What is a Thread Lift?

April 11th, 2017 | Posted in: Face Lift | Tags: minimally invasive facelift

Invasive surgical options are often the first solution for many to reverse the signs of facial aging, however, with advancements in cosmetic procedures, an alternative way is possible. A thread lift is a minimally invasive facelift that can instantly tighten and lift areas compromised by volume loss and sagging such as the nasolabial folds, neck, cheeks, jowls, eyebrows, and eyelids. In some cases, it can also be implemented as a precursory procedure to a standard facelift as well as used in conjunction with a brow, chin, and face lift for an overall rejuvenated, relaxed, and natural looking appearance.

Is Thread Lift Right for Me?

One of the many benefits of this minimally invasive facelift procedure offers is the lack of downtime included in recovery. Patients between the ages of 35 to 45 with minimal to moderate signs of aging may lack the time needed to recover from a face lift and find a thread lift to be the ideal alternative. Younger patients with sagging cheeks and brows caused by weakened muscles, as well as patients relapsing from a face or neck lift may also be the right candidate for a thread lift. Many others for either personal or medical reasons will find a thread lift preferable because it is a non-invasive procedure. No matter the case, discussing the procedure’s benefits as well as your expectations with a qualified surgeon will best determine if it is the right choice for you.

What to Expect with a Minimally Invasive Facelift

A thread lift typically takes an hour to complete and because of this, is performed under a local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The procedure begins with the surgeon using a thin, hollow needle to insert threads (barbed sutures) under the skin and facial tissues. The barbs on the sutures then attach to the underlying skin to instantly tighten and lift problem areas while simultaneously causing inflammation. This stimulates collagen growth over time and helps reobtain naturally firm elasticity to the face. The upper section of the threads is also attached to a higher portion of the face to maintain the lift; multiple threads may be used depending on the surface area that needs elevation.

Are the Results Immediate?

A thread lift shows immediate results and achieves 30% to 70% of what an invasive facelift may achieve and well over 90% of patients report full satisfaction with their appearance. A thread lift has the potential to last three to five years and may be repeated. Many patients have also found success in combining a thread lift with other procedures such as a brow and chin lift.

What is the Recovery Process?

There is minimal downtime for a thread lift which allows patients to return home typically one hour after the procedure. Immediately following the procedure, the face may show signs of swelling and bruising that resolve after just a few days. There may also be numbness and mild pain, which can be treated with pain medication. A thread-lift surgeon may advise their patient to rest with their head elevated to reduce any swelling. It is also recommended to have a trusted individual look after the patient during the first 24 hours following the procedure.

Normal activities may be resumed a few to several days after the procedure, and depending on the patient’s occupation, should be able to return to work during this time. Cosmetic issues such as bruising can be covered up with light makeup, however contouring as well as rubbing the face should be avoided for up to three weeks after the procedure.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

While a thread lift is a type of minimally invasive facelift, it is still a delicate procedure that involves very fine surgical sutures. It is imperative that your surgeon of choice have a proficient understanding of the facial anatomy and the placement of the threads for the best lifting effect. If a neck or face lift is also required, finding a surgeon with experience in a variety of facial surgeries would be the ideal choice to deliver the aesthetic results you desire. Dr. Chiu provides both the knowledge and experience, as a highly qualified, board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Chiu will help you achieve all of your thread lift needs. Contact us today on getting started with a consultation.