Thread-Lift

PDO stimulates the production of new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin which is vital for skin health restoration. The PDO threads are inserted into the different layers of the skin through a needle or a cannula. Once inserted, the threads anchor and lift the skin upwards causing an artificial wound, inducing a healing effect which with time will cause a further lifting effect and will also improve the skin quality. Different types lengths and thicknesses of thread are used for different areas of the face. In order to harmonise, recontour and lift the facial tissue, a combination of different types of threads (size and thickness variations) are used in one procedure.

PDO threads have a three-dimensional benefit to the treated area:

• Instant skin lifting through mechanical effects
• Cellular renewal through collagen stimulation
• Skin tightening by contracting fat tissue

The PDO thread lift procedure is designed according to each individual’s needs and requirements. For skin and facial tissue lifting, a combination of barbed threads of different thicknesses and lengths are inserted through 3-4 entry points. The 360° Helical Barbs PDO threads have multi-directional barbs which fix and support the skin tissue in various directions and are appropriate for non-surgical face and neck lift procedures. The non-barbed PDO threads are designed for rejuvenation (improving skin texture and wrinkles), volumising, and even reducing fat.

The thread lift procedure is most commonly performed on the face, neck, and under-eye area. At FACEMED, thread lift procedures are always performed in combination with Platelet Rich Plasma therapy (PRP) to stimulate as much collagen as possible and promote procedure longevity. The superior healing qualities of PRP therapy work to enhance the overall procedure outcome.

The Thread Lift procedure is most successful in relatively younger people with limited skin sagging. The aim is to reposition your facial anatomy back to where it once was, revealing a more youthful appearance. People with a greater degree of sagging and skin laxity will be referred in-house for a surgical face and/or neck lift. To maximise the effect and longevity of the thread lift result, muscle relaxant treatment to the lower face will be administered two weeks prior to the procedure. The combined effect is generally more aesthetically pleasing than either procedure performed on its own.

The lasting result of the thread lift depends on individual skin type and underlying tissue. To maintain the result, threads can be inserted periodically depending on the effects of the ageing process on the face. By combining muscle relaxants with dermal fillers, the result will be improved and maintained for a longer period.

Bruising will generally occur depending on the types of threads used and areas treated. Expect some mild swelling and soreness for 3 to 5 days after the procedure and a sensation of facial tightness for up to 2 weeks. Temporary mild dimpling of the skin can also occur. Scarring is very rare and resolves with time. More serious side effects, though very rare, can occur. These include infection, nerve damage, the formation of nodules, and damage to the salivary ducts. The face has a very complex anatomical structure, so intimate anatomical knowledge is required to perform a PDO thread lift well and avoid serious side effects. The side effects are mostly manageable—removal of threads may be required in very rare cases such as migration and extrusion. There is no scarring after removal, and the problems can be resolved completely.

The cost of the treatment varies and depends on different factors such as age, sex, skin tone, expectation, and combination of other treatments required. An estimate will be given on the day of the consultation based on a personalised treatment plan.