tissues, restoring them to a natural youthful position. Additionally, the threads give structure to the skin and provide volume to the area being treated.
The threads can be tailored to the patient’s aesthetic needs, aiming to give a more contoured, youthful appearance without the need for invasive surgical procedures. While results may vary based on the individual, PDO threads generally do not result in increased saggy skin.
Does threading have any side effects?
Threading can have a number of side effects, depending on each individual person’s skin and sensitivity level. Common side effects of threading include reddening, swelling, red bumps and scabbing. For people with sensitive skin, threading may cause irritation and even bruising or breakouts.
Threading can also cause minor skin damage and in some cases, result in ingrown hairs.
It is important to note that the practitioner should use sterile threads in order to prevent bacteria transfer. In addition, it is also important to use gentle, light touches when threading, as too much pressure can cause skin tearing.
Therefore, it is important to choose an experienced threading practitioner who is familiar with the delicate process of threading.
If you experience any negative side effects from threading, it is important to speak to your practitioner or a dermatologist. This will help to ensure that you receive proper care and avoid any further reactions to threading.
What are the complications of PDO smooth threads?
PDO (Polydioxanone) smooth threads are suture threads that are used in facial threading treatments, and can be inserted under the skin to provide lifting and tightening certain areas of the face. Although there are many benefits of this treatment, there are some complications associated with it.
The most commonly reported complication of PDO smooth threads is bruising, swelling, and temporary redness. In the first few days after the treatment, it is normal to experience some redness and swelling, but this should minimize within a few days.
Bruising can occur in rare cases, depending on the individual patient.
Other complications of PDO smooth threads include infection, asymmetry, risk of nerve damage, and thread migration. Infection is extremely rare, but can occur if the patient does not follow post-treatment instructions such as keeping the area clean.
Asymmetry can occur if the threads are not evenly placed or if the amount of threads used is uneven, either of which can make one side of the face appear different than the other. Risk of nerve damage can result if the threads are not inserted correctly, or if they are too tight, as this can cause nerve irritation and discomfort.
Lastly, thread migration can occur if the threads shift from their original position before they can be dissolved by the body.
Overall, PDO smooth threads provide a safe and effective alternative to more invasive facial treatments, but it is still important to consult with a qualified professional and weigh the potential risks before undergoing the procedure.
