2026-09-03
Side Effects After Facial Thread Lift
While facial thread lifts are minimally invasive, they are not without potential side effects, including unsatisfactory results, uneven skin texture, dimpling, and, rarely, infection.
Because facial thread lifts involve no incisions, there are no surgical scars on the face. Compared to a full facelift with long incisions, it is considered a very simple procedure. The procedure time is very short, swelling and bruising are minimal, and the recovery period is almost nonexistent. Due to its simplicity, many people are opting for thread lift procedures.
However, just because it's a simple procedure doesn't mean there are no side effects. I occasionally treat patients who complain of thread lift side effects, and I often see cases where previous side effects make them hesitant to undergo the procedure again.
The causes of dissatisfaction or side effects after a thread lift are varied.
Firstly, some patients complain of little to no effect after the procedure. In fact, a lack of effect is closer to dissatisfaction than a side effect. Since there are significant differences in experience and skill among clinics and their directors, it's impossible to pinpoint a single cause for dissatisfaction. Surgical methods also vary greatly. While most achieve good results with thread lifts, I feel regret when I encounter those who experienced no effect.
A significant side effect is when the face becomes uneven or dimpled after the procedure. Since the treated area is conspicuously visible, although it often improves significantly over time, patients can experience considerable emotional distress during that period.
When threads are inserted into the face, it is best for them to be placed at an appropriate and consistent depth. If they are inserted too superficially into the skin, the threads may be visible through the skin, or they might even protrude. Also, when the threads are pulled, the skin on the face might appear uneven or pinched. Conversely, if the threads are inserted too deeply, such side effects might be reduced, but the lifting effect would be significantly diminished. Therefore, inserting threads uniformly at an appropriate depth is extremely important.
However, our face is not a flat surface. The cheekbones protrude unevenly, and skin thickness varies by area. This makes it very difficult to insert threads uniformly. Especially if the cheekbones are prominent or the skin is thin, these side effects are more likely to occur. This situation particularly demands the experience of the practitioner.
In addition, there can be general surgical side effects such as infection or inflammation. However, the two most common problematic side effects in thread lifts are the ones mentioned above.
Is it true that because a thread lift is a very simple procedure, there are no side effects? This is incorrect. While it is a simple procedure, like any other surgery, problems can arise, and achieving results that satisfy the patient is no easy task. As mentioned, the results of this procedure clearly differ depending on the surgeon's experience and skill. This is why careful consideration is needed when deciding on the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there no incision scars with a thread lift?
Yes, a thread lift involves no incisions, so no surgical scars are left on the facial skin. Compared to a facelift, the procedure time is shorter, there is less swelling and bruising, and almost no recovery period is needed, making it a preferred choice for many.
Is it possible to have no effect after a thread lift?
Yes, there are cases where patients complain of little to no effect after a thread lift. This is closer to dissatisfaction than a side effect, and results can vary depending on the clinic, the practitioner's experience and skill, and the specific procedure method.
Why does the face become uneven after a thread lift?
An uneven or dimpled face after a thread lift is one of the significant side effects. This can occur if the threads are inserted too superficially into the skin or if the skin is pinched when pulled. It is also challenging to insert threads uniformly due to the complex structure of the face.
Why is the depth of the thread important during a thread lift?
The depth of the thread during a thread lift is very important. If the threads are inserted too superficially, they may be visible through or protrude from the skin. If inserted too deeply, the lifting effect will be reduced. Inserting threads uniformly at an appropriate depth is essential to minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness.
Is the practitioner's experience important for a thread lift?
Yes, a thread lift is a procedure where the results clearly differ depending on the surgeon's experience and skill. Especially due to the complex structure of the face and variations in skin thickness, uniform thread insertion is difficult, and the practitioner's proficiency significantly impacts the occurrence of side effects and patient satisfaction.