Key Takeaways
- A full face thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure using dissolvable threads to lift and contour the skin while promoting collagen production for long-lasting rejuvenation.
- This treatment is ideal for patients between the ages of 30 and 50 who have mild to moderate skin laxity. It is an excellent option to use for non-surgical facelifts.
- Thread lifts are tailored to treating the areas in need, such as the brows, cheeks or jawline. This ensures that patients can achieve more customized results that really bring out their unique, natural beauty.
- Popular thread types such as PDO and barbed threads provide some enticing advantages. They are great for delivering instant lifting effects, as well as improving skin texture long-term through collagen production.
- Recovery is typically very swift with little to no downtime. With the right aftercare, including gentle skincare and avoiding strenuous activity, you’ll set yourself up for optimal results.
- That’s why it’s important to choose a highly experienced practitioner to help minimise risks and ensure safe and beautiful outcomes. Do your research, and ever make sure to verify credentials and read reviews.
A full face thread lift offers the most effective minimally invasive solution. It effectively improves facial volume and shape, restoring a more youthful appearance. This minimally-invasive procedure utilizes biocompatible threads to instantly lift and smooth sagging skin.
It works best on the cheeks, jawline, and neck, providing a natural lift and rejuvenation. The procedure works by stimulating collagen production, which restores skin elasticity and firmness over time.
Thread lifts do provide a faster recovery than traditional surgical facelifts. They are less risky than surgical options, which makes them a more convenient option for most individuals.
Producing results that can last as long as 18 months, it’s the perfect mix of convenience and impactful change. Whether you’re looking to achieve a more youthful look or want a less invasive alternative, this treatment provides a healthy middle ground between facial rejuvenation and surgery.
What Is a Full Face Thread Lift?
1. Definition of a Thread Lift
A thread lift is a type of minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. It utilizes dissolvable threads such as polydioxanone (PDO) or barbed threads to successfully lift and tighten the skin. PDO threads, known for their biocompatibility, have been widely used in medical procedures like heart surgery, making them a safe choice.
Unlike smooth threads, which are made of a smooth filament, barbed threads have tiny hooks that grip the tissue, offering additional lifting strength. Thread lifts are highly customizable, allowing providers to target specific areas of the face for focused results.
The foxy eye lift and the brow lift procedures have exploded in popularity. They allow individuals to embrace cultural or avant-garde beauty trends elegantly. These options provide a high level of precision, targeting the specific areas that require more contouring or definition.
2. Purpose of a Full Face Thread Lift
The full face thread lift brings back your natural beauty. This treatment is able to address key indicators of aging, such as skin laxity and wrinkles, very efficiently. This treatment is especially effective for those with mild to moderate skin laxity, making it a great fit for those in their 30s to 50s.
That might not be the case for you, depending on skin elasticity and health. The full face thread lift procedure primarily restores a youthful appearance by lifting the skin and promoting collagen production.
It is a great choice for anyone looking for dramatic but natural looking results without the need for invasive surgery. For instance, those who are starting to notice the first signs of ageing can use this approach to create subtle, natural-looking improvements.
3. How Thread Lifts Work
In a thread lift, threads are inserted beneath the skin using a thin cannula or needle. Once the threads are in place, they deliver an instant lifting effect, and the placement of the threads stimulates the body’s natural healing response.
This series of steps increases the generation of type 1 collagen. This more developed type of collagen helps to maintain the strength and elasticity of your skin. Because this procedure is non-surgical, you can expect less recovery time than with traditional facelifts.
Although the lift obtained is subtle, often just a few millimetres, it results in a brightened and younger appearance. As time goes on, the newly produced collagen restores lost volume and skin quality, with results lasting up to two years.
For instance, areas such as the jawline or cheeks can look firmer and more defined after treatment.
