Thread Lift of Face

Thread Lift of Face

Thread lift is a non-surgical procedure wherein threads are inserted into the skin to produce tightening and lifting effects. Thread lift is a popular option in non-surgical face lifting. The threads used in thread lifting are made of PDO (polydioxanone), a safe biomedical material commonly used in  surgical sutures. Thread lift produces both an immediate effect and a delayed effect. The PDO threads create an immediate lifting effects after the threads are inserted into the skin due to the threads’ physical property and mechanical pull. At the same time, PDO threads also stimulate the skin to produce collagen. The collagen that is produced can tighten the skin, enhance skin elasticity, improve skin textures, and reduce fine wrinkles. Once inserted into the face, PDO threads will undergo complete reabsorption within six months. However, the tightening and lifting effects brought about by collagen production will last up yo 2 years or more. Bidirectional cog thread and Silhouette Soft® thread are two of the methods that are suitable for non-surgical face lifting.

Thread lift can be offered to patients who feel reluctant to undergo surgery or for patients with mild and minor facial aging. Thread lift is also a good option for patients who prefer a less invasive procedure with rapid recovery time.

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before the procedure.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before the procedure. Smoking is harmful to wound healing, reduces the beneficial effects of PDO threads, and increases the risks of other post-procedure complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.

         1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

         2. Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

Procedure

Duration: Half an hour to one hour

Anaesthesia: Numb cream with or without local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required.

Recovery*: Back to work in one day, light exercise after one to 3 days, heavy exercise after one week. * The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Procedure:Threads are inserted under the skin using special needles. Different types of thread can be used, depending on the target areas and the amount of lifting that is required. There are no incisions and no external scars.

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect: Swelling is minimal and usually peaks on the second to the third day and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

      2. General care

         1. Apply cold pack first 3 days and warm pack after that. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of complications.

         3. Adequate rest and sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         4. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as prescribed when necessary.

      4. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for one to 2 weeks.

      5. Follow-up: Come back one week after for review.

      6. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.