What it means for a patient
- Thread lifts are a minimally invasive technique and had mostly minor, short-lived side effects in the studies found.
- How much lift threads give, and how long it lasts, was not established in the available studies.
- If you are considering a thread lift instead of a facelift, ask for long-term results with objective measurements.
- The review found only 6 studies, none with systematic long-term follow-up.
Why this paper matters
It gathered the early evidence on barbed thread suspension and showed that its effect and longevity were not established. The authors see potential for the technique as further development occurs.
Overview
Barbed suture suspension, or thread lifting, was widely covered in the popular press, but little had been published on its safety, effect, longevity or complications. The authors searched MEDLINE using terms including "barbed and suture," "thread and suspension," Aptos, Featherlift and Contour Thread. They reviewed studies on midface lifting with barbed threads.
Findings
- 6 studies met the criteria of addressing midface lift with barbed thread suspension.
- Some adverse events were found, mostly minor, self-limited and short.
- Data on the size of the peak correction were unclear.
- Data on how long the effect lasts were unclear.
- Objective outcome measures and long-term follow-up were not reported systematically in the available studies.
- The authors describe the technique as in its infancy.
Terms
- Barbed suture: a stitch with small barbs along it that grip tissue without knots.
- Thread lift (barbed suture suspension): lifting facial tissue with barbed threads placed under the skin through needles.
- Midface: the area between the lower eyelids and the upper lip, including the cheeks.
- Adverse event: an unwanted effect of treatment.
- Self-limited: resolving on its own without treatment.
- Longevity: how long a result lasts.
- Aptos, Featherlift, Contour Thread: brand names of barbed thread products.