Types of Thread Lifts
1. Different Types of Threads Used
Today, thread lifts use a variety of materials that can be customized to the person. PDO threads are the most common threads used and are very popular due to their dual lifting and collagen stimulating benefits. They fully dissolve in approximately six to eight months, all the while encouraging the production of type 3 collagen and elastin, improving skin tightness.
NovaThreads are produced using biocompatible PDO material. They promote safe absorption and last four to six months, at which point they dissolve completely on their own. Polylactic acid based Silhouette Soft threads work not only to lift the skin but to create gradual volume restoration with collagen regeneration.
At the initial consultation, practitioners carefully examine facial structure, discuss aesthetic goals, and determine what’s realistic. Preparation includes abstaining from alcohol or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce bruising. On the day, markings guide precise thread placement, anaesthesia ensures comfort, and threads are inserted beneath the skin to lift and contour.
2. Customisation for Specific Facial Areas
Anaesthesia, usually local, is used to numb targeted areas, minimizing pain. For those in pain, topical anesthetics, oral pain medication, or numbing injections are used. Though some experience slight pressure, discomfort is low overall, making the treatment quite tolerable for the average person.
Gentle techniques, warm hands, and clear communication all help patients feel better. Threads can be customized to treat precise areas such as cheeks, jawlines, or necks for a more tailored and natural-looking outcome.
3. Popular Options Like Foxy Eye and Brow Lift
Recovery depends on the extent of work done, but it is a quick recovery. Most side effects, such as minor swelling or bruising, go away within days, with optimal results in four to six weeks. Drinking plenty of fluids, not wearing heavy makeup, and avoiding strenuous exercise for at least a week aids in the recovery process.
You’ll be back to everyday activities in 24 to 48 hours, so it’s a very convenient procedure. Popular options, like foxy eye and brow lifts, are examples of the customization aspect of thread lifts to improve facial aesthetics.
Ideal Candidates for a Full Face Thread Lift
Who benefits most from the procedure
Patients with mild to moderate skin laxity would benefit from a thread lift. This is a fabulous procedure for patients in their late 30s to early 50s. It’s a great solution for these early signs of sagging, everything without an invasive surgery.
For patients looking for very subtle, very natural results, it provides a much less dramatic option than facelifts. This treatment is perfect for patients who are unable to undergo surgery. It helps people with chronic conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
This minimally invasive technique is attractive to people who want to avoid the use of general anaesthesia. Your ultimate results can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on variables such as the types of threads utilized.
This makes it a cost-effective option for anyone looking for sustainable skin rejuvenation. Examples include professionals balancing busy schedules who need minimal recovery time or older adults preferring conservative facial enhancements for a refreshed appearance.
Benefits of a Full Face Thread Lift
1. Non-surgical nature of the procedure
What makes a full face thread lift different from a traditional facelift is that it doesn’t require invasive surgery. This easy, minimally invasive procedure utilizes polydioxanone (PDO) threads to gently lift and tighten the skin for a youthful appearance. Unlike traditional facelifts, it entails significantly shorter recovery times, making it a popular choice among facelift patients seeking quick results.
The whole procedure is so minimally invasive that it can be performed in under an hour and only requires local anesthesia. Because there are no deep cuts, patients usually return to normal life within a few days. This makes it an attractive option for those looking for dramatic results without the risks or recovery associated with surgical facelift procedures.
For example, we see the best thread lift results in people in their 40s or 50s with mild to moderate sagging. It is ideal for patients who are noticing the very first signs of aging but are not yet ready to consider surgical procedures. The straightforwardness of the method guarantees ease of use even by a large pool of potential applicants without compromising on professional-level output.
2. Immediate and natural-looking results
Perhaps the most loved benefit of a full face thread lift is how quickly the procedure takes. You can start to notice the results right away! After the PDO threads are inserted, there is nearly immediate improvement in skin tightness and contours.
This instant lift is natural-looking, preventing the “done” appearance that can sometimes result from cosmetic enhancements. The result integrates beautifully with your facial expressions at rest, so the results look natural and not overdone.
