As collagen and elastin fibers in the skin structure decrease due to the effects of advanced age and gravity, a significant loosening and downward displacement occurs in facial features. These changes, which manifest especially in the cheeks, jawline, and neck area, can impose a more tired or sad expression on the individual than they actually are. Today, thread face lift (thread lifting) application is a modern aesthetic method that aims to reduce these effects without the need for surgical intervention. In this procedure, tissues are mechanically moved upwards and facial features are reshaped via special medical threads placed under the skin.
The threads used are produced from bio-compatible materials that are compatible with the body and can dissolve spontaneously over time. In this way, the procedure offers both a safe and natural healing process. The threads not only create a lifting effect (the effect of upward recovery and tension of the face); additionally, they help the skin gain a tighter and more elastic appearance by supporting collagen production in the surrounding tissues. This process provides a long-term renewal and vitality effect on the skin. Patients can generally return to their daily lives quickly after the procedure, which can be applied in a short time under local anesthesia.
Medical Aesthetic Specialist Dr. Lida Çiteli explained which areas the thread face lift application, which aims to give the skin a more vigorous and youthful appearance without requiring surgical procedures, is performed on, its advantages, and the points to be considered after the procedure.
What is Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting)?
Thread face lift (thread lift), also known as the French lift, is a minimally invasive medical aesthetic procedure applied without requiring surgical incisions in order to reduce sagging and tissue loosening that occur in the skin due to the aging process and the effect of gravity. This method ensures that saggy tissues are mechanically moved upwards through biocompatible (compatible with the body) threads placed under the skin that can dissolve spontaneously over time. At the same time, it is a non-surgical rejuvenation procedure that contributes to the formation of a tighter, more vibrant, and youthful facial contour by stimulating the skin's natural collagen production.
How is the Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting) Procedure Performed and How Long Does It Take?
The thread face lift procedure starts primarily with the sterilization of the areas to be treated and the application of local anesthesia for the patient's comfort. Then, entry is made into the lower layers of the skin with the help of thin-tipped ready-made cannulas (small tubes) from points determined according to the treatment plan. Through these cannulas, threads produced from biocompatible material such as polydioxanone (PDO) and containing small hooks called "cogs" are placed under the skin. This hooked structure allows the threads to hold onto the soft tissues, contributing to the repositioning of saggier areas in the desired direction.
After the threads are placed in the correct position, a lifting effect is created on the skin by applying a controlled stretching process by the physician, and the facial contour is reshaped. The procedure is completed by removing the cannulas; it usually does not require surgical incisions or stitches. Although the procedure time varies depending on the application area, it mostly takes between 30–60 minutes. In addition to the mechanical support effect created by the threads after the application, the collagen synthesis that develops over time contributes to tightening the skin and improving tissue quality.
To Which Areas Can Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting) Be Applied?
Thread face lift (thread lift) is performed as a non-surgical recovery and tightening method in areas where sagging and loosening are seen in the face and neck region. With correct patient selection in this application, effective results can be obtained for the following aesthetic procedures:
Lower Face and Jawline (Jawline Aesthetics)
It is one of the areas where aging symptoms are most commonly seen. Cheek tissue that sags due to gravity and volume loss can be moved upwards to make the jawline more distinct and sharp. The appearance of lines extending downwards from the corners of the mouth (marionette lines), which make the face look tired or sad, can be alleviated.
Mid-Face and Cheekbone Area
It plays a critical role in the young and dynamic appearance of the face. Deep lines extending from the edge of the nose to the corner of the mouth (nasolabial folds) can be softened by moving the tissues upwards. A fuller, balanced, and younger facial line appearance can be achieved by recovering sagging and volume loss in the cheekbone area.
Eyebrows and Eye Area
It is a sensitive area that directly affects the gaze expression. A low eyebrow structure can be brought to a more open and dynamic expression by moving the eyebrows and surrounding soft tissues upwards. By slightly supporting the outer corner of the eye upwards and outwards, a more slanted and distinct eye appearance (almond eye effect) can be obtained.
Neck and Jowl Area
It is one of the areas where aging can be noticed quickly. A clearer profile appearance can be achieved by recovering and supporting the loose tissues under the chin (jowl area). Improvement can be provided in the appearance of horizontal neck lines and slight sagging.
Nose Tip Lifting
It is not a permanent and surgical rhinoplasty alternative. It can be preferred as a supportive application in selected patients. The profile balance can be improved by giving a slight lifting effect to the tip of the nose with the appropriate technique.
Do Thread Face Lift Results Differ According to Skin Type?
