Thread Lifting

Thread Lifting for a Stunning Look: What is it and is it Safe?

A well-shaped and beautiful face is a look that many people desire. However, not everyone is willing to undergo surgery to achieve it. With the continuous advancement of medical technology, several non-surgical face-lifting techniques have been developed. One of the most effective and satisfying methods is thread lifting, which has gained immense popularity for its ability to provide desired results without the need for surgery.

Thread lifting is a non-invasive procedure that helps lift and tighten the skin, improving facial contours and creating a youthful appearance. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a more defined jawline, lifted cheeks, or a smoother, firmer face. With this technique, the results are often immediate and can last for several months, making it a preferred option for many.

What is Thread Lifting?

Thread lifting is a procedure where dissolvable threads with barbs are inserted into the skin using a needle. The skin is then lifted along the threads in the direction the threads are inserted, with the barbs working like small hooks to pull the skin upward. This method can be used to shape the face, lift sagging skin, tighten the face, or even enhance the nose by making it appear more defined and sculpted.

In this article, we will explore the steps involved in thread lifting, its benefits, potential side effects, and precautions you should consider before undergoing this procedure. For those who are interested in thread lifting but are unsure where to go, we have some helpful tips to guide you in your decision-making process.

What Does Thread Lifting Help With?

Thread lifting has become a popular treatment for a wide range of facial concerns, thanks to its ability to address multiple issues in one procedure. Here’s what thread lifting can help with:

• Face Slimming & Contouring: Thread lifting can be used to reshape the face and make it appear slimmer by lifting sagging areas and creating more defined contours.
• Lift & Tighten Sagging Cheeks: It helps to restore firmness and lift the cheeks, giving a more youthful appearance.
• Nose Enhancement: Thread lifting can also be used to enhance the nose, giving it a more pronounced and sculpted appearance.
• Reduce Wrinkles & Boost Collagen Production: Thread lifting stimulates collagen production beneath the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting smoother and firmer skin.

Who is Thread Lifting Suitable For?

While thread lifting can effectively address a variety of facial concerns, not everyone may be suitable for this procedure. It is essential for the procedure to be evaluated and recommended by a qualified doctor based on the individual’s facial issues. So, who is thread lifting suitable for? Here are some key indicators:

• Those looking for facial lifting and contouring to achieve a slimmer face.
• People with sagging cheeks and wrinkles, particularly around the lower face.
• Individuals who do not wish to undergo surgery.
• People looking for immediate results.
• Those with sagging lower cheeks who wish to achieve a firmer, more lifted appearance.

After undergoing a thread lifting procedure, patients will notice tighter, firmer skin because the threads stimulate collagen production and enhance blood circulation to the skin.

Moreover, thread lifting can be combined with other procedures such as fillers, Botox, or HIFU for even better results. However, it is important to consult with a qualified doctor before undergoing any of these treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness.Is Thread Lifting Dangerous?

For many people considering thread lifting to rejuvenate their appearance and tighten their skin, the question of safety often arises. It’s important to know that if you choose to use FDA-approved, dissolvable threads and undergo the procedure under the care of an experienced doctor, the risks are minimal and the results can be very satisfactory. Thread lifting threads dissolve over a period of 6 to 18 months without posing any risk to the body.

The barbs on the threads immediately lift and tighten the skin once inserted, and the effects are visible immediately. The threads themselves are made from materials such as PDO (Polydioxanone), PLLA (Polylactate), and PCL (Polycaprolactone), all of which are FDA-approved for safety in both Thailand and abroad. These threads are designed to completely dissolve without leaving any metal residues, only leaving behind elastin, which supports the skin’s firmness.

For individuals with hollow or sunken cheeks, thread lifting can also be used to lift fat and restore volume. When performed by a skilled practitioner using the correct technique, the risk of bruising or swelling can be minimized.

Precautions to Consider Before Thread Lifting

While thread lifting is generally safe, there are a few precautions to be aware of:

• Skin infections or inflammations in the area to be treated.
• Allergic reactions to the materials used in the threads (this should be assessed by the doctor beforehand).
• Allergic reactions to anesthesia, particularly for individuals who have never had dental anesthesia before—patients should notify their doctor.
• Bleeding disorders (the doctor will assess the suitability of thread lifting in these cases).
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: It’s recommended to consult with a gynecologist before proceeding with the procedure.

What Causes Swelling After Thread Lifting?

