What is driving the demand for thread lifts?
In the past, a surgical facelift was often seen as the only effective solution for eliminating sagging in the face. Minimally invasive treatments and fillers offered some relief, but could not completely resolve the problem. However, not everyone is ready or suitable for surgery, and an increasing number of patients are not willing to accept the downtime of a facelift . This explains the increasing demand for non-surgical alternatives such as thread lifting. The procedure bridges the gap between minimally invasive rejuvenation methods and surgical procedures, offering a middle ground for those who want facial rejuvenation without extensive surgery.
What is a thread lift?
Thread lifting uses (usually) absorbable threads to tighten the skin and deeper tissue, which are inserted through the skin with a needle. The short-term lifting effect on the deeper tissue is limited by the effectiveness of the small barbs or cones for suspending the fat compartments and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS).
Collagen stimulation
The breakdown of collagen as we age leads to thinner, weaker soft tissue in the face, which tends to sag. The threads primarily stimulate collagen production , which is crucial for maintaining the firmness, volume and elasticity of the tissue, resulting in a certain lifting effect. This gradual process leads to a continuous rejuvenation of the facial tissue and improves its elasticity and firmness. Although the body’s own healing response is triggered by the presence of the threads as they gradually dissolve (which is the driving force behind the increased collagen production), the small size of the threads ensures that you generally feel no discomfort after healing.
Targeted areas for a thread lift
A thread lift is often used by people to treat areas of the face that sag or lose firmness with age. These areas usually include:
- Neck
- Jawline
- cheeks
Who is suitable for a thread lift?
The thread lift does not require any incisions in the skin. It is intended for patients with mild signs of ageing, slight sagging and decreasing collagen content in the skin. An essential prerequisite for thread lifting is that the skin is neither too thick nor too thin. Although thread lifting is not a substitute for a surgical facelift, it is an acceptable alternative for selected people with mild signs of sagging in the face who want to or should avoid invasive surgery.
Types of threads
I offer a wide range of three types of absorbable sutures from leading manufacturers: Aptos, Silhouette Soft® from Sinclair and Princess® from Croma-Pharma. Silhouette Soft® sutures are made of PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) and have a resorption time of approximately 6-12 months, while the effects on collagen production last up to 24 months. Although their knot and cone system (cones) is said to provide strong tissue support, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support this claim. Aptos™ threads, which are made from PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) and PCL (polycaprolactone), have a resorption time of 18-24 months. These threads efficiently stimulate collagen production, especially in terms of structural support of the skin, and they can also increase elastin. The Aptos threads have several barbs per centimeter, which provide short-term fixation in the tissue and stimulate collagen production through minor tissue abrasions. The Princess® threads are made of PDO (polydioxanone) and have a shorter resorption time of 6 months. The collagen stimulating effects last up to 24 months. Ultimately, the choice between the different threads depends on individual preferences and the range of different thread types for different indications.
Procedure
A thread lift is performed on an outpatient basis. Before the treatment, the areas to be treated are disinfected and the skin is anesthetised. Only a local anesthetic is required for the thread lift. During the treatment, the threads are carefully inserted under the skin using a thin needle. The entire procedure usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Once the threads are in place, the needles are removed and you may feel a slight pressure or pulling sensation under the skin.
Result
The downtime after a successful thread lift is usually minimal. Although swelling, bruising and minor skin irregularities may be visible at first, you can often return to work the very next day. The first results are visible immediately after the threads are inserted, and further improvements may occur in the months following the procedure. It is important to know that the collagen-stimulating effect of a thread lift is not permanent and only lasts for 1 to 2 years. After the procedure, you can resume your normal routine, but we recommend avoiding facial massage for a week. It is also advisable to avoid sauna visits and sports for the first week after the thread lift.
If you would like to delve deeper into the world of thread lifting or explore customized options, contact me and get your rejuvenated look!