Threads

Thread lift procedures involve the placement of absorbable or non-permanent suspension threads beneath the skin to provide structural support and tissue repositioning. Treatments may include PDO threads and Elasticum threads. As with any procedure involving the skin and underlying tissues, there are potential risks and complications. These are uncommon and are outlined not to cause concern, but as part of our responsibility to provide clear and comprehensive information to support informed decision-making.

Understanding these risks allows for appropriate treatment planning and aftercare.

Understanding the Risks
Thread lift procedures are performed in a controlled clinical setting; however, individual responses may vary depending on skin characteristics, thread type, treatment area, and healing response. Awareness of potential complications supports informed consent and appropriate management if required.

Swelling and Bruising
What It Is: Localised swelling and bruising caused by needle or cannula entry and tissue manipulation during thread placement.
How Common: Common following treatment.
How Long It Lasts: Typically most noticeable in the first several days and gradually improves over one to two weeks.
Management: Usually self-limiting; aftercare guidance may be provided.

Tenderness or Discomfort
What It Is: Mild soreness, tightness, or tenderness in the treated area.
How Common: Common.
How Long It Lasts: Often improves over several days to weeks.
Management: Managed with appropriate post-treatment care.

Skin Irregularity or Dimpling
What It Is: Temporary puckering, dimpling, or unevenness of the skin related to thread positioning or tissue tension.
How Common: Uncommon.
How Long It Lasts: Often improves as swelling settles and tissues adapt.
Management: Reviewed clinically and managed where appropriate.

Asymmetry
What It Is: Variation in contour or positioning between sides following treatment.
How Common: Uncommon.
How Long It Lasts: May improve during the healing process or require further assessment.
Management: Reviewed and managed based on clinical presentation.

Thread Visibility or Palpability
What It Is: Threads may occasionally be visible under the skin or felt on palpation, particularly in thinner skin areas.
How Common: Uncommon.
How Long It Lasts: May improve as swelling settles and tissues heal.
Management: Assessed clinically if persistent.

Infection
What It Is: Bacterial infection at thread entry points or along the treatment pathway.
How Common: Rare.
How Long It Lasts: Varies depending on severity.
Management: Preventative antibiotics may be prescribed where appropriate. If infection occurs, medical treatment and follow-up are required.

Thread Migration or Extrusion
What It Is: Movement of the thread from its original position or protrusion through the skin surface.
How Common: Rare.
How Long It Lasts: Requires clinical assessment.
Management: May require adjustment or removal of the affected thread.

Nerve Irritation
What It Is: Temporary irritation of nearby sensory nerves resulting in altered sensation or tenderness.
How Common: Rare.
How Long It Lasts: Often temporary and improves over time.
Management: Monitored and managed as appropriate.

Scarring
What It Is: Small scars may develop at thread entry points or in areas of altered healing response.
How Common: Rare.
How Long It Lasts: Varies depending on individual healing characteristics.
Management: Scar care guidance may be provided where appropriate.

Minimising Your Risk
Risk may be reduced through appropriate clinical assessment, careful treatment planning, and adherence to pre- and post-treatment instructions. Providing a complete medical history allows for a tailored approach to care.

If You Experience Concerns Following Treatment
If you experience unexpected symptoms following a PDO or Elasticum thread lift procedure, it is important to contact your treating clinic promptly. Please call (02) 9388 9191, or if outside of business hours, 0492 175 092.

At Beauty by Doctor, care pathways are in place to assess and manage complications where required.

Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a qualified medical professional.