Threadlifting has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity as a minimally invasive procedure for facial rejuvenation. Newer generation threads offer significant advantages over their predecessors, including improved biocompatibility leading to lower rates of inflammation and extrusion.
The basic principle of most threadlifting procedures involves inserting sutures equipped with tiny barbs or fixation cones beneath the skin. These sutures act as anchors, providing a lift to sagging tissues. The sutures are absorbable, meaning they gradually dissolve over time. This temporary effect ensures no foreign material remains after treatment, eliminating potential long-term issues. Additionally, some threads are specifically designed for placement in volume-deficient areas. These stimulate collagen production for a longer-lasting volumizing effect compared to injectable fillers.
It’s crucial to understand that threadlifting cannot replicate the outcomes of a facelift. Facelift techniques involve surgically releasing and repositioning the underlying facial tissues and skin, providing a permanent correction for sagging and loss of elasticity associated with aging. This results in a lasting change in facial tissue structure, not simply a temporary lifting effect. While patients will continue to age and experience some further sagging over time, the timeframe for noticeable recurrence is significantly longer compared to threadlifting results.
Similarly, fat transfer offers a longer-lasting, even permanent solution for volume loss compared to fillers or threads. Transferred fat integrates into its new location as living tissue, leading to a stable improvement in facial volume.
Therefore, threadlifting is best suited for patients seeking subtle, temporary improvement in their facial appearance. The achievable enhancements are inherently less dramatic and significantly shorter-lived compared to a facelift. While facelifts involve slightly longer recovery times, the overall benefit and longevity of results provide better value for many patients.
