Thread lift: what it is and when it is indicated

Lifting threads are absorbable threads with barbs, spicules or cones along the shaft, placed in the subcutaneous tissue to anchor and slightly reposition structures of the face. The most commonly used material is PDO (polydioxanone), but threads made of other absorbable polymers also exist.

The difference from smooth threads lies in the anchoring: while a smooth thread acts mainly as a collagen stimulus, a barbed thread grips the tissue and allows it to be pulled along a defined vector. As the thread is absorbed, the collagen formed around it helps maintain part of the support for some time.

Where are lifting threads usually used?

The concerns most associated with them are loss of definition of the jawline, sagging of the midface and mild laxity in the neck. Threads are often part of a combined plan with filler and biostimulation, rather than a standalone option.

What does the patient need to know?

The effect is discreet and temporary, and depends a lot on skin quality, tissue thickness and baseline laxity. In patients with marked laxity, the gain tends to be small. Possible complications include pain, swelling, bruising, irregularities and rippling, thread extrusion, asymmetry and infection.

The indication, type of thread and vector are defined by the qualified professional, according to the rules of their professional council in Brazil and after assessment.

In Harmy

Harmy does not have a specific point for threads. The projection works with volume per area, as in the jawline, and does not simulate traction.

Also known as: barbed PDO threads, spiculated threads, thread facelift.