Thread lift is a noninvasive, nonsurgical procedure that uses dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten sagging skin. It is mainly used on the face, neck, and other body parts to create a more youthful appearance. This article will discuss the procedure, steps involved, benefits, and recovery in detail.

How Does A Thread Lift Treatment Work?

• A fine needle or cannula inserts threads with cones and barbs under the skin.
• The threads are hooked onto the tissue, immediately pulling it upwards, thus lifting the skin.
• Over time, these threads stimulate collagen production, resulting in skin firmness even after the threads dissolve in 6-12 months.

Types of Threads That are Used 

• The most common type of thread used is PDO or Polydioxanone. It dissolves in 6 months and stimulates collagen.
• PLLA, or Poly-L-Lactic Acid, is long-lasting and encourages collagen production.
• The thread which lasts the longest with strong collagen-boosting effects is PCL or polycaprolactone.

What Are The Benefits?

• The lifting effect is instant.
• It is a non-invasive procedure.
• Downtime is only 1-2 days, providing quick recovery.
• Improved collagen production improved skin over time.
• It can be combined with other procedures like Botox or fillers.
• It is customisable and can be used to target one specific area like the jawline, cheeks, etc.
• Unlike some other procedures, it can be reversed and adjusted as needed if you are not satisfied with the results, unlike some other procedures, where changes are permanent.
• It can also delay surgery by providing tight, good-looking skin, saving you from going under the knife.
• It is a low-risk and safe procedure, as threads PDO, PLLA, and PCL are approved by medical authorities and are biodegradable.
• It is a quick procedure that takes between 30-60 minutes.
• The results/improvements are immediate and improve over time as collagen production improves.
• It is perfect for individuals in their 40s and 50s looking for a subtle, natural-looking lift.

Common Areas That Are Treated 

• Face: under eyes, cheeks, brows, and jawline.
• Neck: double chin, sagging skin.
• Body: Abdomen, arms, and buttocks.

Steps Involved in The Procedure

• Consultation and planning are the first steps. The doctor evaluates your skin type, concerns, and goals, which helps determine the best thread type to use and its placement.
• In the next steps, your skin is cleansed to prevent infection, and a numbing cream is applied to the area to be treated to minimise the pain.
• In the third step, the thread is inserted in the target area, pulling up the skin and immediately tightening it.
• After the procedure, the doctor will instruct you on the aftercare process. You may feel some swelling or bruising, but these aftereffects resolve on their own within a week.
• Last is the recovery and results. The immediate and quick results can be seen right after the procedure. In the next 3-6 months, your skin’s elasticity and texture will improve due to increased collagen production. The threads used are biodegradable and will naturally dissolve in 6-12 months, but the improvement will continue for the next 12-18 months.

Conclusion

Thread lift treatment, as explained above, is a quick fix for sagging or loose skin, providing instant results. Consulting a doctor is of immense importance, and getting to know what works best for your skin type is equally important. It is non-invasive and cost-effective.