For example, someone who has lost volume resulting in sagging cheeks or a drooping jawline will notice these areas appearing more contoured after treatment. The long-lasting beauty will amaze them! As the threads settle over time, the lift increases and gives a more contoured appearance.
The complete benefits usually start to show through at around one to two months, providing a subtle improvement. This gradual enhancement lets friends, family, and colleagues see a younger, rejuvenated you without even knowing you had a procedure performed.
3. Boosting collagen production for long-term effects
What makes the PDO thread lift special is its double duty of producing an instant lifting effect while improving long-term skin health. As the PDO threads dissolve, they stimulate your body to produce collagen, an essential protein that gives skin its elasticity and firmness.
Once the threads are placed, natural stimulation goes to work. In the coming three months, the body begins to produce collagen fibers around the threads. This increase in collagen production not only keeps the lifting effect intact but contributes to a healthier skin texture.
Smoother, more elastic skin is rewarded by reversing the average 80% loss in skin thickness by age 70. The lifting effect generally lasts for 12 to 18 months, and your unique individual factors come into play a great deal. Some patients are thrilled with their results for as long as three years!
For patients looking for more extreme, long-lasting effects, there’s the Silhouette InstaLift, which offers more dramatic results from one to three years. You’ll be able to address mid-face sagging and nasolabial folds with this collagen-boosting feature, too. It promises a subtle, natural rejuvenation process that continues to work months after the first treatment.
How Long Does a Thread Lift Last?
A complete face thread lift will provide powerful, dramatic, and lasting results. During the procedure, temporary threads are inserted into the skin made from polydioxanone (PDO). This material is trusted in medical environments for sutures, for example, for its safety and reliability.
These threads dissolve naturally over time, usually within six to eight months. The impact of the lift goes beyond this timeframe. In fact, the majority of patients experience long-lasting effects for a minimum of 18 months.
Some people even continue to benefit for up to three years! The body’s natural collagen production contributes to a firmer and more youthful appearance. This long-lasting effect comes from the fact that the threads stimulate your body’s own production of that collagen.
A thread lift lasts approximately 50% longer than dermal fillers such as Juvederm Ultra. This even further extends its appeal as a more long-lasting alternative to other facial rejuvenation options. Once the initial effects wear off, a subsequent procedure is typically not needed for at least three years.
Procedure Overview
1. What to expect during a consultation
During the consultation for a PDO thread lift, the focus is on assessing your skin condition and discussing your desired outcomes. A qualified practitioner will evaluate areas of sagging or loose skin and determine if you are a suitable candidate. Typically, this procedure benefits individuals aged late 30s to early 50s.
The consultation is an opportunity to ask questions about the treatment process, risks, and expected results. For instance, many patients want to know about the threads themselves—made from biocompatible and biodegradable materials, these PDO threads are safe and dissolve naturally over time.
The practitioner will cleanse the treatment area and describe how the threads work to lift and support sagging skin. They promote collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness. Effective communication during this initial stage helps to establish realistic expectations, laying the groundwork for a successful procedure.
2. Pre-procedure preparation steps
Preparation for a PDO thread lift is simple, but important to follow for the best results. Doctors are often reluctant to tell patients to avoid alcohol and smoking. They further advise against some medications, including blood thinners, for several days leading up to the procedure.
Taking these precautions will help lessen the bruising and allow for a much more even and faster healing process. It’s important to stay hydrated—well-hydrated skin will yield the best results with the threads.
In general, practitioners will advise you to skip any irritating skincare products with active ingredients, such as retinoids or exfoliants. When the day of your procedure arrives, you’ll want to come in with a freshly washed face.
Remove all eye makeup and heavy facial moisturizers for optimal results. These precautions facilitate the perfect storm for the treatment to help patients.
3. Step-by-step guide to the procedure
The PDO thread lift procedure is intended to be minimally invasive and time-efficient, typically taking place in under an hour. It all starts with the practitioner drawing the treatment areas on your face. Local anaesthetic is injected to numb the skin so that the entire procedure is comfortable.
