Thread lifts are the alternatives to invasive face lift surgeries. Thread lifts are done by inserting barbed threads or sutures made of inert and non-dissolvable materials into the tissues underneath facial integument or skin. The threads are pulled away from the slack skin to tighten it and are then anchored into the skin by tiny “teeth†found at the opposite end. It is a fairly simple and easy procedure which can be done in less than an hour, prompting surgeons to call it the “weekend facelift†or “lunchtime facelift.â€
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One of the benefits of thread lifts is that it involves little downtime for patients. The procedure itself and the subsequent recovery period seldom take more than a few days. That’s because it is less invasive than the traditional facelift, meaning it requires only a small incision to insert the threads. And because the wound is small, the possibility of scarring is minimized or eliminated altogether.
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Thread lifts, however, are not without risks or complications. The fact that it is a relatively new procedure means that its methods and techniques are still being perfected. There are only a few surgeons skilled enough to practice the installation of thread lifts. And some don’t adhere strictly to candidate selection protocols and, as a result, people who aren’t qualified to undergo the procedure end up getting thread lifts with many not getting the results that they wanted. These people, predictably, project the blame onto the procedure, which is undeserved.
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Some patients have noticed that the threads are visible beneath their skin. This is especially true for thin-skinned patients. However, this is the direct result of poor patient selection and the low skill level of the operating physician.
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Thread lifts are not the cure-all that some of its proponents claim it is. The procedure can only fix facial features that exhibit minimal signs of aging. The ideal age is between mid-thirties to early forties. This is the age when most people notice small amounts of sagging facial and neck skin. Thread lifts are not meant for people who wish to have big improvements on their facial features. As such, people who don’t manage their expectations and goals regarding thread lifts end up getting disappointed with the results.
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Some surgeons have noted a slight thread migration, only on rare cases, on people with thread lifts. The cause of this is unclear, but the result can be quite ugly. Migrating threads cause an asymmetrical look, but this complication can easily be reversed by removing and reinserting the threads into a firmer and more permanent position. Another rare complication is dimpling of the skin. Again, the causes are unknown and the situation is easily remedied by removal and reinsertion of the barbed sutures.
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Then there is the risk of infection. Even though the incisions are small, they are still open wounds and are vulnerable to infections. Complications that may arise include slight scarring and a slight swelling of the wound, accompanied by a measure of pain. Patients can take medication to control the infection and to help the pain and swelling subside. Patients may also experience localized lack of sensitivity or numbness on the procedure area but this will subside within a few weeks after the surgery.
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Thread lifts can be very useful for the right candidate. Although the methodology is still under development, it is constantly being improved since many opt to have thread lifts done. The constant practice of the procedure, coupled with proper candidate selection, should keep the complications and risks to a minimum. But by far, the most important thing to remember is to manage your expectations and limit your goals to what the procedure can currently achieve. After all, liposuction received the same cynicism when it was first introduced but has since grown to become the world’s most widely used cosmetic surgery procedure.
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To find out more about Thread Lifts and other cosmetic surgery procedures, visit Costhetics .
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