What is a thread lift and will one be good for me?

There has been an explosion of interest in the use of cosmetic threads, as more options are now available for use in Australia. I have been using cosmetic threads in patients for the past 5 years, having had training with some of the world's top thread lifting doctors. I am excited to share what is new with you all!

But to start with, What are threads?

The threads we most often use made out of similar material to sutures we use to close wounds. These threads can be used to either tighten the skin or lift it, or both. The come usually preloaded into cannulas or very fine needles so we can get them under the skin. All threads now approved for use in Australia dissolve over time. The length of time this takes varies depending on the thread used and the individual patient.

Skin tightening threads

In this instance a number of very small threads (up to 50 of them) are used just under the skin. These threads stimulate collagen and are used for tightening and soften wrinkles. I love using these along the jawline and under the neck. You can even use tiny ones to tighten the skin under the eyes. The threads dissolved over time, leaving collagen in their place. I will often use a combination of skin tightening threads with PRP (platelet rich plasma) and the Heallite for a triple skin tightening and anti wrinkle treatment

Skin lifting threads

Then there are the larger threads we use to lift. These are thicker and often contain little cogs that are molded into the thread to help it grip to the tissue under the skin. These marvelous threads can be used to reposition skin that is falling southward and elevate it (and the fat pads) back where we want them to go. I use these in patients with early jowl formation, and to help elevate the cheeks and take pressure off the lower part of the face. 

Lifting threads can also be used to lift heavy eyebrows. They do not replace eyelid surgery, however when heavy lids are due to a heavy forehead, they can really open up the eyes.

A little known application of threads is to correct the angle of the nose. This is a safer way of non surgical nose surgery that does not carry the risk of using dermal filler in this region.

Ok that all sounds cool, but how do you actually do the procedure?

For tightening threads, we get our clients to apply a topical numbing cream 40 minutes before their appointment and then off we go. This little picture shows some of the threads still inside the needles sitting in the skin - when we pull the pink needles out, the thread stays behind. The procedure takes about 30 minutes.

For lifting threads, I take my time drawing on the face, making sure I know exactly where I want to place the threads and also make a plan of any anti wrinkle, skin tightening or dermal filler I may also want to use after the threads. I then use some very fine injections to completely numb the face where I want the threads to be inserted. Once the local is in, the procedure is very comfortable and some patients fall asleep (though maybe that is because they get bored with me talking…). The threads get inserted down small tubes called cannulas. The cannulas are removed, leaving the threads behind, then I lift the skin up where I want it to go and then trim the thread so it pops in under the skin. We allow an hour and a half for this treatment as I am a fussy perfectionist and take my time planning before the threads even get close to your skin. We will look after you and ply you with tea and bikkies to get you through. 

Who is the treatment suitable for?

While the idea of a ‘non surgical facelift’ appeals to many people, it is not a substitute for a facelift if you have significant excess skin and volume loss. It is ideal for patients in their 40s and 50s with early jowl formation or heavy marionette and nasolabial lines. It may be suitable for patients >60 years provided there is still firm skin and not too much loss of the fat pads in the cheek and area below the cheek line.

What are the side effects and down time of the procedure?

The most common effects are swelling and bruising which may take up to a week (sometimes 2 weeks) to resolve. For the first 1-2 days the threads will feel tight and possibly uncomfortable - paracetamol and cool compresses will help this. It is important to not have a thread lift just before a big event - give yourself a week for any swelling and bruising to resolve.

How long does it last?

You can expect 12-18 months benefit from your threads, often longer. The ongoing benefits we see are persisting skin tightening as the threads are making collagen as they dissolve. While it might sound great to have a permanent thread inserted, dissolving threads are much safer and more gentle.

Sounds awesome! How do I book?

A thread lift is best considered as part of a total face treatment plan. I will always see you for an appointment first to make sure the treatment is right for you and provide you with a full written plan and quote before we proceed with your booking. You can email us and we will get back to you with an appointment time, you can call or head online to book a cosmetic consultation.