Introduction | Understanding the risks is the first step to choosing a treatment you won't regret.
Thread lifts are a procedure that is becoming increasingly popular each year, but it is not a procedure that should be taken lightly. As with all cosmetic treatments, medical procedures always carry risks.
This article outlines six potential problems that can occur with thread lifts, explaining their causes and how to avoid them. Please read this as background information to help those considering the procedure understand what to ask about during their consultation.
- Six potential problems and their causes with thread lifts
- The mechanism behind "why" each problem occurs
- Important things to do to avoid trouble
Six problems that can occur with thread lifts
① Twitching
Thread lifting is a procedure that uses threads with barbs (cogs) to hook and move subcutaneous fat.
The thread is close to the skinshallow layerWhen the sutures are inserted, the skin is pulled along with them when the sutures are lifted, which can cause a pulling sensation along the sutures. If the sutures are removed at an early stage, there will be no problem, but if left as is, the skin will adhere in that shape, leaving a permanent pulling sensation.
②Infection
A major advantage of thread lifts is that they can be done with just one needle prick. While smaller wounds reduce the risk of infection, it's not zero.
If the procedure is performed in an unsanitary manner or if a hair gets trapped in the needle hole, the infection can spread along the suture. In mild cases, oral antibiotics can improve the condition, but in the worst cases, it may be necessary to incise the skin and remove the infected suture.
The non-absorbable sutures of the past often led to infections several years later and were eventually phased out. Since the introduction of absorbable sutures, infections have become almost nonexistent.It's important to recognize that it's "not zero".It will be.
③ Slanted eyes
Depending on the placement of the threads, it may lift the outer corner of the eye. This can give the impression of "slanted eyes," where the outer corner of the eye appears to be upturned.Pre-designIt is important to prevent it.
④ Your face looks big
Thread lifts can only move fat by a maximum of about 5 cm. If threads are inserted only along the jawline and lifted, the fat from the jawline will gather at the level of the cheekbones, resulting in excessive volume in the mid-face and making the face appear larger.
To avoid this,A design that also lifts the mid-face.It needs to be done this way.
⑤ Difficulty opening the mouth
The lower jaw has a structure that allows it to open and close like a castanet. If the threads used in a thread lift are brought inside the marionette lines, the threads will be in a tug-of-war with the lower jaw's attempt to open, making it difficult to open the mouth after the procedure.
To avoid this,A design that runs vertically around the outside of the face.It needs to be done this way.
⑥Irregularities
A person's face looks different when they are sitting compared to when they are lying on their back. This is because the direction of gravity is different. When sitting, gravity acts downwards, and when lying down, gravity acts backwards.
The lifting of threads is, of courseWhile sittingYou should do it. If you lift it while lying down, unexpected bumps and ridges may occur when you stand up and the direction of gravity changes.
Important things to do to avoid trouble
We have looked at six problems so far, and all of themTrouble with a clear causeThis can be avoided through careful design and technique of the procedure, including the layer to insert the threads, the design of the procedure, and the patient's posture during the procedure.
- Tightness/unevenness → The layer in which the thread is inserted and the posture during the procedure are appropriate.
- Upturned eyes, face appears large, mouth is difficult to open → This indicates that the pre-design was appropriate.
- Infection → Clean treatment environment and understanding that the risk is not zero.
That's why thread liftsIt should be done by an experienced doctor.This is important. During the consultation, it's a good idea to ask about the design philosophy and the layers in which the threads are placed.
Summary
- Thread lifts also carry risks as a medical procedure and should not be undertaken lightly.
- The six possible problems are: contracture, infection, slanted eyes, face appearing larger, difficulty opening the mouth, and unevenness.
- In all cases, the cause is clear and can be avoided with appropriate design and technique.
- It is important to receive thorough pre-procedure counseling from an experienced physician.
During our consultations, we explain the design tailored to each individual's bone structure and fat distribution before proceeding with the treatment. Please feel free to discuss any risks or concerns you may have.
*This article is a revised version based on an article written by Chief Director Shiramizu.
*The way risks and side effects manifest varies from person to person. Please consult with us during your consultation for more details.
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