What Is a Barbed Thread Lift? How Long Does It Last?

By Dr. Stephen Cosentino

PRESIDENT OF EMPIRE MEDICAL TRAINING

Understanding Barbed Thread Lifts

A barbed thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to address signs of aging in the face, particularly around the eyes. This innovative technique offers a compelling alternative to more invasive surgical options, providing longer-lasting results compared to common non-surgical treatments like dermal fillers and botulinum toxin injections.

What Are Barbed Thread Lifts?

Also known as a barbed suture lift, this procedure uses temporary medical threads to lift and tighten the skin of the cheeks, jowls, eyebrows, or forehead. These threads feature tiny, painless barbs that serve two functions:

• Holding the threads securely in place
• Stimulating collagen production over time

The collagen-stimulating effect is similar to that of dermal fillers injections, contributing to the procedure's long-lasting results.

Barbed Thread Lifts vs. PDO Thread Lifts

While both are thread lift procedures, barbed thread lifts differ from PDO thread lifts primarily in thread shape:

• Barbed threads: Feature small barbs along the thread
• PDO threads: Have a curved or smooth shape

This difference in shape impacts their primary benefits:

• Barbed threads: Excel at lifting and tightening skin
• PDO threads: Better at stimulating collagen production, adding volume, and facilitating skin contouring

Benefits of Barbed Thread Lifts

Barbed thread lifts offer several advantages over other cosmetic procedures:

1. Longer-Lasting Results

According to recent research, barbed thread lifts provide more durable results compared to common injectable facial rejuvenation procedures:

• Injectable procedures (e.g., Botox, dermal fillers): Effects typically last 3 to 12 months
• Barbed thread lifts: Effects can persist for 1 to 3 years

2. Dual Rejuvenation Mechanism

The longevity of barbed thread lifts is attributed to their two-pronged approach:

1. Initial insertion and lifting: Immediately tightens and reinforces the skin, reducing visible signs of aging
2. Collagen stimulation: Over time, threads prompt the body to produce collagen, increasing skin volume and enhancing youthful appearance

3. Minimally Invasive with Quick Recovery

Compared to traditional facelift surgery, barbed thread lifts offer:

• Shorter procedure time (typically under an hour)
• Faster recovery (many patients return to work the same day)
• Lower risk of complications

4. Versatility in Addressing Cosmetic Concerns

Providers may recommend barbed thread lifts to address various aesthetic issues, including:

• Sagging cheeks or jowls
• Drooping eyebrows
• Forehead wrinkles
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• marionette lines around the mouth

The Barbed Thread Lift Procedure

A typical barbed thread lift procedure involves the following steps:

1. Local anesthesia application to ensure patient comfort
2. Careful marking of the treatment area
3. Insertion of a thin, hollow needle containing the barbed thread
4. Thread placement along predetermined paths
5. Gentle manipulation of the thread to lift and tighten the skin
6. Trimming of excess thread

Recovery and Side Effects

Recovery Process

The recovery period for barbed thread lifts is significantly shorter than that of facelift surgery:

• Many patients return to work on the day of the procedure
• Some prefer taking 1-2 days off to allow minor bruising and swelling to subside

Common Side Effects

Side effects of barbed thread lifts are typically mild and temporary, including:

• Pinching or tightening sensation during and after the procedure
• Temporary swelling or bruising around the treatment site

Less Common Side Effects

While rare, patients should be aware of potential complications:

• Mild asymmetry
• Visible threads (especially in patients with thin skin)
• Thread migration
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin

Serious Complications

Although extremely rare, providers should educate patients about signs of:

• Allergic reactions
• Infections

Comparing Barbed Thread Lifts to Other Procedures

Barbed Thread Lifts vs. Dermal Fillers

While both procedures aim to rejuvenate the face, they differ in approach and longevity:

• Dermal fillers: Add volume to specific areas, typically lasting 6-18 months
• Barbed thread lifts: Lift and tighten skin while stimulating collagen, with effects lasting 1-3 years

Barbed Thread Lifts vs. Facelift Surgery

Barbed thread lifts offer a middle ground between non-invasive treatments and traditional facelift surgery:

• Less invasive than facelift surgery
• Shorter recovery time
• Lower risk of complications
• More subtle, natural-looking results
• Shorter-lasting effects compared to facelift surgery

Ideal Candidates for Barbed Thread Lifts

Barbed thread lifts are particularly suitable for:

• Individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity
• Those seeking a non-surgical alternative to facelift surgery
• Patients unable to undergo lengthy recovery periods
• People looking for a more long-lasting solution than injectable treatments

Summing Up

Barbed thread lifts offer a compelling option for individuals seeking facial volume rejuvenation without the downtime and risks associated with invasive surgery. By combining immediate lifting effects with long-term collagen stimulation, this procedure provides a unique approach to addressing signs of aging. As with any cosmetic procedure, potential patients should consult with qualified healthcare providers to determine if barbed thread lifts are appropriate for their specific needs and goals.