Thread lifts have become increasingly popular as a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting specialized threads beneath the skin to lift and tighten areas that have started to show signs of aging, such as sagging cheeks, jowls, and the neck area. While thread lifts offer a more subtle alternative to traditional facelifts, many patients are curious about the materials used in the threads and their safety.
In this blog, we will explore the materials that threads are made of, their safety profile, and how these materials work to provide effective and long-lasting results.
Types of Threads Used in Thread Lifts
Thread lifts are performed using threads that are carefully inserted into the skin using a needle or cannula. These threads are made from various materials, each with unique properties that contribute to the procedure’s lifting and rejuvenating effects. The most common materials used in thread lifts are PDO (Polydioxanone), PLA (Poly-L-lactic acid), and PLLA (Poly-L-lactic acid). Let’s take a closer look at each of these materials:
1. PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads
PDO is one of the most commonly used materials for thread lifts. It is a biocompatible, biodegradable material that has been used in medical procedures, such as sutures, for decades. PDO threads are thin, flexible, and strong, making them ideal for lifting and tightening the skin.
- Biodegradability: PDO threads are completely biodegradable, which means they are gradually absorbed by the body over time. This process typically takes between 6 to 12 months.
- Collagen Stimulation: As PDO threads dissolve, they stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin structure and elasticity, and its production helps to improve the skin’s texture and firmness, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
- Safety: PDO is widely regarded as a safe material for thread lifting. It has been extensively used in surgical sutures and other medical applications, and its safety profile is well-established. Since PDO threads dissolve naturally, there is no need for removal, and the risk of complications is low.
2. PLLA (Poly-L-lactic acid) Threads
PLLA is another biocompatible material used in thread lifts. It is a synthetic substance that stimulates collagen production in a similar way to PDO but has a slightly different mechanism of action.
- Gradual Effects: PLLA threads work by stimulating collagen production over a longer period. Unlike PDO threads, which provide immediate lifting effects, PLLA threads require some time before the collagen stimulation becomes apparent, often taking several weeks or months.
- Long-Lasting Results: PLLA threads can provide results that last longer than PDO threads, often up to 2 years, as the collagen production continues to improve the skin’s appearance over time.
- Safety: PLLA has been used in various medical applications, including injectable fillers and sutures, for many years. The material is biocompatible and gradually breaks down in the body, reducing the risk of complications. However, because of the longer time required for the collagen stimulation process, patients may need to be patient in seeing the full results.
3. PLA (Poly-Lactic Acid) Threads
PLA threads are similar to PLLA in terms of their structure and function, but they are used less frequently in thread lifts. Like PLLA, PLA threads stimulate collagen production and are biodegradable.
- Collagen Stimulation: PLA threads also work by encouraging the body to produce collagen, which gradually improves the skin’s strength and elasticity.
- Safety: PLA is a safe, biodegradable material that has been used in medical applications for many years. Its biocompatibility is well-established, and it is considered to be a safe option for thread lifting.
How Do These Threads Work?
When the threads are inserted under the skin, they create a lifting effect by physically pulling the skin and underlying tissues upwards. As the threads dissolve over time, they trigger the body’s natural healing process, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. This promotes long-term improvement in the skin’s appearance, helping to restore volume and firmness.
The threads are usually inserted using a fine needle or cannula, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia. There are different types of threads designed to achieve specific effects:
- Smooth Threads: These threads are used primarily to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity. They do not provide a significant lifting effect but are ideal for patients who want to restore skin firmness and reduce fine lines.
- Cogged or Barbed Threads: These threads have tiny barbs or cogs along the length of the thread, which grip the skin and create a more noticeable lifting effect. They are ideal for lifting sagging skin on the face, neck, and jawline.
The combination of thread material, insertion technique, and the patient’s individual skin condition contributes to the overall effectiveness of the thread lift in achieving natural-looking results.
Are Thread Materials Safe?
Thread lifts are generally considered safe, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that patients should be aware of. Let’s explore the safety profile of the materials used in thread lifts:
1. Biocompatibility and FDA Approval
PDO, PLLA, and PLA are all biocompatible materials, meaning they are well-tolerated by the body. Biocompatibility ensures that the materials do not cause an adverse immune response or irritation. PDO threads, in particular, have been used in medical sutures for over 30 years, and they are FDA-approved for use in various medical applications. PLLA and PLA are also FDA-approved for use in aesthetic procedures, including thread lifts and dermal fillers.
2. Low Risk of Allergic Reactions
Since PDO, PLLA, and PLA threads are made from synthetic or biocompatible materials, the risk of an allergic reaction is very low. These materials are designed to be absorbed by the body without causing harm or irritation. However, as with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the anesthetic or other components used during the treatment.
3. Minimal Side Effects
The most common side effects of thread lifts are temporary and generally mild. These include:
- Swelling: Swelling is a natural response to the insertion of threads and typically subsides within a few days.
- Bruising: Some bruising can occur at the site of the needle insertions, but it typically resolves within a week or two.
- Tenderness or Tightness: After the procedure, patients may experience a sensation of tightness or mild discomfort as the skin adjusts to the threads. This is usually short-lived.
- Infection: While rare, there is a risk of infection at the insertion sites. This risk is minimized by following proper aftercare instructions and ensuring the procedure is performed under sterile conditions.
4. Dissolution and Absorption
PDO threads gradually dissolve in the body over 6 to 12 months. As they dissolve, they are absorbed without causing any harm to the body. PLLA and PLA threads may take longer to dissolve, but they are also absorbed safely. Since the threads are designed to break down naturally, there is no need for removal, and the risk of complications related to foreign objects in the body is minimal.
Who Should Avoid Thread Lifts?
While thread lifts are generally safe for most individuals, some patients may not be suitable candidates for the procedure. It is important to consult with a qualified practitioner before undergoing a thread lift to ensure that it is the right option for you.
You may not be a good candidate for a thread lift if you:
- Have active skin infections or severe acne in the treatment area
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a history of keloid scarring or poor wound healing
- Are taking medications that affect your blood’s ability to clot (such as blood thinners)
Conclusion
Thread lifts are a safe and effective option for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. The materials used in thread lifts, such as PDO, PLLA, and PLA, are biocompatible, FDA-approved, and designed to stimulate collagen production in the skin, leading to long-lasting results. These materials have been extensively tested in both medical and aesthetic applications, and the risks associated with their use are minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced practitioner.