Face threading has taken the beauty world by storm, offering a faster and affordable, non-surgical way to lift and tighten sagging skin. The allure of instant results without the downtime of a traditional facelift is hard to resist.
Imagine walking out of a clinic with a rejuvenated, youthful glow—sounds superb, right? But before you rush to book a date with the physician, it’s vital to understand that this seemingly simple procedure isn’t all smooth sailing. Hidden beneath the surface are risks that could turn your beauty dream into a havoc.
In this guide, we’re pulling back the curtain on face threading to reveal the 15 serious side effects you need to be aware of. Whether you’re already a fan of this trendy treatment or just curious about it, you’ll want to read on to make sure your path to youthful skin doesn’t come with unexpected bumps.
What is Face Threading?
A non-surgical cosmetic treatment used to tighten and lift drooping facial skin. In order to create a lifting effect, a cosmetic surgeon implants temporary sutures, also known as threads, under the skin during the surgery.
Materials such as polydioxanone (PDO), polylactic acid (PLA), or polycaprolactone (PCL) are used to make these threads. Although these substances eventually dissolve, they encourage the skin's synthesis of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin, which produces longer-lasting effects.
The main appeal of face threading lies in its minimally invasive nature and the ability to deliver immediate, visible results with little to no downtime.
Unlike a traditional facelift with an extensive time consuming surgery, and potentially dramatic changes to one’s appearance, face threading can often be done in just one session. Patients return to normal activities within a day or two.
However, this doesn't mean that it’s without risks.
The 15 Serious Face Threading Side Effects
With the promise of near-instant results and minimal downtime, it’s no wonder so many are eager to give face threading a try. But before you jump on the bandwagon, it’s important to know that this fashionable treatment isn’t without its risks. In fact, some of the potential side effects could leave you wishing you had thought twice.
In this guide, we’ll explore 15 serious face threading side effects that you need to know about. From infections to nerve damage, understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision about whether face threading is really the right choice for you.
Let’s go in headfirst:
1. Infection
One of the most dangerous adverse effects of facial threading that you should be aware of is infection. There's always a chance that bacteria will get into a pierced region of skin and cause an infection. If the threads are not kept in a sterile environment or if the recommended aftercare is not given, this risk rises.
Redness, swelling, heat, pain, and perhaps pus at the insertion sites are signs of an infection. If the infection is severe, it may spread and cause more serious problems. It is important to select a qualified provider who adheres to proper cleanliness practices in order to reduce the danger of infection.
2. Bruising and Swelling
Common side face threading side effects include bruising and edema, especially in the vicinity of the thread insertion sites. This is a normal reaction to the damage that the threads and needles have produced. The majority of bruises and swelling go down in a week, but sometimes they get worse and stay longer.
These symptoms can be lessened by using cold compresses, avoiding physically demanding activities, and adhering to your provider's aftercare instructions.
3. Nerve Damage
One rare but potentially dangerous adverse effect of facial threading is nerve injury. The control of facial feeling and muscular action is attributed to the facial nerves. Nerve damage may occur from a thread that is positioned too near to a nerve or from excessive pressure used during the surgery.
In the affected area, this may result in tingling, numbness, or even loss of muscle function. Although most nerve damage is only transitory, there is a chance that it could become permanent, which could have long-term implications for feeling and facial expressions.
4. Thread Migration
When the threads utilized in the operation relocate from where they were initially located, it's known as thread migration. This may occur if the threads are not securely fastened or if they are excessively moved or compressed—for example, by rubbing or changing facial expressions.
When threads migrate, they might appear unbalanced or uneven, and in certain situations, they can show through the skin. The total cost and recovery time may increase if thread migration happens because more steps might need to be taken to transfer or eliminate the threads.
5. Scarring
Another possible face threading side effect is scarring. Even with the tiny incisions made during the treatment, scarring is still possible, especially for people who are prone to hypertrophic or keloid scars. Compared to other scars, these elevated scars may be easier to see.