Thread face lift (thread lift) is not a method that is equally effective for every skin type. The success of the application varies depending on skin structure, age, tissue quality, and the degree of sagging. People with mild and moderate skin laxity whose skin elasticity is preserved can generally achieve more successful and natural results. Especially in thin-to-medium thickness skins with good collagen production capacity, both recovery and an increase in skin quality are observed. In contrast;
- In cases where there is advanced sagging and significant wrinkles, thread applications may not provide a sufficient lifting effect; surgical face lift may be a more suitable alternative for these patients.
- In very thin skin with decreased elasticity, the holding capacity of the threads may be limited.
- In thick, oily, and heavy skin structures, the results obtained may remain more limited since the gravity effect is greater.
For this reason, the thread face lift procedure is an application that requires a personalized evaluation. The most accurate approach should be determined by a specialist physician in line with the patient's facial anatomy, skin quality, and expectations.
What are the Advantages of Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting) Application?
Thread face lift (thread lift) is a minimally invasive method preferred as an alternative to surgery and offers many advantages:
Does Not Require Surgical Procedure: It does not require incisions or stitches; in this way, tissue trauma is kept to a minimum and natural facial expressions are completely preserved.
Application with Local Anesthesia: It is a procedure that can be completed in an average of 30-60 minutes under local anesthesia, without the risks and side effects of general anesthesia.
Fast Recovery Process: A large portion of patients can return to their daily lives within a short time after the procedure. Mild bruising or edema usually disappears spontaneously within a few days.
No Risk of Scarring: Since the threads are placed through micro-entry holes, no permanent marks are formed on the skin surface.
Instant and Gradual Effect: The lifting effect is observed immediately after the procedure; results become even more distinct in the following weeks with the increase in collagen and elastin production.
Customizable Design: It can be specifically planned according to the sagging rate and asymmetry in the individual's facial anatomy.
Safe and Reversible: The medical threads used are bio-compatible and completely absorbed by the body. The fact that the results are reversible offers a more flexible revision opportunity compared to surgical operations.
What Should Be Considered After Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting)?
Following specialist recommendations in the post-procedure period is important both for the permanence of the results and for reducing the risk of complications:
- Sleeping face down should be avoided for the first 2–3 days.
- No pressure should be applied to the application area for the first 5–7 days; massage, scrubbing, and harsh skin care should not be applied.
- Excessive use of facial expressions, wide mouth opening movements, and chewing gum should be limited for about 1 week.
- Hot environments such as intense exercise, sauna, Turkish bath, and steam bath should be avoided for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Sun protection is important; direct sun exposure should be avoided, and appropriate sunscreen should be used.
- Dental treatment or procedures that may strain the facial area should be postponed for the first 2–3 weeks.
- Mild edema, bruising, or sensitivity may be seen; this situation usually improves spontaneously in a short time.
What are the Things to Consider After Thread Face Lift?
The first weeks after the application are a critical process in which the threads are fully integrated into the tissue and collagen synthesis is triggered. The following rules should be observed for ideal results:
- Sleeping Position and Pressure
To minimize the effect of gravity and prevent the threads from moving out of place for the first 3-5 days, one should sleep on their back, using a double pillow if necessary. For the first 1 week, the facial area should not be rubbed, and the use of harsh towels and facial massage should be avoided.
- Movement and Expression Control
Wide mouth movements such as excessive laughing, stretching, and shouting should be avoided for the first 1 week. Very hard foods (apples, hard meat, etc.) should not be consumed and gum should not be chewed for the first few days.
- Heat Exposure and Hygiene Rules
Sauna, Turkish bath, solarium, and excessively hot showers should be avoided for the first 2 weeks. Heat can increase edema and affect the structure of the threads (depending on the type). Makeup should not be applied and water should not be touched to the application areas for the first 24 hours after the procedure.
- Daily Activities and Treatment Process
Light walks can be done, but at least 10-14 days should be waited for heavy sports, movements where the head is bent down, and high-tempo exercises. Since dental treatments stretch the jawline and cheeks, such appointments should be postponed for at least 3 weeks.
- Possible Side Effects and Management
In order to help control mild swelling (edema) and bruising that may occur after the procedure, cold compresses can be applied at the times and intervals recommended by the doctor. The skin may be more sensitive to UV rays while in the healing process; it is recommended to use high-factor sunscreen to reduce the risk of pigmentation.
In Which Situations is Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting) Not Recommended?
