Face & Neck Thread Lift Treatment

Non-surgical facelift treatment

What Is Thread Lift?

Thread lift is a non-surgical, minimally-invasive facelift technique using sutures which are commonly referred to as threads.

Thread lift treatment is carried out using FDA-approved dissolvable PDO (Polydioxanone) threads. These are available in different lengths and textures. Mono threads are smooth in texture and, they promote thickening and tightening of skin by stimulating collagen. Usually, these are 12-60mm long. Cog threads contain barbs that hook onto the skin. Therefore, these help in lifting the skin. Cogs are generally 50-90mm in length. Screw threads have one or two intertwined threads, and they reposition facial fat and restore sunken areas. Their normal length is 25-60mm. The absorption of PDO threads completes in about one year without leaving any residues.

The threads are inserted beneath the skin to reposition sagging skin or plump up wrinkles and lines, resulting in a semi-permanent lifting effect. Apart from skin regeneration benefits from collagen synthesis and skin tightening, it also brings about overall improvements to the skin tone and skin quality.

The Thread Lift does not involve any incisions, hence, it does not leave any visible scars on the skin and requires shorter recovery time as compared to traditional lifting surgeries.

There are two main types of thread lift for skin and face rejuvenation. Depending on the skin laxity and the desired outcome, our surgeon will recommend the thread lift that is suitable for your skin condition.

How Does Thread Lifting Work? 

Face Thread Lift plumps and lifts the skin through in two ways. These include:
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Mechanical Lifting Effect: It uses threads as a scaffolding structure for skin tissues so that the new shape can be supported well. Depressions appear in the skin when there are empty spaces due to a lack of collagen. In this procedure, PDO threads are stacked in those specific areas as compensation for that volume deficiency. The threads thicken the skin and lift it. Therefore, the filled-up areas appear smoother and more lifted. By that, these threads provide additional support to the surrounding tissue. The screw threads are the most helpful type in supplying the mechanical lifting effect. The entry points of the threads should be decided before the procedure. The mechanical lifting effect lasts until the threads dissolve.
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Biomechanical Lifting Effect: The thread lift procedure also triggers the production of collagen that helps boost and sustain skin rejuvenation and tightening. In this instance, the threads act as foreign materials that induce the production of new fibroblast cells to produce more and more collagen (fibrosis). Hence, the type of the thread does not matter for the occurrence of the biochemical lifting effect. Unlike the mechanical impact, this lasts even after the threads dissolve, as it can induce new collagen production along the path of the thread even after absorption. Therefore, the biochemical lifting effect help in providing a longer-lasting result from thread lift.

Types Of Thread Lifting

Mega V-Lift

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  • For mild to moderate facial sagging
  • For enhancing v-line contour
Dissolvable thread lift uses FDA-approved PDO threads that will be broken down naturally by the body’s enzymes. Commonly used to regenerate collagen and elastin fibres vital for anti-ageing, it helps to improve wrinkles, and firms and lifts the skin for a slimmer V-line effect. PDO thread lift results can last for approximately 1 year or more depending on the individual’s lifestyle and habits.

Mesh Lift

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  • For moderate facial sagging
  • Improves deep laugh lines
  • Improves facial contours 
The dissolvable threads for a moderate lift comes with mini barbs for better grip and also allow skin tissues to adhere better. It produces better lifting results and is a good option for those who want more dramatic facelift results without the down-time. Both thread and barbs will eventually be broken down by the body’s enzymes, and new collagen and elastin fibres will fill in and the skin will feel tighter and more lifted. Moderate thread lift can be used to achieve similar effects to brow lift, facelift and neck lift surgeries. Depending on one’s expectations, the surgeon will recommend the number of threads to achieve the desired results. A moderate lift can last for approximately 3 years or more depending on the individual’s lifestyle and habits.

The Advantages Of Thread Lifting

  • No scarring
  • Short surgery time
  • Similar effects to facelift but with minimal swelling and downtime
  • Results are immediate
  • Little to no pain during the procedure

Who Is Suitable For Thread Lifting? 

Thread lift is recommended for individuals who:
  • Wish to achieve slimmer V-line without surgery
  • Wish to reduce lines and wrinkles around the eyes, nasolabial, forehead and neck
  • Wish to achieve lifting effects for the cheeks, lower face and double-chin
  • Wish to achieve tighter, firmer and younger looking skin.
  • For individuals with minor to moderate skin laxity issues.

Areas Suitable For Thread Lifting

With PDO threadlift almost all the areas on the face could be treated. Some common face threadlift sites include:
  • Eyebrows
  • Under Eye area
  • Crow’s feet (wrinkles around eyes)
  • Sunken tear trough
  • Nasolabial folds (laugh lines)
  • Cheeks
  • Wrinkles around the mouth
  • Jowls
  • Jawline
  • Neck

What To Expect When Getting Thread Lift Treatment?

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The face thread lift treatment process is simple. It is a simple lunchtime procedure with minimal recovery time. The process is as follows;
  • The provider will apply a topical numbing cream on the treatment site and wait for a few minutes.
  • After the cream takes effect, the treatment will start.
  • Threads will be inserted into the dermis of the skin using fine needles. This is to plump and regenerate cells around the target site.
  • Depending on the treatment area, the procedure might take about 30 minutes to an hour.
You have the option of having the treatment under sedation or not. Typically, there is little to no sight effect following the treatment. However, in some cases, you might experience numbness, mild pain, bruising and slight swelling, which will disappear within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Thread Lift in Singapore

A Polydioxanone thread or commonly known as “PDO thread” is a specialized thread that can be broken down by the body naturally. The thread is very fine and depending on the treatment outcome, different threads may be used to achieve the desired treatment results.

