TL;DR:
- Collagen threads: Synthetic, biocompatible fibers used to restore skin firmness by stimulating collagen production; form a scaffold under the skin and dissolve naturally.
- Procedure: Minimally invasive, requires local anesthesia; threads are inserted under the skin with sterile needles, contouring the skin to improve firmness. Takes 30-60 minutes.
- Results: Visible immediately, peak after ~2 months; improved skin elasticity, density, and wrinkle reduction. Effects last months to ~2 years.
- Uses: Treats sagging skin, wrinkles, double chin, drooping eyelids; also for neck, décolleté, and body contouring.
- Complications: Minor risks like redness, bruising, or temporary asymmetry. Rare cases include fibrosis or nerve damage if performed improperly.
- Contraindications: Pregnancy, infections, diabetes, cancer, clotting issues, or poor health.
- Popularity: Non-surgical, long-lasting, natural-looking skin rejuvenation.
Loss of skin firmness is a natural consequence of aging. As we age, tissues weaken, their tension decreases, and as a result, wrinkles, drooping eyelids, sagging cheeks and other imperfections can develop. Fortunately, modern aesthetic medicine offers many ways to solve this problem and improve the appearance of the skin. One of them is collagen threads. What is the procedure of their implantation, when is it recommended and what results does it bring? We suggest.
What are collagen threads?
Collagen is a structural component of our skin, responsible for its firmness, elasticity and youthful appearance. As we age, its production in the body decreases, leading to loss of tone and the formation of wrinkles. Lifting threads, are flexible fibers made from synthetic collagen. They show high biocompatibility and undergo natural decomposition in tissues, intensively stimulating repair processes. The process is slow and gradual. Initially, the threads form a kind of scaffolding under the skin, which supports the skin, and then they are absorbed, leaving it naturally firm and tight.
What does a collagen thread lift look like?
The collagen thread procedure is classified as a relatively safe and minimally invasive procedure. It requires no special preparation and proceeds in just a few steps. First there is a consultation with a doctor, during which the specialist assesses the condition of the patient’s skin, rules out contraindications to the procedure, and then discusses expectations and possible results. Once qualified for the procedure, local anesthesia is applied, so that the discomfort associated with the implantation is minimal. Threads are inserted under the skin using very thin and sterile needles. They can be placed in different layers of the skin, depending on the desired effect. After the threads are implanted, the doctor gently contours the skin, giving it the desired look and tightening sagging tissues. The whole procedure takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of implanted threads and the extent of the selected area.
What results can be achieved using collagen threads?
A major advantage of the collagen thread procedure is that the first results can be observed almost immediately after the procedure. However, you have to wait about 2 months for the final result. During this time, regenerative processes take place in the tissues and intensive production of collagen and elastin continues. Thanks to them, the skin after the procedure not only looks better, but also has a better quality. Its density and tension are improved. Sometimes patients have concerns that the procedure will change their facial features. There is no such risk, because the threads only affect soft tissues, without affecting cartilaginous or bony structures.
The effects of collagen threads are multidimensional. First of all, the treatment contributes to increased skin elasticity, resulting in visible smoothing of wrinkles. Stimulated synthesis of collagen and elastin improves the elasticity of tissues, and thus the firmness of the selected area. As a result, the complexion regains a youthful appearance and radiance. Collagen thread lift is most often performed in the facial area, but it can also be successfully applied to the neck, décolleté and other areas of the body, where we begin to observe signs of progressive aging.
How long do the results last?
The effects of collagen threads are judged by many to be comparable to a surgical lift, and they last for a very long time. The synthetic fibers are gradually broken down in the tissues, while stimulating the production of natural collagen and elastin. As a result, the skin slowly regains its proper firmness, density and tone. The results of the threads can last for several months or even up to two years. After this time, the implantation of the threads can be repeated. Importantly, the procedure is a one-time procedure. It is not necessary to perform a series of treatments. This is particularly appreciated by people who are not fond of contact with needles. The recovery period does not require any special measures, but it is worth avoiding excessive skin tightening in the first weeks. If the procedure was performed on the area around the lips, it is worth refraining from opening them wide so that the effects last longer.
Indications for the use of collagen threads.
Collagen lifting threads are used in various areas of aesthetic medicine, but they are most often recommended for implantation for those with visible signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles or pronounced loss of firmness. It’s also an excellent solution for patients who struggle with sagging skin after significant weight loss. By creating a kind of subcutaneous scaffolding from synthetic collagen and stimulating regenerative processes, it is possible to visibly improve facial contours and restore a youthful appearance. Thread lift is perfect for leveling the appearance of cellulite, reducing double chin and lifting drooping eyelids and cheeks. Threads can be used wherever tissue contour improvement is desired.
Possible complications of using lifting threads.
It is worth remembering that various aesthetic medicine procedures involve different levels of risk in terms of side effects or complications. Some procedures are risky, while others are almost completely safe. The use of lifting threads is not associated with significant danger. Redness, minor bruising and tenderness may occur after the procedure, but most often completely disappear over the next few days. In a few cases, there may be noticeable hardening and fibrosis of the skin, which is an excessive reaction of the tissues to the components contained in the threads. In such a situation, a second consultation with a specialist is recommended, who will recommend possible solutions. Another consequence of the procedure may be a temporary unevenness or asymmetry of the face. However, it is not a cause for serious concern, as it can be quickly corrected by adding another thread in the appropriate place. Although a thread lift is a simple procedure, it should always be performed by experienced professionals. Otherwise, subcutaneous migration of the implanted elements and even nerve damage can occur. Excellent knowledge of anatomy and proper training are required to properly perform the procedure.
Collagen threads – contraindications.
Despite the low risk and numerous benefits that collagen threads can bring, there are some circumstances in which their insertion is not recommended. Contraindications include:
- pregnancy and lactation,
- a tendency to scar formation,
- active bacterial, viral and fungal infections,
- damaged skin at the site of the procedure,
- inflammatory conditions and dermatological diseases,
- cancer and oncological treatment,
- unregulated diabetes,
- blood clotting disorders or use of anticoagulants,
- general deterioration of health.
It is worth remembering that both indications and contraindications for aesthetic medicine procedures are a very individual matter. For this reason, each procedure is preceded by a consultation with a specialist, who conducts a thorough history and examination of the patient. If circumstances are found that preclude the performance of a collagen thread lift, he may recommend alternative solutions.
Why have collagen threads become a hit in the beauty world?
The thread lift is growing in popularity, and it’s hardly surprising. It’s a procedure that doesn’t involve a lot of risk, instead offering excellent results that last for a long time. The effects, which can be observed after a period of convalescence, are spectacular, and at the same time very natural. Thanks to threading, you can enjoy firm, taut and youthful glowing skin without the need for invasive surgical procedures.
Conclusion
Collagen thread lifts offer a safe, effective way to restore skin firmness and youthfulness. This minimally invasive procedure stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture and elasticity over time. Results are natural, long-lasting, and achieved without major risks or downtime. While not suitable for everyone, a doctor can determine if it’s right for you. Thread lifts combine innovation and simplicity, making them a top choice in aesthetic treatments. If you’re looking to improve sagging skin or reduce wrinkles, this method is worth considering. Trust a skilled practitioner for the best outcome and lasting benefits.