Thread Lift

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and in some cases, light sedation is required to relieve anxiety. The threads used in this procedure are safe because they are made of polypropylene which is also the preferred material for sewing threads. These threads are not smooth but have small spines evenly along the length of the thread which helps them stabilize and lift the subcutaneous tissue when the threads are pulled. The surgeon inserts barbed threads through an incision near the hairline below the skin along the lines marked on the face before the procedure. The threads are cut and knotted at the other end. The threads are pulled from one side to lift the skin and attach it to the deeper, firmer tissues of the face. The threads are left permanently in place to maintain the lift. Collagen fibers form naturally along these strands and maintain the effect. Often, two threads are inserted on each side of the face to perform a facelift. The number of threads used depends on the severity of the sagging. The procedure lasts for 30 to 60 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure so patients can go home shortly after the procedure. However, the duration of treatment varies depending on the number of threads used to achieve the desired improvement. Significant improvement is noted with one session of therapy. Mild bruising and swelling are normal after the procedure and disappear within a few days. It is a safe procedure and the risks can be reduced when an experienced surgeon does it. This procedure is completely reversible and the threads can be removed if the desired results are not achieved.