We have to get the skin ready first. Next, we gently place the PDO threads under the skin using a narrow needle or cannula. While inserting the threads, the practitioner simultaneously pulls up the skin to create the lifted appearance.
For instance, the most popular areas to be treated include the cheeks, jawline, and neck. The threads stimulate collagen production, which further improves skin texture in the weeks afterward. After threading placement, the threads are trimmed and the practitioner checks the face for symmetry and a natural appearance.
The procedure involves very minimal downtime, with most returning to routine within a few days.
Pain Levels and Discomfort During the Procedure
1. Anaesthesia used during the treatment
A full face thread lift usually starts with the application of local anaesthesia. This helps make sure the targeted areas are completely numbed, minimizing any sensations at the treatment site during the procedure. Lidocaine is a popular option, typically injected through a tiny needle into multiple areas on the face.
The anaesthetic effect can take several minutes to kick in, so this step is important for a pain-free procedure. Compared to other invasive surgical procedures, general anaesthesia is not needed, thus avoiding all the related risks. Having said that, the thin needles used to insert PDO threads are made to entirely mitigate discomfort.
For the majority of patients, this aspect of treatment is simply a pinch. It usually seems like pulling instead of acute pain.
2. Managing discomfort during the process
Most immediate discomfort during the procedure is minimal and effectively managed by anaesthetic. After the procedure, some people may experience tenderness around the suture sites. This is very normal and may persist for 7 days or more.
Mild side effects like redness, swelling, or little bruises can occur as well but usually resolve themselves within two weeks. Using cool compresses during the first 24 hours after the procedure can help minimize any swelling and provide comfort to the skin.
As most people will just have long-term tenderness, simple pain relief – such as paracetamol – should be the mainstay of their treatment.
It is important to mention that moderate pain can be experienced by some patients, lasting as long as two weeks. More severe pain is uncommon (< 1%) and is considered a complication of the procedure.
With advanced techniques and the minimally invasive nature of PDO threads, recovery is quick and comfortable for most individuals. Patients go home with a very tolerable recovery.
Recovery and Aftercare
1. Recovery timeline after treatment
The recovery process after a full face thread lift is rather simple, safe and easy, though it does take patience and diligence. Mild swelling and bruising may occur, usually going down within a few days. You may see instant lifting results, but the skin can take up to 7–10 days to return to its normal look.
The sutures biodegrade within 6 to 8 months. You will likely notice the most dramatic results within 6 to 12 weeks as new collagen develops and tightens your skin. This incremental approach provides a more organic and sustainable upgrade.
2. Post-procedure care tips for best results
We know that proper aftercare is key to maximizing outcomes. We recommend putting off any non-emergency dental treatments for two weeks to avoid putting undue stress on recently treated areas.
To maximize healing and minimize bruising, avoid supplements that can increase bruising such as omega fish oils, vitamin E and ginseng. Repeat this two days before and after your procedure.
Steer clear of high-impact activities, such as running or contact sports, for three weeks to safeguard the threads. For swelling, use a cold compress to ease the pain.
3. When to resume daily activities
Daily activities most often can be resumed within 2 to 4 days. Going all out and taking a whole week for “social downtime” will increase that confidence considerably.
High-intensity agility or strenuous work can be deferred for a minimum of three weeks. This sensible method protects the therapy while permitting progressive assimilation into your life.
Risks and Complications
1. Common risks associated with thread lifts
Even as a minimally invasive procedure, thread lifts do have their risks that you should be aware of. Visible sutures tend to be a big concern for most patients especially those individuals with less thick skin. In these instances, the threads may become visible under the surface.
Pain and mild bruising is common too, particularly around the entry points, as the skin adapts to the threads. While these side effects are typically mild and temporary, they can be significant enough to spoil your enjoyment of the recovery phase.