It's crucial to let your provider know if you have a history of scarring before having facial threading. To reduce the chance of scarring, they might modify the procedure or offer extra treatments.
6. Asymmetry
Like in other cosmetic procedures, facial threading also registers difficulties in achieving facial symmetry. If one side of the face reacts differently to the therapy or if the threads are not placed uniformly, asymmetry may result.
This may lead to a pronounced difference in the appearance of one side of the face from the other, which may need further treatments to fix. While most providers will work to achieve the best possible results, asymmetry is always a possibility. Perfect symmetry is hard to achieve.
7. Pain and Discomfort
Pain and discomfort are anticipated, especially during the days right after the surgery as a result of tightness in the treated areas. This pain normally goes away after a few days.
However, some people may continue to hurt, particularly if the treatment involves extensive tissue manipulation or if the threads were inserted too deeply. You can manage this discomfort by taking over-the-counter pain medications and adhering to your provider's aftercare instructions.
8. Allergic Reactions
Face threading may, however infrequently, produce allergic reactions. Generally, threads used in the process are composed of substances like polydioxanone (PDO), polylactic acid (PLA), or polycaprolactone (PCL) that are regarded as safe for the majority of individuals.
Allergy reactions are still possible, though, especially if you have a history of allergies to medical-grade materials. An allergic reaction may manifest as redness, swelling, itching, or, in extreme situations, anaphylaxis. It's crucial to let your provider know if you have a history of allergies before having facial threading.
9. Granuloma Formation
Little nodules called granulomas can develop around foreign items in the body, such as the threads used during face threading. The body attempts to defend and isolate itself from the foreign substance in this way.
Granulomas can generate visible or palpable lumps or bumps under the skin, despite the fact that they are usually harmless. To eliminate or lessen them, they may occasionally need more medical attention. It's crucial to get in touch with your provider for an assessment and potential therapy if you discover any odd lumps or bumps following your surgery.
10. Thread Extrusion
This may occur if the skin in the treated area is extremely thin or if the threads are not adequately attached. Infection and other problems might arise from thread extrusion, and its correction typically calls for additional steps.
Due to its potential for both bodily and aesthetic discomfort, this is one of the disconcerting adverse face threading side effects. It's critical that you get in touch with your provider right away if you observe any thread extrusion symptoms.
11. Skin Irregularities
Face threading can sometimes result in skin irregularities, such as dimpling, puckering, or uneven texture. These irregularities can occur if the threads are not placed correctly or if the skin reacts unexpectedly to the procedure.
While some of these issues may resolve on their own over time, others may require additional treatments to correct. Skin irregularities can be particularly frustrating, as they can affect the overall appearance of the face and may require further intervention to achieve the desired results.
12. Temporary or Permanent Skin Discoloration
Another possible side effect of facial threading is skin discolouration. Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) may result from the damage to the skin induced by the thread insertion.
Although this discoloration is usually transient and will go away with time, it has the potential to become permanent, particularly in people with darker skin tones. It is imperative that you discuss any concerns you may have regarding the possibility of skin discoloration with your practitioner prior to undertaking the surgery.
13. Unnatural Appearance
A natural, youthful appearance is one of the objectives of face threading. However, the outcome may appear artificial or overdone if the threads are arranged wrong or if there are too many threads utilized.
This could result in a "tight" or "pulled" look that stands out from the rest of the face and makes it clear that a cosmetic surgery has been done. It is crucial to select a proficient practitioner with face threading knowledge who knows how to get results that look natural in order to prevent this.
14. Prolonged Recovery Time
While face threading is advertised as a less invasive technique, some people may require more time to recuperate than anticipated. Unexpectedly long-lasting swelling, bruises, and discomfort might make it challenging to resume regular activities.
This might be upsetting especially for people who were hoping for a simple and speedy recovery. For an assessment and potential therapy, it's critical to get in touch with your provider if you have persistent recovery symptoms.
15. Dissatisfaction with Results
Ultimately, the possibility of not being happy with the outcome is among the most important face threading adverse effects. Even with your provider's best efforts, there's always a chance the result won't live up to your expectations.
