Unraveling the Allure of Facial Treatment with Suspension Threads
In the quest for a refreshed appearance, some individuals consider facial treatment with suspension threads as a non-surgical option to address signs of ageing. This approach has become known for providing temporary support to areas of skin laxity and softening contour changes without traditional surgery. What differentiates suspension thread procedures from other wrinkle and lines or skin treatments? Below is an objective overview of the procedure, its potential benefits, limitations, and important risk information to help you make an informed decision.
The Art of Suspension Threads
This procedure uses dissolvable threads placed beneath the skin to provide support and a lifting effect. Threads are commonly made from materials such as polydioxanone (PDO) or polycaprolactone (PCL), which have been used in medical sutures. A consultation with a suitably qualified, registered health practitioner is required to assess your goals, medical history, and whether this option is appropriate for you.
The process begins with an assessment of facial anatomy, skin condition and desired outcomes. Based on this evaluation, a personalised plan is proposed, including the type and placement of threads, alternatives, costs and aftercare. Images used on this page are illustrative only and are not patient testimonials or before-and-after examples.
Collagen Stimulation and Lift
The potential benefit of suspension threads includes stimulation of collagen in some individuals, a protein that supports skin firmness and elasticity. Threads are introduced via a fine needle or cannula. Their presence may prompt a healing response that can increase collagen around the threads in certain people. Any immediate effect is mechanical support from the threads engaging tissue. Responses vary, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Over time, the threads gradually dissolve while the body’s response may continue for a period. The degree of visible change depends on individual factors such as skin quality, anatomy, and lifestyle. This procedure does not stop the ageing process.
Versatility and Customization
Suspension threads can be considered for selected areas including cheeks, jawline, neck and brows after assessment. In some cases a plan may combine this procedure with other options such as facial volume loss treatment, muscle relaxant treatment or energy-based skin treatments to support an overall strategy. Any combined approach must be clinically justified and discussed during consultation.
Personalisation involves selecting the number, type and placement of threads to suit the individual’s features. Suitability and expected degree of change are determined case by case.
Minimally Invasive with Individual Downtime
Compared with surgical procedures, facial treatment with suspension threads does not involve traditional surgical incisions. It is performed in a clinical setting with local anaesthetic for comfort. Downtime varies. Temporary swelling, bruising, tenderness and a feeling of tightness are common and usually resolve over several days, although timelines differ for each person.
Aftercare instructions will be provided and may include activity modifications, sleeping position guidance and skin care advice. Following these instructions supports recovery and helps reduce complications.
Expected Duration of Effect
Results are temporary. While individual experiences differ, some people notice effects for approximately 12 to 24 months. Longevity depends on factors such as thread type and number, skin quality, age, general health, and lifestyle. Maintenance treatments may be discussed where appropriate.
Considerations and Suitability
This option may suit individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity seeking a subtle, natural-looking enhancement. It is not a replacement for surgical procedures. If there is significant skin redundancy or advanced laxity, other approaches may be more appropriate. A consultation will cover alternatives, including no treatment.
Choosing the Right Practitioner
Choose a registered medical practitioner with training and experience in facial treatment with suspension threads. During consultation, ask about qualifications, the proposed plan, expected benefits, risks, aftercare, costs and follow-up. Clinics should not use testimonials. Images provided should be illustrative only and not depict before-and-after comparisons.
Potential Risks and Complications
All medical procedures carry risks. Possible adverse effects include bruising, swelling, pain, tightness, puckering or dimpling, contour irregularity, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, delayed healing, thread visibility or palpability, thread breakage or extrusion, scarring, temporary numbness, and unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome. Less common but serious risks include nerve or vessel injury, allergic reaction, granuloma and skin necrosis. Your practitioner will explain your personal risk profile and what to do if problems occur.
Managing Expectations
Realistic expectations are essential. Suspension threads can provide a noticeable yet conservative improvement in suitable candidates, but the effect is variable and cannot match the results of a surgical facelift. Your practitioner will outline likely benefits, limitations, and alternatives based on your assessment.
This procedure is one component of an overall strategy that may also include skin care, sun protection, lifestyle changes and, where appropriate, other treatments.
Longevity and Maintenance
Because threads dissolve gradually, any effect reduces over time. A tailored maintenance plan may be suggested depending on your response. Factors such as age, skin health and lifestyle can influence duration and overall outcome.
Alternative Treatments
Before proceeding, it is sensible to consider alternatives and compare their suitability. Options may include surgical procedures, facial volume loss treatment, muscle relaxant treatment or energy-based skin therapies. Each has benefits, risks, timelines and costs that should be discussed during consultation.
A thorough conversation with your practitioner will help determine which approach aligns with your goals and medical needs. Choosing no treatment is also a valid option.
Conclusion
Facial treatment with suspension threads offers a customisable, non-surgical option for selected concerns. It requires careful assessment, clear information about risks and limitations, and realistic expectations. If you wish to explore this further, arrange a consultation to discuss suitability, alternatives, costs and aftercare so you can make a well-informed decision.
Risks and Recovery
Important risk information: Not everyone is suitable for this procedure. Possible side effects include swelling, bruising, tenderness, tightness, puckering or dimpling, contour irregularity, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, delayed healing, thread visibility or extrusion, scarring and temporary numbness. Less common but serious complications include nerve or vessel injury, allergic reaction, granuloma and skin necrosis. Outcomes vary between individuals and cannot be promised. Images on this page are illustrative and are not patient testimonials or before-and-after comparisons.
Recovery guidance: Plan for several days of downtime. Follow all aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous exercise, heat exposure and facial massage for a period advised by your practitioner, and sleeping on your back with your head elevated initially if recommended. Attend scheduled reviews. Seek prompt care if you notice increasing pain, spreading redness, fever, discharge or other concerns.
Costs and consent: You will receive an itemised quote after consultation outlining the total cost, including any aftercare relevant to your plan. Informed consent is required and will cover risks, benefits, alternatives and expected recovery.