5 tips to your best thread lift recovery

Do you have sagging skin on your face and neck that you would like to tighten without surgery?  A thread lift may be the perfect solution for you.   A thread lift is suitable for both men and women and requires less recovery time than a surgical facelift.  But what exactly is a thread lift, and what are some effective tips to your best thread lift recovery.

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What exactly is a thread lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure in which temporary threads are used to lift the skin, to reduce noticeable wrinkles and folds.   The procedure is typically performed using PDO (polydioxanone) threads, which are dissolvable medical-grade sutures.  PDO threads are frequently used in surgical procedures, so they are FDA approved, and safe for use in the body.   

What happens during a thread lift?

During a thread lift, very thin needles are used to insert the PDO threads under the skin, after which they are pulled into position, in order to suspend and lift the loose skin.  The threads are completely absorbed by the body over a period of 4-6 months.

As the threads are absorbed, they stimulate the production of collagen, which is a protein that gives skin its plump, youthful appearance.  The skin will, therefore, appear healthier and firmer in the following months.

A thread lift is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

5 tips to your best thread lift recovery

1.   Apply a cold pack.  Some doctors recommend applying a cold pack immediately after a thread lift.  Patients can continue using a cold pack about 4-5 times per day, for up to 5 days.  This will help minimize swelling and bruising.

2.   Wash the face gently:  Your face will be sore and slightly swollen after a thread lift, so it’s important to treat it gently.  It’s best to avoid rubbing or wiping the face, simply pat it gently after cleansing your skin.

3.   Avoid excessive facial movements: The face will be very tight in the areas where the threads were anchored, so even normal expressions such as laughing or smiling may feel painful.  It’s also best to take very small bites when eating and eat only soft foods for the first few days. 

4.   Sleep on your back: Sleeping on your back for at least 3-5 nights post-procedure, will help ensure that the threads don’t shift out of position, or break.

5.   Limit physical exercise: Strenuous exercise can strain the treated area, and should, therefore, be avoided.

Dental treatments and facial massages should also be avoided for at least 2 weeks after a thread lift.

Recovery after a thread lift

Some post-procedural discomfort is normal after a thread lift and typically lasts for 48 hours.  Over-the-counter pain medicine can be used to ease any discomfort.  Recovery after a thread lift is generally quick, and most patients are able to resume normal activities the next day. 

Following these 5 simple tips will certainly help to make recovery a lot easier after a thread lift, but patients should always adhere to the instructions of their plastic surgeon.

Below are some of the questions patients frequently ask about thread lift recovery.

When can I go back to work?

Most patients are able to return to work the day after the procedure, but this can vary depending on the type of job.  If you have a physically demanding job, you may require more time off.

When can I put makeup on?

Makeup can usually be applied 24-48 hours after a thread lift.

When can I wash my face?

You can wash your face the day of the procedure, but this should be done gently, without pulling or rubbing the skin.

When will I see results?

Patients usually see some tightening and lifting of the skin right after the procedure, but improvements will continue over the following months as new collagen develops.  The results of a thread lift typically last 12-18 months.

Would you like to tackle facial skin laxity without surgery?  A thread lift can get you looking your best, with minimal downtime.

If you are in the New York, NY area, contact Anand Medical Spa for a consultation.

Call 212-653-0366 today to schedule an appointment.