Signs of aging manifest on the face in various ways. Some notice sagging skin, while others observe a loss of facial contour. Non-surgical procedures, such as the thread lift, offer an alternative for those seeking a rejuvenated appearance without undergoing traditional surgery.
But how does this treatment work? Who can benefit from it? And what are the expected results?
What is a thread lift?
Unlike surgical facelifts, the thread lift doesn’t require deep incisions or extended recovery times. The procedure involves inserting absorbable threads under the skin to lift and support sagging areas of the face. These threads stimulate the natural production of collagen, promoting a gradual improvement in skin firmness.
The threads used can be made of different materials, such as PDO (polydioxanone), PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), and PCL (polycaprolactone). Each offers specific benefits, but all are biodegradable and safe for the body.
How does the procedure work?
The thread lift is performed in a medical office under local anesthesia. Small threads are inserted under the skin using a fine needle. Once positioned, they pull the skin upward, providing an immediate lifting effect. Over time, the threads dissolve, and the body produces more collagen, prolonging the results.
The procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. Recovery is quick, allowing most patients to return to their activities the same day or the next.
Benefits of a thread lift
The number of people interested in the thread lift has grown, mainly due to the advantages it offers:
- Natural and progressive results: The lifting effect appears immediately after the procedure, but improvement continues in the following months due to collagen stimulation.
- Less invasive than surgery: Without extensive incisions or the need for hospitalization, the risk of complications is reduced.
- Quick recovery: Unlike traditional facelifts, which require weeks of recovery, most people can return to their routine within a few days.
- Improved skin texture: The produced collagen helps make the skin firmer and healthier-looking.
Which areas can be treated?
The thread lift can be applied to different parts of the face and neck. Some of the most treated areas include:
- Cheeks: To restore lost volume and lift the region.
- Jawline: To redefine the contour of the face and reduce sagging.
- Eyebrows: For a lifting effect that makes the eyes appear more open and rejuvenated.
- Neck: To smooth wrinkles and improve skin firmness.
Who is a candidate for a thread lift?
The thread lift is usually recommended for individuals who begin to notice skin sagging but do not yet need or desire surgical lifting. Patients between the ages of 30 and 50 are the most common candidates for this treatment.
The skin should not be excessively saggy for the threads to provide adequate support. Individuals with very deep wrinkles or significant excess skin may require more invasive alternatives to achieve the desired results.
How long do the effects last?
The results of a thread lift vary depending on the type of thread used, the patient’s metabolism, and post-procedure care. On average, the effects can last between 12 to 18 months, and can be extended with maintenance sessions.
Post-procedure care
Although recovery is quick, some recommendations help ensure better results:
- Avoid exaggerated facial expressions in the first few days.
- Sleep on your back to avoid pressing the treated area.
- Do not touch or massage the face to prevent thread displacement.
- Reduce intense exercise for at least a week.
Minor swelling and bruising may occur but usually disappear within a few days. If persistent pain or visible asymmetries occur, consult your doctor.
Thread lift vs. surgical facelift
The thread lift does not replace surgery for those seeking more long-lasting rejuvenation. The main difference between the two lies in the intensity of results and recovery time.
While surgery provides more significant and permanent changes, the thread lift caters to those wanting something less invasive, with a more subtle and natural effect.
Read more:
👉 How to minimize scars after a facelift
How much does a thread lift cost in the united states?
The cost of a thread lift varies depending on the clinic, the doctor’s experience, and the number of threads used. In the United States, the price can range between $1,500 and $4,500. Procedures in smaller areas, such as the eyebrows, are usually more affordable than treatments for the entire face and neck.
Is a thread lift worth it?
The thread lift appeals to those seeking a minimally invasive option to improve skin sagging without undergoing traditional surgery. The results are subtle but provide visible rejuvenation. Those seeking a more intense effect may need to combine the procedure with other treatments, such as dermal fillers and lasers.
To determine if this procedure is suitable, a consultation with a specialized plastic surgeon is the first step. In West Palm Beach, FL, the team at Illusions Plastic Surgery can offer a personalized evaluation to help choose the best treatment.
👉 Book your free consultation today in Illusions Plastic Surgery