Thread face lift (thread lift) is a medical aesthetic application that is not suitable for every patient and must be planned by evaluating individual health status. It is not recommended to be applied in individuals with an active infection or inflammatory condition in the procedure area due to the risk of infection. In addition, the procedure should be examined with sensitivity, especially in uncontrolled diabetes patients, as delays in wound healing and the risk of complications may increase. It may also not be suitable for individuals with bleeding or clotting disorders or those using blood thinners due to the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure.
The procedure is generally not recommended for individuals with active and advanced-stage oncological diseases and individuals with severe autoimmune diseases that affect the balance of the immune system. During pregnancy and breastfeeding periods, thread face lift application is not preferred due to limited safety data. In addition, people with known allergies or hypersensitivity to the thread materials used must share this situation with their physician. The procedure may also not be deemed suitable for patients whose general health status is not appropriate or who do not have realistic expectations. Therefore, performing a detailed physician evaluation before the application is of great importance in terms of patient safety and obtaining successful results.
How are Thread Face Lift (Thread Lifting) Prices Determined?
The prices of thread face lift application are not fixed and vary depending on many factors. The area to be treated and the width of the procedure area, the number of threads to be used, and the technical features of the threads, the targeted lifting level, and the personalized treatment plan are determining elements in pricing. Additionally, the experience of the physician performing the procedure and the clinical conditions in which the application is performed are among the important factors affecting the cost. Since every patient's facial structure and needs are different, the most accurate pricing can only be determined specifically for the individual after a detailed examination.
To Which Regions Does Dr. Lida Çiteli Provide Thread Face Lift Services?
Medical Aesthetic Specialist Dr. Lida Çiteli, who serves in her clinic in Istanbul, offers personalized thread face lift (thread lift) applications to patients coming from all over Turkey and from abroad via health tourism.
Thread Lift Hakkında Sıkça Sorulan Sorular
No, dynamic threads (thread face lift applications) do not stop the aging process. Aging is a biologically ongoing natural process. This application contributes to the formation of a younger, dynamic, and more vibrant facial expression by reducing the appearance of sagging and loosening caused by gravity and tissue loss over time. Additionally, thanks to the mechanical effect created by the threads under the skin, collagen production is stimulated; this can contribute to a partial improvement in skin quality and elasticity. However, this effect is not about stopping aging, but rather supporting the existing skin quality and improving the appearance.
Thread face lift application is a suitable medical aesthetic option for individuals generally between the ages of 35–60 who do not want to take the risks of a surgical operation but aim to alleviate skin changes due to aging. This method gives more successful results especially in people who have developed volume loss in the cheek area, whose jawline definition has partially begun to fade, or where a slight drop in eyebrow position is observed, and whose skin elasticity is not completely lost. Since it is a minimally invasive procedure, it does not require general anesthesia and the recovery process is usually short. With this feature, it is a suitable alternative for people who do not want to take a break from their busy social and professional lives, aim for a natural-looking rejuvenation, and have complaints of mild to moderate sagging.
The permanence of the thread face lift (thread lift) procedure varies depending on the type of threads used, the patient's skin structure, age, lifestyle, and the method applied. Thread materials used include Polydioxanone (PDO), Polylactic Acid (PLA), and Polycaprolactone (PCL) threads. Generally, the lifting effect obtained after the procedure continues for approximately 6 to 18 months. During this period, the improvement in appearance can be maintained thanks to both the mechanical support of the threads and the stimulated collagen production under the skin. In some patients, especially individuals with good skin quality and higher elasticity, the effects can be felt for a longer period due to collagen synthesis. However, the threads are biologically absorbed by the body over time and the effective mechanical support decreases. Therefore, thread face lift is not a permanent surgical method; it is a medical aesthetic application whose effect decreases over time and can be repeated when necessary.
Yes, a slight feeling of tension, fullness, or pulling may occur in the face during the first few days after the procedure. This situation is due to the threads repositioning the tissue under the skin and is generally temporary. It decreases in a short time and gives way to a more natural appearance.
Most people can return to their daily routine quickly after the procedure. However, for the first few days, excessive use of facial expressions, sleeping face down, and applying pressure to the facial area are not recommended. Although mild edema or bruising may occur, these usually decrease significantly within a short time and do not seriously restrict social life.
The question "Who is the Best Doctor Performing Thread Face Lift Treatment in Istanbul?" is a subject frequently researched by users. However, in the field of health, superlative expressions such as "the best" are not strictly used due to regulations. Therefore, it is necessary to approach the issue from a more accurate framework. Success in thread face lift treatment may vary according to the experience of the physician performing the application, the methods used, and the physical structure of the person. In our medical aesthetic clinic, evaluations are made in line with the needs and expectations of the clients, and it is aimed to create the most suitable treatment plan.
