Facial treatment with suspension threads is a cosmetic procedure that may be used to support and lift areas of skin affected by mild to moderate skin laxity. This minimally invasive procedure involves placing specialised absorbable threads beneath the skin to provide structural support to certain areas.
Over time, these threads gradually dissolve. During the healing process, the body may produce collagen around the threads as part of its natural response. This may contribute to changes in skin texture or firmness. Individual responses vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Unlike surgical facelift procedures, facial treatment with suspension threads is generally performed without major surgery and may involve shorter recovery times for some individuals. However, it is still a medical procedure and requires assessment by a qualified practitioner.
More information about this treatment is available here:
Thread lift Cranbourne
This treatment may be considered for areas such as the face, neck and décolletage depending on individual assessment. Suitability varies and a consultation with a qualified practitioner is required before treatment.
Types of facial treatments with suspension threads
Several types of suspension threads may be used depending on the treatment goal and the practitioner’s clinical assessment.
More information about thread types is available here:
Types of suspension threads
PDO threads (polydioxanone) are absorbable sutures that have been used in medicine for many years. In cosmetic procedures, these threads may be used to provide structural support beneath the skin and may stimulate collagen formation during healing.
Another type of thread used in aesthetic medicine includes PLLA threads (poly L lactic acid). These threads are designed to support deeper tissue layers and may encourage collagen formation over time.
Some thread designs include barbed or cog threads. These threads contain small barbs intended to anchor into tissue, which may provide additional support to areas of skin laxity.
Duration and suitable candidates
Facial treatment with suspension threads may be considered for adults with mild to moderate skin laxity who are seeking non surgical cosmetic options.
Suitability depends on several factors including skin condition, facial anatomy, medical history and treatment expectations. A consultation is required to determine whether the procedure may be appropriate.
An assessment by a qualified practitioner can be arranged here:
Choosing a practitioner
More details about related procedures are available here:
Other cosmetic procedures
Preparing for a facial treatment with suspension threads
Preparation usually begins with a consultation to discuss treatment goals, medical history and potential risks.
During this consultation, you may be asked about medications, supplements or herbal products you are taking, as some may increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.
Your practitioner may provide specific instructions before treatment. These may include avoiding certain medications prior to the procedure where medically appropriate.
Following pre-procedure instructions and attending the consultation helps support a safe treatment process.
Procedure overview
At the appointment, the practitioner will review the treatment plan and mark the areas where threads will be placed.
A local anaesthetic may be used to improve comfort during the procedure. Fine needles or cannulas are used to insert threads beneath the skin.
Once positioned, the threads provide structural support to the treated areas. The procedure duration varies depending on the number of areas treated.
Experiences vary between individuals. Some people may feel mild pressure or pulling sensations during the procedure.
Post procedure recovery
After the procedure, some individuals may experience swelling, bruising or mild discomfort in the treated areas. These effects often improve over time.
Many people are able to resume normal daily activities shortly after treatment, although strenuous activity may be avoided for a period as advised by the practitioner.
Some practitioners may recommend sleeping with the head elevated during the initial recovery period to help reduce swelling.
Follow up appointments may be arranged to assess healing and treatment outcomes.
Potential risks and side effects
As with any medical procedure, facial treatment with suspension threads carries potential risks.
Possible side effects may include swelling, bruising, discomfort, infection, asymmetry, visible or palpable threads, skin irregularities, scarring, nerve injury or unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
In rare cases, complications may require additional medical treatment.
Follow up care and when to seek medical advice
It is important to follow all aftercare instructions provided by the practitioner.
Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as:
- severe or worsening pain
- significant swelling
- fever
- unusual discharge or signs of infection
- persistent asymmetry or unusual skin changes
Early medical assessment may help manage complications if they occur.
Cost and longevity of results
Costs for facial treatment with suspension threads may vary depending on the practitioner, treatment area and number of threads used.
The duration of results varies between individuals and may be influenced by factors such as age, skin condition, metabolism and lifestyle. Some people may notice changes for several months following treatment, while others may consider additional treatments after a period of time.
Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed.
Risks and Recovery
Facial treatment with suspension threads is a medical procedure and carries risks. Potential complications may include pain, swelling, bruising, infection, thread migration, nerve injury, scarring, skin irregularities or unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
Recovery experiences vary between individuals. Some people may experience swelling or bruising for several days following treatment.
This information is general in nature and does not replace a medical consultation. A qualified medical practitioner must assess your suitability, explain potential risks and alternatives, and obtain informed consent before performing any procedure. Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or signs of infection following treatment.