Side effects of face threading, also known as a thread lift, is a popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure designed to lift and tighten sagging skin on the face and neck. This minimally invasive treatment uses dissolvable sutures, typically made from materials like polydioxanone (PDO), polycaprolactone (PCL), or polylactic acid (PLA), to reposition the skin, stimulate collagen production, and give a rejuvenated appearance. While many people are drawn to the procedure because of its quick recovery time, less invasive nature, and impressive results, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects.
Understanding the possible side effects and complications associated with face threading is crucial for anyone considering this treatment. Although generally safe, like all cosmetic procedures, it carries risks that should be thoroughly discussed with a qualified practitioner.
Disadvantages of Thread Lift
While face threading can provide a youthful appearance, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the disadvantages. Below are some of the disadvantages associated with thread lifts:
1. Temporary Results
One of the main disadvantages of a thread lift is that the results are temporary. Unlike surgical facelifts, which can last up to a decade, the results of a thread lift generally last between 12 to 18 months. This is because the threads eventually dissolve and are absorbed by the body. Although the threads stimulate collagen production, this effect also diminishes over time. For long-term maintenance, repeat treatments are often necessary.
2. Limited Scope of Improvement
Another disadvantage is that thread lifts are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate skin sagging. People with more significant skin laxity may not achieve the desired results from a thread lift alone and may require a more invasive procedure, such as a traditional facelift. In essence, thread lifts cannot provide the dramatic results that surgical options offer, limiting their scope of effectiveness for some individuals.
3. Asymmetry
One common side effect of a thread lift is asymmetry, where one side of the face may appear different from the other. While some degree of asymmetry is natural and often unnoticeable, in thread lifts, the uneven tightening of the threads can result in a lopsided or unnatural appearance. This may require follow-up treatments to correct.
4. Risk of Infection
Although rare, there is always a risk of infection with any procedure that involves breaking the skin. Thread lifts are no exception. The insertion of the threads can sometimes introduce bacteria, leading to an infection that may require antibiotics or, in more severe cases, the removal of the threads. Proper post-procedure care and the use of sterile techniques can reduce this risk, but it’s still a potential concern.
5. Swelling and Bruising
Most patients will experience some degree of swelling and bruising following a thread lift. While these side effects are generally mild and resolve within a week or two, they can be more severe in some cases. Bruising, particularly in more sensitive areas of the face, can cause discomfort and require additional recovery time.
6. Pain and Discomfort
Though face threading is marketed as minimally invasive, the procedure can still cause discomfort during and after the treatment. Local anesthesia is typically used to minimize pain during the procedure, but patients may still feel some discomfort as the threads are inserted and adjusted. After the procedure, tenderness, tightness, and soreness in the treated areas are common, although these symptoms generally subside within a few days to a week.
7. Risk of Thread Migration
Thread migration is a rare but concerning complication. In some cases, the threads can shift from their intended position, leading to uneven results or visible threads beneath the skin. Thread migration may occur due to improper technique, excessive movement of the face during recovery, or the use of inferior thread materials. Correcting this issue may require additional procedures to either remove or adjust the threads.
8. Allergic Reactions
Although uncommon, allergic reactions to the materials used in the threads can occur. PDO, PCL, and PLA are generally biocompatible and safe, but in rare cases, patients may experience an allergic response. Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. It’s important for patients to discuss any known allergies with their practitioner before undergoing the procedure.
9. Scarring
Although face threading is a minimally invasive procedure, there is still a risk of scarring. Small incisions are made to insert the threads, and while these usually heal without any visible marks, some patients may develop small scars or areas of hyperpigmentation at the insertion points. Proper aftercare can reduce this risk, but it’s a potential side effect to consider.
Thread Lift Face
A thread lift is specifically designed to address various facial concerns, particularly sagging in the mid-face, jowls, and neck areas. The procedure works by inserting dissolvable threads into the subdermal layer of the skin, which act as a scaffold to lift and tighten sagging tissues. In addition to the immediate lifting effect, the threads stimulate collagen production over time, further improving skin elasticity and firmness.
How It Works
The thread lift procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of threads used and the areas being treated. The process begins with the application of local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Afterward, the practitioner inserts the threads into the skin using a fine needle or cannula. Once the threads are in place, they are gently pulled to lift the skin, creating a more youthful and contoured appearance.
Target Areas
Thread lifts are versatile and can be used to target several areas of the face, including:
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Brow Lift: To raise the eyebrows and reduce the appearance of hooded eyes.
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Mid-Face Lift: To lift sagging cheeks and reduce nasolabial folds.
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Jawline Lift: To tighten the jowls and create a more defined jawline.
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Neck Lift: To address sagging skin and horizontal lines on the neck.
Ideal Candidates
The ideal candidates for a thread lift are generally between the ages of 30 and 50, with mild to moderate skin laxity. Individuals with significant sagging or very loose skin may require more invasive procedures to achieve optimal results. Additionally, candidates should be in good overall health, with no active infections or skin conditions in the treatment area.
Are PDO Threads Dangerous?
PDO (polydioxanone) threads are one of the most commonly used materials in thread lifts. PDO is a biocompatible, absorbable material that has been used in medical sutures for decades, and it is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic procedures. However, like any medical treatment, there are risks associated with the use of PDO threads.
1. Safety of PDO Threads
PDO threads are considered safe when used by a trained and experienced practitioner. The threads are designed to gradually dissolve within the skin over six to nine months, and their biocompatible nature means they are unlikely to cause adverse reactions. PDO threads also stimulate collagen production as they dissolve, which can help improve the skin’s texture and firmness over time.
2. Risks of PDO Threads
While PDO threads are generally safe, there are still some risks to consider:
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Infection: As mentioned earlier, any procedure that involves breaking the skin carries a risk of infection, and PDO thread lifts are no exception.
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Thread Visibility: In some cases, the threads may become visible under the skin, particularly if they are placed too close to the surface or if the patient has very thin skin.
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Granuloma Formation: Rarely, the body may form small lumps, known as granulomas, around the threads as part of the immune response. These lumps are typically harmless but can be cosmetically undesirable.
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Nerve Damage: Although extremely rare, there is a slight risk of nerve damage during the procedure. This can result in temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the affected area.
3. Ensuring Safety
To minimize the risks associated with PDO thread lifts, it is crucial to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner. Proper training and technique are essential for achieving optimal results and avoiding complications. Additionally, patients should follow all post-procedure care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of side effects.
Conclusion
Face threading, or thread lifting, is an effective way to rejuvenate the face without undergoing invasive surgery. However, like all cosmetic treatments, it comes with potential side effects and disadvantages. While the procedure can provide a more youthful appearance, it’s essential to consider factors like temporary results, the risk of asymmetry, and the possibility of complications such as infection or thread migration. PDO threads are generally considered safe, but they also come with their own risks, which should be discussed thoroughly with a qualified professional.
Before undergoing a thread lift, it’s vital to have realistic expectations and fully understand the potential risks and benefits. By consulting with an experienced practitioner and following proper aftercare instructions, patients can minimize their risk of complications and enjoy the benefits of this minimally invasive procedure.
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