As we age, facial lines become more noticeable. What if you could rewind without surgery? Facial threads offer a minimally invasive lift treatment, rejuvenating your skin for a fresher look. This guide explores facial threads, covering their benefits, risks, costs, and what to expect from this cosmetic procedure.
What are Facial Threads?
Facial threads are medical-grade sutures made of biocompatible materials. These are inserted under the skin to lift sagging skin and stimulate collagen production.
They act like scaffolding, supporting and structuring the skin. This subtly reshapes your face, adding definition and lift.
PDO thread lifts have existed since the 1990s.
Types of Facial Threads
PDO (polydioxanone) threads have been used in surgery since the 1980s. These threads dissolve, stimulating collagen growth.
PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) and PCA (polycaprolactone) threads are thicker. They provide longer-lasting results.
Benefits of Facial Threads
Facial threads offer several benefits compared to traditional facelifts. The thread lift procedure is less invasive than facelift surgery and takes less than an hour.
Many see it as an alternative to a facelift, with shorter recovery time. They lift sagging skin, smooth wrinkles, and boost collagen for natural-looking rejuvenation.
They subtly redefine facial contours and improve skin elasticity. Facial threads can also fill hollow areas.
Risks and Side Effects of Facial Threads
While thread lifts are generally safe, there are some risks. These include infection, thread migration, or breakage.
Minor thread lift complications, such as dimpling, occur in 15–20% of cases. These are often easily corrected.
Choosing a qualified practitioner like one of our team at Dr Sheila means they’ll follow professional healthcare standards, minimising the risk of any issues or side effects.
The Facial Threads Procedure
The practitioner applies local anaesthesia, minimising pain. They carefully insert threads using a thin needle or cannula. The thread lift typically takes around 45 minutes.
Some bruising and swelling might occur after the procedure, but this usually subsides in a few days. Follow aftercare instructions carefully. Avoid rubbing your face and excessive facial movements during recovery.
How Long Do Facial Threads Last?
Thread lift results typically last between one and three years. Some patients report results lasting up to nine years. Longevity varies due to individual factors.
Lifestyle choices also influence how long the effects last. Further treatments or touch-ups might be necessary to maintain results.
Cost of Facial Threads in the UK
Costs typically range from £800 to £2,400 but vary widely depending on your exact needs. The final thread lift cost depends on the number of threads used.
Elsewhere, prices can vary from about £600 for a single lift treatment. It can increase to over £3,200 for eight or more lifts (as noted by sk:n clinics).
Some clinics price threads individually, around £150 each. Usually, six to ten threads are used per treatment. Financing is often available, sometimes with payment plans lasting 3 to 48 months.
Facial Threads vs. Facelift
| Feature | Facial Threads | Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Surgical procedure |
| Downtime | Minimal downtime | Significant |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Results | Subtle, natural | More dramatic |
| Longevity | 1–3 years | 5–10 years |
A thread lift offers a subtle lift. This addresses mild sagging and can be considered a “pre-facelift.” It’s a less intensive step before potentially considering more extensive work in the future.
FAQs about facial threads
How long do facial threads last?
Results last one to three years. The thread lift isn’t permanent, so touch-ups might be needed.
What are the thread lift complications?
Potential downsides include infection, thread migration, and temporary dimpling. Some patients react differently to the subtler effects, experiencing different results than expected.
How much does a thread face lift cost in the UK?
The cost can vary. It typically ranges from around £800 to upwards of £2,400. Prices vary according to clinic, practitioner, the type of threads, and the number required.
Why do plastic surgeons not like threads?
Some surgeons believe threads don’t offer lasting improvement for significant facial skin laxity. They can be technically challenging. They pose similar risks as surgery, and there’s a risk of allergic reactions, and using the wrong thread.
Conclusion
Facial threads provide a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. This helps those seeking facial rejuvenation. Every individual is unique, so consulting a qualified practitioner such as one of our team is crucial.
Go into any procedure fully informed. This means understanding what facial threads can, and can’t, achieve for you. Discuss health conditions and any other cosmetic surgeries like dermal fillers or neck lifts you’ve had. Understand the procedure details and possible eyebrow thread lift or neck thread lift. Discuss the risks of bruising and swelling, allergic reaction and wrong threads, to make an informed decision and reduce the chance of thread lift complications.
If you have any questions about facial threads, or would like to book in an appointment to see how they could help you, then get in touch, we’re here to help you feel your best!