A wide variety of PDO threads are available and they are ideal for different areas or concerns. Your doctor will decide the type of thread based on the region and the extent of change that is expected.  The commonly used PDO threads include:

  • Mono thread
  • Cog thread
  • Screw thread

Cog threads are frequently used to improve a patient’s profile by lifting the saggy skin of the neck and jaw region. On the other hand, those patients who demand addition to the cheeks are provided with screw threads.

Screw threads are ideal for plumping and increasing the tissue volume in deficient areas.

This is the most common inquiry from the patients. No, there will be no visible threads once they are inserted beneath the skin.

The threads are inserted under the skin, therefore, there is no chance of them being visible. However, you can feel them inside during the initial phase of recovery but that lasts for a few days only.

PDO thread lift procedure is a quick process. The length of the procedure depends upon the target area and it takes approximately 45-60 minutes to complete. However, pre- and post-procedure may require additional time. Hence you are expected to spend around 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

Although some swelling and bruising may be expected, visible results can be seen after the treatment. Wrinkles on the skin are less noticeable and skin appears tauter. The ultimate benefit of this effective procedure is that it promotes collagen production in the skin. With an increase in collagen, the sagging in the skin is reduced, and healing is improved.

The thread lift procedure does not require general anesthesia. Local anesthetic or IV sedation can be effectively used to provide a painless and comfortable experience.

The soreness and pain following the procedure are rare. If present, these minor postoperative issues can be managed with regular painkillers.

Anyone can take advantage of the procedure if he or she is an ideal candidate for the procedure. The average age of people receiving thread lift is 30 to 60 years old. Anyone who is experiencing skin sagging and does not wish to go major facelift surgery can consider thread lift for facial rejuvenation.

After the procedure, you may experience swelling and bruising in the first 7 to 10 days. The swelling and bruising can be easily alleviated using cold compresses. It is also important to stick to the post-procedure care guidelines and keep the facial compression band on for as long as possible during the initial recovery.

For a smoother recovery, one should:

  • Avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous activities at least 2-3 weeks
  • Try sleeping on your back and in an elevated position
  • Abstain from stretching or massaging the face

It is generally not advised to drive after the procedure because of the side effects from your sedation. If you prefer to commute by car, do have a family member or friend drive you home after the procedure. You can resume driving the next day onwards.

It is recommended that you wait for at least 3 to 4 days before applying sunscreens, moisturizers or makeup. Generally, the use of a light concealer to cover post operative bruising is allowed. However, one has to be mindful of the application techniques as excessive rubbing motion can affect the placement of the threads.

Alternatively, check with the doctor if you can resume your skin care and makeup routine.

You can resume light exercises such as stretching and walking a week after the procedure. However, you are advised to avoid any activity that puts a strain on the treated skin. Stay away from strenuous exercises and weightlifting for at least 1 week or you may consult your surgeon before resuming them.

In general, there are no special preparations required for thread lift procedure. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and you should be clear of all ambiguities before the start of the procedure. Ask any question you want to from your doctor. 

The surgeon cautiously carried out a selection test to check which patient meets the selection criteria. This includes evaluating a patient’s facial features, presence of asymmetries, grade of skin sagging and its condition. The age of the patient is also important. This evaluation is necessary to make a decision of the type of thread required and the method to be employed.

Patients with extra skin and heavy tissue may be recommended to undergo surgical procedures because in such cases thread lift can bring about only limited change. Therefore, patients should be well informed of the extent of the changes. It makes it easier to comply with.

You must inform the doctor regarding any treatment that you have already undergone. A complete history of the medicines you use should also be given to the doctor.

There are several factors that contribute to the costs of thread lift in Singapore. These include:

  • Thread type and brand
  • Treatment site and the number of threads required for the procedure
  • Doctor’s experience and expertise

Generally, a face thread lift procedure can cost around $4000-$7000 in Singapore. The exact cost varies for every case depending on the factors mentioned above. In Singapore, only a plastic surgeon can perform threadlift. So, make sure that you find an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to carry out the procedure.

While it may not be possible to achieve permanent results with any lifting technique available today, the results achieved with a thread lift can last through 1-2 years or longer. However, the results can be extended longer by using thread ‘top up’ techniques from time to time. It is also possible to maintain results with the help of non-invasive treatments and enjoy prolonged facial rejuvenation benefits.

A thread lift is generally a safe and effective treatment option for lifting and rejuvenating the skin. In most cases, instant results can be achieved after a thread lift. As your face continues to heal, the body produces new collagen as its natural healing response, and the results become more prominent.

A thread lift can be a great choice to pull the jawline, chin, and jowls back into place and reduce the drooping effect. You can achieve a more youthful facial profile through a thread lift procedure without undergoing major surgery where you need up to 2 weeks for recovery and around 4 weeks before you could resume vigorous activity. Surgical procedures also come with risks of skin loss and poor wound healing, skin irregularities, discoloration, and sutures surfacing through the skin and becoming visible or causing irritation. Considering the costs, a thread lift procedure is totally worth it both for men and women.