Thread Lifts: A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Surgical Facial Lifts in Sydney

Thread Face Lifts: The Minimally Invasive Alternative to Surgery
Are you noticing the subtle (or not-so-subtle) signs of aging? Sagging skin, jowls, deepening lines, and a loss of facial definition can all contribute to a tired or older appearance. A traditional surgical facelift remains an option for some but many individuals in Sydney seek less risky and invasive alternatives. Also known as threadlifts or face threading, a thread lift procedure can offer a compelling solution. This procedure provides a noticeable lift and rejuvenation without the extensive downtime, general anesthesia, and higher risks and costs associated with surgery.

What are Thread Lifts? Understanding the Basics
Only requiring small entry holes, thread face lifts manipulate threads of a medical grade to lift and tighten sagging skin. The threads are inserted beneath the skin's surface, providing an immediate lifting effect. The threads also stimulate the body's natural collagen production, improving skin firmness, texture, and elasticity, making a face threading facelift an effective solution.

The procedure is often called a "lunchtime lift" because it can typically be completed in under an hour. All most all patients can return to their usual activities the following day, a significant advantage over traditional surgical facelifts, which require a much longer recovery.

Types of Threads: Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs
The world of thread lifts can seem complex, with various thread types available. Understanding the effect of different threads is key to getting the ultimate outcome from the treatment. Beauty By Doctor Bondi offers a range of thread lift procedures, tailoring the treatment to each patient's unique needs. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:

PDO Threads (Polydioxanone)
PDO threads are naturally absorbed by the body over time due to their biodegradability. They are versatile and come in various forms to address different concerns:
PDO Mono Threads are primarily used for collagen stimulation, PDO Mono threads are smooth, single-filament threads . They improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and provide subtle tightening. Think of them as a skin-rejuvenating treatment rather than a dramatic lifting solution. 
Long PDO Threads are longer and often barbed or cogged threads, providing a more significant lifting effect. They are ideal for addressing moderate sagging in the cheeks, jowls, and neck. The barbs or cogs anchor the threads in position, allowing for a gentle but noticeable lift.
MINT Threads (Minimally Invasive Non-Surgical Thread) are a specific type of PDO thread with a unique, moulded barb design. This design provides a stronger anchoring effect, resulting in a more pronounced and immediate lift. They are particularly effective for defining the jawline and lifting heavier tissues.

Elasticum Threads: For Long-Lasting, Structural Support
Unlike PDO threads, Elasticum threads are not fully absorbed by the body, being comprised of a silicone core coated with polyester. Their primary advantage is the strength and elasticity they provide, resulting in a resilient lift. Elasticum threads are preferred by patients desiring more support and dramatic rejuvenation. They act as a scaffolding, providing a strong foundation for the lifted tissues.

Image: Before and after shots of a combo thread lift procedure - Elasticum hind face and neck sling, and PDOs to the mid-face.

Target Areas and Expected Outcomes: Where Can Thread Lifts Be Used?
Thread lifts are remarkably versatile and can address a wide range of concerns on the face and body. Here are some of the most common treatment areas - 

Face Thread Lift: This is the most popular application of thread lifts. It can address sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the mouth), marionette lines around the mouth and a loss of overall facial contour. PDO threads are commonly used for this purpose, providing a natural-looking lift and rejuvenation. Dr Jones is also an expert in using elasticum threads for face threading procedures

Jawline Thread Lift: For those seeking a more defined and sculpted jawline, barbed PDO or MINT threads are often the best choice. They can effectively lift sagging jowls and create a sharper, more youthful jawline contour. Again, Dr Phoeebe usually also uses elasticum threads for her jawline thread lifts.

Neck Thread Lift: Loose skin and horizontal necklines (sometimes called "tech neck") can be significantly improved with a neck thread lift. A combination of elsaticum threads, long PDO threads, short PDO mono threads could be used, lift and tighten the neck skin, creating a smoother and more youthful appearance.

Nose Thread Lift: For subtle enhancements to the nasal bridge and tip, a nose thread lift can offer a non-surgical alternative to rhinoplasty. Specialised threads are used to refine the shape of the nose without the need for surgery.

Eye and Eyebrow Lifts (Including Fox Eye Thread Lift): Threads can lift the outer brow area, creating a more open and almond-shaped eye, often referred to as a "fox eye thread lift." It's crucial to have a thorough consultation and view eye thread lift before and after images, and fox eyes thread lifts before and after photos, to ensure this procedure aligns with your desired aesthetic. In some cases, a surgical blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) might be a more appropriate option, particularly for individuals over 50 with more significant eyelid sagging.

Body Thread Lifts: Thread lifts can also be used to tighten skin on areas like the arms, abdomen, and thighs. The type of threads used and the expected results will vary depending on the specific location and the degree of laxity.

