Treatment guides

Dermal Threads: how it works, suitability and aftercare

Dermal threads can provide selected tissue support and contour change without a surgical lift. Explore how thread treatment is planned, what it can achieve and how recovery is managed.

SkinGenious editorial team

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Understanding the treatment

Here, 2-4 dermal threads (made of inert material) are introduced under the skin. The threads have a hook on the end and attach to the sub-dermal area targeted by your dermatologist.Dermal threads pull up the skin as you would expect and the reaction of the tissue surrounding the thread helps tighten it further. Do not worry, it is not as painful it may sound in the hands of a trained aesthetic dermatologist like the ones empaneled with us.

Made of inert material, the threads are inserted into the layers under the skin with the help of a needle. As you should be able to see in the associated video, these threads are placed by an expert dermatologist in the right layers of the skin. At the end of the threads are hooks that attach to the structurs under the skin. The result is that the threads pull the skin up, tightening it in the process.

Thread lifting places medical threads under the skin to provide selected tissue support or contour change. It is a minimally invasive procedure with limitations and should not be equated with a surgical lift.

How it works

With dermal threads, you can start seeing results immediately after the procedure. The tightening improves over the next week as the surrounding tissue further constricts against the threads. The results last for 18-24 months.

Depending on their design, threads can provide mechanical support and a local tissue response. Material, placement and facial anatomy influence the outcome.

Suitability and assessment

The clinician evaluates skin laxity, facial volume, medical history and previous procedures. Marked excess skin or unrealistic expectations may make another approach more appropriate.

What happens during treatment

After planning, cleansing and local anaesthesia where needed, threads are introduced along selected paths. Position and skin appearance are checked before aftercare is explained.

Step 1

In-person Consultation

Consulting the dermatologist is the first step of any treatment at SkinGenious. You will meet the dermatologist, share your concerns and history regarding pigmentation. The dermatologist will then plan the ideal plan of treatment, which for skin tightening, may be dermal threads.

Step 2

Pre-treatment preparation

Preparation for the treatment involves cleaning up the face or any other target area. After this, numbing cream will be applied to keep discomfort during the treatment to a minimum.

Step 3

Treatment with Dermal threads

The treatment starts with your dermatologist marking out the lines and entry points for the threads followed by the insertion of the threads.

Results and limitations

Early swelling can distort the result. Any lifting effect is limited and temporary, and additional procedures may still be needed to address other concerns.

Dermal Threads for Sagging Skin

Dermal threads are very effective in getting immediate results of skin tightening with results that last for 18-24 months.

Before and after results

These photographs come from the existing treatment and concern records. They illustrate individual outcomes. Your starting point, treatment plan and healing response affect your own result.

Before and after: Dermal Threads for Sagging Skin — Dermal Threads for Sagging Skin

Risks and recovery

Bruising, dimpling, asymmetry, infection, visible or exposed threads and nerve or vessel injury are possible. Some complications may require removal or another procedure.

There is a mild risk of infection at the entry point in case the procedure is not performed in a sterile environment. You need not worry about this at our partner clinics.Â

Preparing for treatment

Bring details of previous procedures, medicines, allergies and any change in your health. Ask which skincare products or activities need adjusting before the appointment. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice.

Any change to prescribed medicines, including blood thinners, must be agreed with the prescribing clinician.

If you do not smoke, it means your body has much better chances of bruising lesser.
Avoiding blood thinners like aspirin will help further reduce the minimal chances of bruising or redness.

Aftercare

Care required to keep the entry site of threads clean. No rubbing etc.

Follow instructions on facial pressure, vigorous movement, dental procedures and review. Do not pull, cut or manipulate a thread if it becomes visible.

Alternatives to consider

Skin-tightening devices and surgical lifting differ in effect and recovery. A consultation should compare these options rather than assuming threads suit every face.

Planning treatment and maintenance

Thread treatments are used to support selected tissues and improve the appearance of mild sagging. The suitability of the treatment depends on skin quality, facial volume and where support is needed. Threads cannot be planned well from the outline of the face alone. During consultation, discuss whether you want a subtle improvement in contour or a larger change in loose skin. The type of thread, its placement and the expected duration should be explained in relation to that goal. A thread procedure and a surgical facelift differ in the degree of correction they can provide. Previous fillers, energy treatments and surgery are relevant to planning. Tell the clinician about them, including any previous thread placement. Ask about visible or palpable threads, dimpling, asymmetry and the steps the clinic takes if a thread needs review or removal. Early swelling and tenderness can affect the way the result looks. Follow the instructions about pressure on the area, facial movement and return to exercise. Compare the outcome after the initial settling period. A longer-term plan may also include skin care or treatment for volume loss, but each addition should have a clear purpose rather than being included simply because it is available.

What affects the cost

The area treated, the product or device, the treatment plan and the number of sessions influence the total. A useful estimate explains what is included, what follow-up involves and whether maintenance is likely. City pages provide the local service information.

Common questions

Are dermal threads invasive?

Yes, dermal threads are inserted under the skin and are hence minimally invasive.

Are dermal threads painful?

Yes, dermal threads can be a little painful. The treatment is preceded by topical anaesthesia to minimize the discomfort involved.

What should I understand before choosing dermal threads?

The clinician evaluates skin laxity, facial volume, medical history and previous procedures. Marked excess skin or unrealistic expectations may make another approach more appropriate.

What results should I expect?

Early swelling can distort the result. Any lifting effect is limited and temporary, and additional procedures may still be needed to address other concerns.

How do I compare this with other options?

Skin-tightening devices and surgical lifting differ in effect and recovery. A consultation should compare these options rather than assuming threads suit every face.

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Dermal Threads: how it works, suitability and aftercare

Understanding the treatment

How it works

Suitability and assessment