Another potential complication is dimpling, in which the skin acquires an orange peel appearance. This may happen when threads pull in an unbalanced manner or in cases where skin responds irregularly to the treatment.
Allergic reactions to the threading material, while uncommon, are a possibility, making it critical to be aware of what materials are being used. Infection at the incision site is another possible risk, as negligence during aftercare or unsanitary conditions may result in infections and complications.
2. Rare complications to be aware of
Rare complications, while uncommon, cannot be dismissed. Another frequent pitfall is the breaking of threads. When a break occurs in tension, uneven lifting can result and will have to be reamed out before completion.
In more serious cases, this at times can lead to the build-up of blood, called a haematoma, under the skin. Although typically benign, larger haematomas may require drainage to avoid additional pain and swelling.
Infection spreading beyond the incision site, while rare, might lead to more pronounced swelling or redness that takes longer to improve. Allergic reactions, especially acute reactions, can result in extended recovery time or further medical care.
Although these unusual problems aren’t typical, knowing about them gives you the opportunity to make more balanced decisions.
3. How to minimise risks with experienced practitioners
Selecting a qualified and experienced practitioner is one of the best ways to mitigate risks. Practitioners who have a thorough understanding of anatomy and proper threading techniques can reduce the risk of visible sutures greatly.
They help avoid problems such as dimpling or breaking threads. They are more prepared to deal with any complications if they ever do occur.
When performed by reputable practitioners who adhere to the highest hygiene standards, the risk of infection is minimized. They spend quality time learning about your medical history.
This allows them to test for any allergic reaction to the threading material in advance of the procedure. By explaining the procedure thoroughly and managing expectations, the pros make it all look easy, delivering a fantastic experience and fantastic results.
Costs of a Full Face Thread Lift
1. Factors influencing the cost of the procedure
There are several factors that determine the cost of a full face thread lift, beginning with the amount of threads needed. For example, treating mild sagging would typically take fewer threads. If you want to treat more areas—such as the jawline, cheeks, and brow—you’ll require additional threads, raising the total cost.
Your individual goals come into it too, some people are looking for very subtle improvements and other people are looking for a bit more of a dramatic change. Prices usually begin from £599.50. The total cost will be influenced by how complicated your facial anatomy is and what the surgeon determines during your consultation.
The practitioner’s expertise and the clinic’s location greatly affect pricing. Clinics located in big cities with more experienced professionals tend to have higher prices but usually deliver superior results.
2. Comparing costs with other aesthetic treatments
When you compare the cost of a thread lift to facelift surgery, thread lifts are an economical option. Full facelift operations are upwards of £10,000 and you may find yourself needing additional procedures in the future.
By comparison, a full face thread lift costs between £599.50 and £2,000. Although facelift results last up to ten years, thread lifts provide an affordable alternative, with effects typically lasting one to three years.
Thread lifts are budget-friendly when it comes to recovery time, providing fast results with little downtime. Thread lifts are an affordable treatment. They cost an average of 10% less than surgical facelifts, even though they deliver noticeable results just as well.
Importance of Choosing an Experienced Practitioner
1. Why expertise matters in thread lifting
Thread lifting is a popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that offers instant skin lifting benefits, but it requires a high degree of skill and artistry, along with an in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy. If performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the thread lift results can appear quite natural and enduring. Experience ensures that the surgical threads are placed in the right way.
This technique gently lifts and supports the skin, significantly reducing the risk of uneven results or complications. For instance, an expert practitioner understands the need to adjust the technique for various face shapes or skin conditions. They can select from various types of threads like polydioxanone (PDO) or poly-L-lactic acid (PLA) to achieve the desired lift effect.
The choice of thread is based on the client’s skin elasticity and the expected outcomes. If a mistake occurs, such as inserting threads too superficially, it can lead to visible indentations or discomfort. However, with a skilled cosmetic surgeon, these potential pitfalls are easily avoided.