The Thread Lift Procedure: What to Expect
PDO thread lift procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort. A small amount of local anesthetic is injected into the treatment areas to numb the skin. Our clinic also offers happy gas (nitrous oxide) and other oral pain medications when appropriate to alleviate discomfort. For more complex thread lifting procedures, such as elasticum, twilight i.v. sedation is usually prescribed.

Once the area is numb, the doctor will use a fine cannula (a thin, blunt-tipped tube) or needle to insert the threads beneath the skin. The threads are purposefully placed to achieve the desired lift and shape. The treatment itself usually takes between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the number of threads used and the areas being treated.

Downtime and Recovery: The "Lunchtime Lift" Advantage
One of the major benefits of thread lifts is the fast healing. The majority of patients can recommence their usual activities shortly after the procedure. There can be some swelling and bruising in the treated area, however they usually subside within a few days. It's recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and moving your face too much for a short period to allow the threads to settle properly. Please see the thread lift aftercare section on the website here for more information.

Combining Thread Types for Optimal Results
The best results are often achieved by combining different types of threads. For example, a physician might use Elasticum threads to provide a strong structural foundation and then use PDO threads to address fine lines and stimulate collagen production. This customised approach allows for a truly tailored rejuvenation.

Thread Lifts vs. Traditional Facelift: Which is Right for You?
While a surgical facelift provides more dramatic and long-lasting results, it also involves a much longer recovery period, general anesthesia, and a higher risk of complications and a much higher cost.

Individuals with moderate skin laxity can achieve a subtle but noticeable improvement. They are an excellent option for those who want to avoid surgery or are not ready for a full facelift. For more severe sagging, a surgical facelift may be the better choice.

Image: Before and after threading -  Elasticum hind face & PDO mid face.

Longevity of Results: How Long Do Thread Lifts Last?
Different threads have different longevity -  

PDO Threads: Results typically last 1-2 years as the body gradually absorbs the threads. The collagen stimulation they provide extends to improve the skin even after the threads have dissolved.

Elasticum Threads: These threads are designed for long-term results, often lasting 5 years or more.

Cost of Thread Lifts in Sydney
The cost of thread lifts in Sydney varies depending on several factors, including the type and number of threads used, the areas being treated, and the practitioner's experience. It is best to book a consultation so the doctor can examine you, listen to your concerns, and develop a treatment plan. Only then can a reliable cost be provided. As a guide at our clinic, pricing ranges from $3300 to $5500 for elasticum threads; for a Long PDO thread lift, the price range on average is from $1650 to $3850. 

Expert Insight: Dr Phoebe Jones – A Leader in the Thread Lift Procedure
Dr Phoebe Jones, based in Bondi Junction Sydney, is known as one of Australia's leading facial threads facelift physicians. Having trained in Genoa (Italy), San Diego, California, (USA), and Seoul (Korea) Dr Phoebe Jones is among the few practitioners in Australia offering Elasticum thread lifts. Dr Jones is dedicated to being at the forefront of the latest and most advanced techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thread Lifts

Are thread lifts painful? Local anesthesia, happy gas and twilight sedation are methods used to minimise discomfort.

What are the potential side effects? Often there is swelling, bruising, and mild tenderness. These are usually temporary and resolve within a few days.

Can threads be removed? While PDO threads dissolve naturally, Elasticum threads can be removed if necessary.

Am I a good candidate for a thread lift? If you are interested in a thread lift, it is best to seek a qualified practitioner for a consultation and discuss the results you wish for.

What is facial threading? Another term for a thread lift.

What is thread pdo? Refers to a thread-lift using PDO threads.

Rejuvenate Your Appearance with Thread Lifts at Beauty By Doctor
Thread lifts have proven to be safe, effective, and minimally invasive. Ultimately, a thread lift will leave your face looking revitalised and more youthful. With knowledge of the different types of threads, the target areas, and the expected outcomes, you can make an informed decision regarding a thread lift.

At Beauty By Doctor, we are committed to providing personalised care and achieving natural-looking results. Contact us today to schedule an obligation free consultation with Dr Phoebe and learn how thread lifts could help you achieve your aesthetic goals. You can book online via the "Book Now" link below, or please call the clinic on 02 9388 9191.

Our patients frequently travel from interstate to see Dr Phoebe in Bondi, Sydney. We help to facilitate our national patients by offering a telehealth consultation for your initial appointment if you reside outside of Sydney. If flying in from interstate for a threading procedure, staying in Sydney for the night is advisable. If you need an accommodation recommendation, please phone the clinic on 02 9388 9191 or email info@beautybydoctor.com.