Due to genetic factors and environmental influences, the skin may experience loosening, sagging, and the formation of deep wrinkles over time. The purpose of the French thread lift procedure, often preferred as an alternative to surgical facelift operations, is to create a lifting effect on the face, mitigating the negative effects of aging and promoting a more youthful appearance. One of the significant advantages of this method is that, since it doesn’t affect the muscles, the results often appear natural.

What is a French Thread Lift?

The French thread lift is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedure that involves the use of flexible threads made of polyester on the inside and silicone on the outside, designed to tighten the skin and lift the underlying tissue beneath the skin surface. Also known as French thread lift, this facial rejuvenation procedure is called so because it was developed in France. Intervention may be necessary to restore the appearance of skin that has lost collagen balance and elasticity. When left untreated, the skin can undergo deformation and sagging more rapidly than desired. The French thread lift procedure, which performs functions such as lifting, pulling, and smoothing, prevents sagging in the skin. It contributes to maintaining the oval shape of the face and helps gather sagging areas, providing a largely preserved oval shape for a more youthful and vibrant appearance.

The threads used in the procedure almost painlessly eliminate sagging wrinkles in the facial area. In some applications, biocompatible PDO threads, more commonly used in cardiovascular surgery, are also preferred. Since the materials used in this method are highly compatible with the human body, they can also be used in cases of partial facial paralysis.

For Which Areas is the French Thread Lift Suitable?

The French thread lift is a method that can be used for restructuring facial features, shaping the face into an oval form, lifting drooping eyebrows, and alleviating lip lines. Additionally, it has a long-lasting effect on the nose, jawline, neck area, and overall facial tightening. It is employed to address visible lines around the eyes, nasolabial folds, and cheeks. The application areas on the face include:

Under the chin

• Neck
• Cheeks
• Eyebrows
• Cheekbones

The French thread lift can also be applied to the following areas on the body:

• Chest
• Arms
• Legs
• Hips

The areas of the face where sagging is most prominent include the cheeks. Therefore, the procedure is often performed to address sagging in the cheeks. However, for achieving a symmetrical facial structure, the areas under the chin and cheekbones are typically addressed alongside the cheeks.

Who Can Get a French Thread Lift?

Those who wish to undergo a French thread lift should meet the following criteria:

• Individuals who prefer non-surgical options or cannot undergo surgery.
• Those experiencing partial facial paralysis on one side of the face.
• Men and women between the ages of 30 and 60 with deep wrinkles and sagging.
• Individuals with low eyebrows.

How is a French Thread Lift Applied?

The French thread lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour. This less invasive procedure involves minimal incisions compared to surgical facelifts. The details of the application and the targeted area are decided collaboratively between the doctor and the patient. Once the patient is fully informed about all the details, the planning is completed. Before the procedure, patients are usually advised to refrain from blood-thinning medications for a certain period.

On the day of the procedure, the skin should be clean, rested, and ready. During the process, threads are inserted under the skin. The preferred location for securing the threads is typically above the ear, behind the hairline. Depending on the patient’s needs, 2 or 3 pairs of thread lifts are placed on both sides of the face, under the skin. Since the hair-bearing skin behind the ear covers the traces of the application, the procedure is completed without the need for stitches. Once the threads are tightened, a symmetric lifting effect is achieved on the patient’s face. In the first six months, the threads help enhance natural collagen synthesis, leading to skin tightening.

After the procedure, mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort may occur in the application area. This can be alleviated with the use of ice packs and pain relievers. The healing process continues with prescribed pain relievers and other medications. Patients can usually resume their daily activities after the application. The normal recovery period varies between 2 to 15 days, depending on the individual’s overall health.

While the number of sessions required may vary based on the patient’s general health, typically, a single session is sufficient for the French thread lift. The procedure can be repeated approximately five years later.

What Are the Distinctive Features of the French Thread Lift?

The benefits provided by this procedure are as follows:

• French thread lift is a non-surgical and sutureless aesthetic method that leaves no scars on the skin.
• Since it is not performed under general anesthesia, there is no need for patients to be hospitalized.
• The treatment is nearly painless as it is conducted under local anesthesia.
• Patients can return to their work and social life after the procedure.
• Its flexible structure ensures that there are no unnatural distortions in facial expressions.
• The natural appearance is preserved for approximately 5 years without deterioration.
• The threads used in the procedure are permanent, allowing for the possibility of tightening the skin by pulling the threads even years after the application.
• This lifting method can be preferred not only for addressing wrinkles and sagging on the face but also for treating patients with facial paralysis.