Beyond the years of training it takes to reach this level of precision, it is sheer dedication to a craft. That’s why it’s important to choose an experienced practitioner.
2. Tips for finding a qualified professional
It starts with checking their credentials. Look for medical board or aesthetic association certifications. These certifications are a good marker for a solid foundation in both theory and practice.
Inquire about how many they’ve done, and be sure to specify experience with thread lifts, as this procedure is not exactly the same as other cosmetic treatments. A practitioner who has five years of experience doing thread lifts has probably had time to really perfect their technique.
Even more importantly, they’ve seen a broader spectrum of cases, which provides them unique, valuable insight. Personal reviews and testimonials from previous clients can further provide you with insight into their reputation.
Look for before-and-after pictures of their past work. These images will give you a sense of the quality of their results. On consultation, look for how well they communicate the procedure, risks involved and aftercare.
An experienced professional will be able to speak clearly and confidently about the process and answer all your questions, building your trust and confidence in their expertise.
Booking Your Appointment
1. How to schedule a consultation
Booking Your AppointmentThis is the first step to booking a consultation for a full face thread lift. Seek out practitioners who are certified, experienced and have good feedback from previous clients. Most clinics even make booking online through their website an option for even more convenience.
There should be a prominent “Book Appointment” or “Schedule Consultation” button on their home page. Calling the clinic directly is always a good idea if you need more information before you book. In this step, be sure to enter your contact information and choose a date and time that works best for your schedule.
Some clinics will ask for a non-refundable deposit at the time of booking to secure your appointment.
2. Questions to ask before booking
Before you settle on an appointment, you need to ask the right questions. Start by asking about the practitioner’s credentials, such as their education and experience performing thread lifts.
Inquire about what kind of thread they employ, as various materials and methods are found in the marketplace. Understanding the anticipated outcomes, possible complications, and downtime will help you manage the expectations of yourself and others.
Ask what the total cost will be, even after factoring in follow-up appointments or other treatments they may recommend.
Conclusion
With a full face thread lift, you can enjoy a minimally invasive procedure that provides dramatic results in reviving your appearance. It gives you the instant lifting effect and smoother skin with no surgery recovery. The results are quite subtle (in a good way) but effective and the recovery is faster than more invasive alternatives. Choosing the right practitioner ensures safe and satisfying outcomes, with a focus on your comfort and goals throughout the process.
If you’re interested in this treatment, it’s advisable to talk through your expectations and suitability with a qualified professional in order to get the best results. They can walk you through the specifics and help you determine whether a full face thread lift is the best choice for you. Let us help you get the youthful appearance you desire—schedule your consultation today! A tailored approach will leave you with the comfort of knowing you made the right decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full face thread lift?
A full face thread lift, a popular non-surgical procedure, utilizes dissolvable threads to achieve a natural-looking lift and tightening of sagging skin while promoting new collagen production for enhanced skin texture and a more youthful appearance.
How long does a thread lift last?
Results last an average of 12 to 18 months. Depending on the type of thread used, your skin condition, and lifestyle choices, longevity will vary.
Is a thread lift painful?
The procedure requires very little discomfort, and a local anesthesia is used to ensure a pain-free experience for facelift patients.
Who is an ideal candidate for a full face thread lift?
Ideal candidates for a nonsurgical facelift are typically between the ages of 30–60, possessing mild to moderate skin laxity, and seeking less invasive beauty treatments that promote skin tightening.
What are the risks of a thread lift?
Risks associated with cosmetic procedures like a thread lift may include swelling, bruising, infection, or minor asymmetry; thus, selecting a skilled plastic surgeon is essential to minimize these risks.
How much does a full face thread lift cost in the UK?
The price for a thread lift procedure ranges from £800 to £2,500, depending on your clinic and the number of surgical threads used.
How long is the recovery time for a thread lift?
The recovery time for a surgical facelift is minimal, usually only 1–2 weeks, allowing facelift patients to resume regular activities in just a few days.