Swelling after thread lifting is generally a temporary condition. However, it can be caused by:

1. Excessive pulling or too much fat in the cheeks: For individuals with more cheek fat, it’s often recommended to combine thread lifting with other treatments such as mesotherapy for better results.
2. Incorrect thread placement or pulling: If the threads are placed incorrectly, such as lifting the wrong area of the cheek, it could lead to an undesirable outcome, including swelling.
3. Infections or inflammation: While swelling is normal in the first few days, if the swelling continues to worsen after 4 days, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
4. Blood and fluid retention: Minor swelling due to blood or fluid retention (hematoma or edema) usually resolves within 2-3 weeks without causing long-term issues.

Factors That Can Affect the Longevity of Thread Lifting Results

Several factors can influence how long the results of a thread lifting procedure last:

1. Elastin levels in the skin: If the elastin in the skin begins to degrade, the threads may lose their grip sooner, reducing the lifespan of the effects.
2. The body’s ability to produce elastin: Even after the threads dissolve, the skin’s natural production of elastin can maintain some of the tightening effects.
3. The type of thread used:
   • PDO (Polydioxanone): Dissolves in 4-6 months. It is the most popular and flexible material.
   • PLLA (Polylactate): Dissolves in 12-18 months, but is less flexible and might be prone to breaking.
   • PCL (Polycaprolactone): Dissolves in 18-24 months and provides the most support but is the thickest.

Where Should You Get Thread Lifting?

Like any medical procedure, thread lifting comes with its risks. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a reputable clinic with qualified practitioners who can provide a safe and effective treatment. When selecting a clinic, consider the following:

• Reputation and trustworthiness: Choose a clinic with a registered license and positive reviews from actual patients.
• The doctor’s expertise: The doctor should be experienced in assessing individual facial concerns, selecting the right type of thread, and using the proper technique.
• Clinic cleanliness: The clinic should meet hygiene standards, and all tools and equipment should be sterilized to prevent infections.

Why Choose The VOGUE Clinic?

At The VOGUE Clinic Chonburi, we are committed to providing exceptional care under the supervision of experienced medical professionals. Our focus is on delivering natural, smooth, and firm facial contours using exclusive techniques that are unique to our clinic. Additionally, we uphold high safety standards and use modern, sterilized equipment that meets international standards, ensuring that every patient receives both safety and beauty tailored to their individual needs.

How to Prepare Before Thread Lifting?

• Provide a complete medical history, including any known allergies to medications, vitamins, or supplements you take regularly, so your doctor can assess your suitability for the procedure.
• Consult with the doctor to assess your facial structure and discuss the issues you wish to address, allowing for a personalized treatment plan.
• Once the consultation is completed, you can proceed with the procedure.

Preparation Recommendations:

• Avoid taking certain medications and vitamins such as aspirin, NSAIDs, ginseng, and Vitamin E for 24 hoursbefore the procedure.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol and avoid activities that increase blood flow right before the procedure.

Post-Procedure Care

Proper post-procedure care is crucial for ensuring long-lasting results and minimizing side effects. Here’s how to take care of yourself after the thread lifting procedure:

• Immediately after the procedure, it is normal to experience swelling, redness, and some bruising at the areas where the threads were inserted. These symptoms typically resolve within 2-3 days. Avoid rubbing, scratching, or massaging the treated areas.
• The clinic will provide medications to manage pain and reduce swelling.
• For the first 3 days, avoid excessive facial movement to prevent displacement of the threads.
• Avoid heat-based treatments such as saunas or other procedures involving heat for 2 months.
• Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions to maintain optimal results and ensure safety.

Possible Side Effects After Thread Lifting

Common Side Effects:

• Swelling or bruising: This is normal and will gradually improve within 7-14 days.
• Slight discomfort during the procedure: You may feel the threads being inserted, but it is a manageable sensation.
• Minor bleeding at the needle insertion points.

Serious Side Effects:

• Thread protrusion or breakage.
• Infection or inflammation.

However, these serious side effects are typically the result of procedures performed at clinics that lack proper standards or use non-registered threads. To reduce the risk of complications, it is essential to choose a reputable clinic that meets safety standards and uses FDA-approved, dissolvable threads.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) About Thread Lifting

Q: How soon will I see the results of thread lifting?
A: You will see immediate lifting results right after the procedure. Full, noticeable effects will be visible within 1 month. If you experience some swelling, it will gradually disappear within 14 days.

Q: Is thread lifting painful?
A: Before the procedure, the doctor will apply a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort. During the procedure, you may feel slight pressure as the threads are inserted, but this is usually well-tolerated.

Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: The procedure typically takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on the number of threads used and the technique applied by the doctor.

Q: Can thread lifting help with an uneven face?
A: Yes, thread lifting can help balance an uneven face. If one side of the face has more sagging or unevenness, the doctor will adjust the thread placement and tension on each side to ensure that both sides appear symmetrical after the treatment.