A lack of confidence and the requirement for additional treatments to address the problem can result from dissatisfaction with the lift, whether it's because of asymmetry, scarring, or just not getting the desired level of lift.
To reduce the possibility of discontent, it's critical to establish reasonable expectations and to make your goals known to your provider in a clear and concise manner.
How to Minimize Face Threading Side Effects
In a nutshell, while the potential side effects may sound daunting, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and ensure the best possible outcome.
Here are some key tips:
Choose a Qualified and Experienced Provider
The key to reducing the negative consequences of face threading is selecting a skilled and knowledgeable provider. Seek out a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon with board certification who has performed numerous thread lifting treatments.
Verify that they have a history of positive results by reading reviews and requesting to see before-and-after pictures of their prior patients. A knowledgeable supplier will be able to evaluate your particular requirements and suggest the best course of action to meet your goals while lowering risks.
Discuss Your Medical History
It is crucial that you and your provider go over your whole medical history prior to having facial threading. This includes any medications you are currently taking, any allergies or sensitivities you may have, and any prior cosmetic treatments.
By being honest with your physician about your medical history, you can help them take the appropriate steps to reduce the likelihood of complications. Please feel free to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have during your session.
Follow Pre- and Post-Procedure Instructions
You'll probably receive detailed instructions from your provider to follow both before and after the face threading treatment. These might include abstaining from smoking, limiting sun exposure, and avoiding certain medications, such as blood thinners.
Paying close attention to these guidelines can lower your chance of experiencing adverse effects from face threading and speed up the healing process. Maintaining your follow-up meetings is also essential, as it allows your provider to track your progress and treat any issues that may come up.
Manage Your Expectations
It's critical to have reasonable expectations regarding the potential benefits of face threading. Although the technique can provide the look of drooping skin a considerable lift, a standard facelift cannot be replaced by it.
Recognizing face threading's limitations will help you avoid being dissatisfied with the outcome. Your healthcare professional can assist you in establishing reasonable objectives and make sure you know exactly what the procedure can and cannot do.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While the majority of face threading side effects are minor and go away on their own, some signs could point to a more significant issue. It's critical to get medical help as soon as possible if you encounter any of the following symptoms:
- Severe Pain or Swelling: Although some soreness is typical following facial threading, extreme pain or swelling could point to an infection or another issue. Get in touch with your healthcare practitioner right away if you have severe pain that doesn't go better after taking over-the-counter medications.
- Fever: A fever should be checked by a medical practitioner since it may indicate an infection. You should contact a doctor right away if you experience a fever following your surgery.
- Persistent Redness or Discharge: These are indicators of an infection that need to be treated right away if the treated region is hot to the touch, reddens, or begins to leak pus. It's critical to treat these symptoms as soon as possible because infections can spread swiftly.
- Difficulty Moving Facial Muscles: You should get medical attention right away if you detect any drooping or have trouble moving your face muscles. This could be a sign of nerve injury. It's critical to get treatment as quickly as possible for nerve damage because it can have permanent implications.
Conclusion
Although face threading has some hazards, it can be a useful technique for lifting and revitalizing drooping skin. You can decide if face threading is best for you by being aware of the possible side effects, which can include everything from infection and bruises to nerve damage and unsatisfactory results.
If you want to get facial threading, you can reduce the likelihood of difficulties by selecting a qualified therapist and paying close attention to their recommendations. Remember that there is always a risk associated with cosmetic procedures. So before deciding, consider the probable advantages and disadvantages.
We hope that this thorough tutorial has given you insightful knowledge about the possible adverse face threading side effects.
Purchase Quality PDO Threads from Diaminy for Your Facial Threading!
So, do you need to reverse the effects of time on your face? Even with these side effects, facial threading can be a great deal. Buy the best PDO threads online from Diaminy Aesthetics for your facial threading. We have quality FDA approved threads that will minimize wrinkles and fine lines for a youthful glow.
Together, let's make wise choices about beauty!
