A thread lift is a surgical procedure for individuals who would like the skin on the face tightened, but do not want a facelift. A thread lift can provide similar results as a face lift, but is quicker, cheaper and, generally, a less involved procedure. Because the thread lift is a quicker and less invasive option, it is sometimes referred to as a "lunchtime facelift."
Procedure
A thread lift uses surgical sutures to lift sagging areas of the face and neck. The sutures are threaded under facial tissue with a thin needle. There are barbs located on the thread which grab and elevate the sagging skin.
The thread lift is performed on several different areas of the face. The middle face, brow and lower face all provide desired results with the procedure.
Candidate
Individuals who have a small amount of sagging skin are the best candidates for a thread lift. Most often, women elect to have a thread lift around the age of 40, as firm, youthful skin begins to be more relaxed.
Thread lifts are often times used in combination with other more extensive surgeries, such as a facelift or neck lift.
Advantages
The procedure does not require anesthesia, so it is less risky for individuals with health concerns. The is done in an office visit, so it is much cheaper than the facelift option. There are no incisions, stitches or scarring from the procedure. The thread lift typically takes only 1 to 2 hours to finish. The patient is able to view her appearance in the mirror during the procedure, and can evaluate the results.
Recovery
Assistance will be needed for the day of and day after the thread lift procedure. Only soft foods may be eaten for a week. The head should be elevated for the first day to minimize swelling and discomfort. The face should not be rubbed until recovery is complete. Over the counter medication may be taken for mild pain. Normal activities can be resumed after a week.
Complications
Although a thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure, it is still new, and many plastic surgeons are inexperienced at this procedure.
The biggest disappointment with the thread lift is minimal results. Many times a full facelift would have been a better choice to achieve desired results.
A rare complication of the thread lift is when the threads move later on, causing an unbalanced appearance.
Cost
The thread lift fee will vary from physician to physician, and depends on the area lifted. Each area requires a different number of threads. The average procedure, as of 2009, will cost around $2500. Since the thread lift is an elective procedure, most health insurance policies will not cover the cost.
Tags: thread lift, thread lift, areas face, desired results, lift procedure, lift quicker, sagging skin