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Both treatments place thin, dissolvable threads under the skin, but they aim at different goals. Smooth threads firm the skin gradually, while lifting threads raise sagging areas into a new position.
Sharp Smile Center offers both as part of its facial aesthetics services, provided by our Portage, MI, dentists. Each one suits a different concern, so it helps to know how they compare.
Here's how smooth threads and lifting threads differ.
PDO smooth threads are hair-thin sutures made of polydioxanone, a neutral material the body breaks down over time. They are placed under the skin to prompt new collagen.
As collagen builds, the skin looks firmer and more even. The change is gradual, so smooth threads are better for tone and texture than for a visible lift.
Lifting threads are temporary medical-grade sutures that hold skin in a firmer, higher position. The describes them as absorbable, barbed sutures that can treat early jowls, sagging brows and loose neck skin.
At our office, lifting threads are used to subtly raise skin around the nose, mouth, eyes and neck. Like smooth threads, they also trigger the body's natural collagen response.
With smooth threads, results build slowly as collagen forms. Patients usually see skin elasticity improve over a longer period rather than all at once.
Lifting threads show a change right away because the skin is repositioned during the visit. According to , thread lift results are temporary and last from one to three years.
Smooth threads may fit someone who wants firmer, smoother skin without a dramatic shift. They work well for people focused on fine texture changes and early loss of firmness.
Lifting threads may fit someone with mild sagging who wants to avoid surgery. Cleveland Clinic notes thread lifts are generally best for early signs of aging and for people who are not expecting dramatic results.
A thread lift usually takes about an hour and is done with local anesthesia, so you stay awake but comfortable. Swelling and bruising may last up to five days, and most people can return to work right away.
You may be asked to skip vigorous exercise for about two weeks so the threads stay in place. Gentle care of the treated skin for the first few days helps too.
Thread treatments can round out a smile makeover by refreshing the face around a new smile. If you are weighing cosmetic changes, these posts on what a smile makeover involves and smile makeover planning tips can help.
Some patients pair threads with injections or fillers. Our post on facial injections at the dentist covers that side of our cosmetic dentistry care.
Yes, lifting threads can be a non-surgical alternative to dermal fillers for some patients. Fillers add volume, while lifting threads reposition sagging skin and support collagen.
Sharp Smile Center offers both treatments, along with PRF bio fillers made from your own blood. During a consultation, our team can explain which approach fits the area you want to improve.
No, both smooth threads and lifting threads dissolve over time. Smooth threads are made of polydioxanone, a biodegradable material, and lifting threads are temporary sutures that dissolve fully.
The firmer look comes mainly from the collagen your body builds in response. That is why results can continue after the threads themselves are gone.
Soreness, swelling and bruising for several days are the most common side effects. Serious complications are uncommon.
Cleveland Clinic lists allergic reactions, bleeding, infection, and pulling or lumpiness under the skin as possible risks. Call the office if you notice fever, a lasting headache, or swelling that continues past 48 hours.
Yes, a thread lift can be repeated once the results begin to fade. Since the threads dissolve and the lift is temporary, many people plan a touch-up treatment down the road.
Cleveland Clinic notes that you can have the procedure again if you like the results. Our team can help you decide on timing during a follow-up visit.
The best way to choose is a consultation where your skin, goals and any sagging are evaluated in person. A short visit can show whether smooth threads, lifting threads or another option makes sense.
Sharp Smile Center has offices in Portage and Kalamazoo. Call Sharp Smile Center at (269) 344-4004 to set up a time.
Smooth threads and lifting threads both use dissolvable sutures, but one firms skin gradually while the other lifts it right away. Our Portage, MI, dentists can help you compare them.
Call Sharp Smile Center today at (269) 344-4004 or request an appointment online.