Hello! I am Airi Yokoyama, a cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist.
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “My faceline is getting blurry” or “I look older because of sagging cheeks” ?
A popular and easy way to resolve such concerns is with a thread lift.
In this article, I will explain the mechanism, effects, advantages and disadvantages, downtime, and duration of effects of thread lifts in a way that is easy to understand for beginners!
1. What is a thread lift?
A thread lift is a procedure that involves inserting special dissolving threads under the skin to lift sagging skin and fat.
The threads have “barbs” (cogs) that catch on the subcutaneous tissue, creating a lifting effect.
The threads used are often made from materials like PDO or PCL, which are absorbed by the body, and the threads dissolve over time. However, during this period, collagen production is stimulated, which is appealing as it provides both lifting and skin beautifying effects.
2. Who is suitable for a thread lift?
・Those concerned about sagging cheeks or face lines
・Those whose nasolabial folds have become more prominent
・Those who want a smaller face
・Those who prefer a procedure with minimal downtime
・Those who are hesitant about surgery but want to rejuvenate
This procedure is particularly popular among people in their 30s and 40s, but recently, those in their late 20s have been increasingly undergoing it for sagging prevention.
3. Procedure flow
- Examination and design by a doctor
- Anesthesia (local anesthesia or sedation)
- Inserting the thread under the skin using a specialized needle or cannula
- Adjusting the thread position and applying protective tape to finish
The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes, making it relatively short.
4. Downtime and side effects
A major benefit of the thread lift is that it has less downtime compared to surgical procedures.
・Swelling and redness: lasts from a few days to about a week
・Bruising: may occur, improving in 1 to 2 weeks
・Right after the procedure, you may feel a tightening or discomfort, but this usually settles down in a few days. Many people find that wearing a mask for a few days prevents others from noticing!
5. Effect and Duration
The thread lift is highly attractive due to its immediate effects. You can feel the lift in your face line immediately after the procedure. The effect lasts for about six months to one and a half years, depending on the type and number of threads used, as well as lifestyle habits.
Combining tightening treatments such as HIFU and radiofrequency before and after the thread lift tends to prolong the effects.
Moreover, even after the threads are absorbed, the collagen stimulation effect remains, so you can expect improvements in skin firmness and elasticity.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of Thread Lifts
Advantages:
・Immediate effect
・Short downtime
・Scars are hardly noticeable
・Beautifying effects from collagen production
Disadvantages:
・Effects are not permanent (lasts about six months to one and a half years)
・Risk of unnatural tightening
・Outcomes can vary based on the physician’s skill
7. Comparison with Other Treatments
・Hyaluronic acid injections: Improve nasolabial folds, hollows, and bone resorption
・HIFU: Tightens by applying heat to the deep layers of the skin-
・Facelift surgery: Provides long-term effects but has a long recovery time
The thread lift is a balanced option featuring “immediate effects” and “short downtime”.
Summary
Thread lifts are a popular rejuvenation procedure that can easily improve sagging in the cheeks and face line.
The short downtime and the ability to feel the effects immediately after the procedure are its greatest attractions.
However, since the effects last about six months to one and a half years, it is advisable to plan for regular maintenance.
If you feel like you’ve been looking older lately or are concerned about your faceline, consider consulting a clinic.
Our clinic welcomes consultations, even if it’s just for advice.
【Profile】
Cosmetic Surgeon/ Dermatologist
Dr. Airi Yokoyama
https://biancaclinic.jp/doctor/yokoyama/
She aspired to become a doctor since her early years and she studied at Hiroshima University, Faculty of Medicine.
She began her career in general medical care and eventually chose to pursue aesthetic medicine, aiming to enrich patients life through beauty. She has always focused on natural beauty through cosmetic dermatology, but in order to address specific concerns around the eye area she began to perform surgical procedures as well.
Previously, she was involved in establishing a clinic and worked as a director for three years as a cosmetic dermatologist, examining the skin and faces of approximately 20,000 patients and contributing to the clinic’s growth.
Having experience as a clinic director and three overseas study programs, her goal is to provide beauty care to international patients with safe and high quality treatments.
Dr. Airi is fluent in Japanese and English language.
Her speciality in aesthetic medicine includes: Anti-aging care, Injection, Sagging face treatments, Skin rejuvenating boosters, Skin treatments.
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☎ 050-1807-1593
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Consultation Hours: 10:00–19:00 Closed: Irregular holidays
About BIANCA Clinic
At BIANCA, we redefine beauty care by offering a holistic approach that transcends traditional cosmetic surgery and dermatology. 20 specialized doctors in different fields including plastic surgery, dermatology, internal medicine, regenerative medicine, gynecology will carefully listen to your needs and help you to enhance your beauty and wellness from the inside out. We are committed to creating personalized treatment plans with precision and care, and ensuring you experience the true spirit of Japanese omotenashi and hospitality.