The thread lift is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help to reduce the signs of aging and restore a more youthful appearance. It is considered to be a permanent solution, similar to a surgical facelift, but unlike surgery, it is easily reversible. In cases where barbed sutures or threads are visible beneath the skin, it can be difficult and risky to simply pull out the threads. To reverse the effects of the thread lift, doctors may try to dissolve the thread in the skin, allowing it to be absorbed naturally and reversing the stretching effect of the thread.
Radiofrequency Targeted Exposure (RFTE) may also be used to accelerate the natural biodegradation of the thread and its uptake. While it is possible to reverse a thread lift, it is not recommended. Patients should speak with their surgeon about the possibility before undergoing any procedure. Complications from a PDO Thread Lift can occur, such as dimpling, shirring, and visibility of the thread.
These issues are usually temporary as PDO threads are soluble. To avoid complications, it is important to receive proper training on how to safely lay these threads. Thread lifts can be used to address sagging skin on various areas of the body, including the face and neck, buttocks, knees, and elbows. The procedure involves using absorbable threads to lift and rejuvenate facial skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
It repositions sagging skin to tighten and add definition to the face. The results of a thread lift can be seen almost immediately after treatment. Most patients find that their results last for 12-18 months. After treatment, patients can resume normal activity immediately and may experience tenderness for 24-48 hours.
Bruising, swelling, and redness of the treated area may also occur but should subside within 24 hours. Thread lifts are performed by consulting surgeons who have experience in reconstructive surgery of the head, neck and face, plastic surgery and maxillofacial surgery. Our senior consulting surgeon Mr Ashok Songra is also part of the expert panel of the wrinkle validator for the United Kingdom. Thread lifts are virtually painless as they are loaded on very thin and extremely sharp needles. Depending on the type of threads used, only topical or local anesthesia may be required.
Side effects may include bruising and minor swelling but patients can go on with daily life immediately after treatment. Contraindications for thread lifts include excessively sagging skin at an older age, obesity or very heavy skin, allergic reactions or multiple skin infections, dandruff or hair lice, immunologically compromising diseases (e.g., cancer or HIV), systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes), and other conditions. The number of threads required will depend on the characteristics of the patient and areas being treated. To get a regenerating effect that brightens skin and improves texture requires many threads. Patients will begin to see results after 4 weeks as collagen starts working and skin becomes younger, firmer, and brighter looking. Mild sexual activity can usually be resumed 1 week after most thread lift procedures. Alex Best is an author, TV personality and ex-wife of late George Best who recently underwent a non-surgical facelift treatment with Cosmetech at their Holywood branch in Northern Ireland. Alex has been in the public eye for more than 20 years and takes pride in her appearance. After her treatment she was looking forward to attending events and parties with her newly rejuvenated skin but also enjoys relaxing at home with her beautiful red setter. It is important to note that thread lifts should only be performed by qualified professionals who have experience in this type of procedure.
