The role of threads in facial rejuvenation: Is a skin lift possible without threads or surgery?

Title : The role of threads in facial rejuvenation: Is a skin lift possible without threads or surgery?

Abstract:

Introduction: Facial aging manifests through bone resorption, fat atrophy, skin laxity, and gravitational descent of soft tissues. While multiple non-invasive treatments claim lifting effects, only thread lifting and surgery directly reposition ptotic tissues. This review assesses whether non-thread, non-surgical treatments can provide a measurable lifting effect.

Objective: To compare the lifting effects of botulinum toxin, fillers, energy-based devices, biostimulators, threads, and surgical facelifts based on existing clinical evidence.

Methods: A literature review was conducted, evaluating studies measuring objective lifting outcomes in millimeters (mm) across various treatments. Data were extracted from clinical trials assessing botulinum toxin, radiofrequency (RF), high-intensity focused electrical stimulation (HIFES), dermal fillers, biostimulators, thread lifts, and surgical facelifts.

Results: Threads and surgical facelifts were the only treatments providing true lifting by physically repositioning tissues. Non-thread, non-surgical methods primarily created volume or skin tightening effects rather than true suspension of ptotic tissue.

Conclusion: Non-invasive treatments such as botulinum toxin, fillers, and energy-based devices offer temporary enhancements but do not achieve significant lifting. Threads provide an intermediate option between injectables and surgery, offering a measurable lifting effect with collagen stimulation. Facelift surgery remains the gold standard for long-term and significant lifting. These findings highlight the importance of managing patient expectations regarding lifting outcomes in aesthetic medicine.

Biography:

Dr. George M. Sulamanidze is a distinguished Plastic Surgeon and Dermatologist with over two decades of expertise in aesthetic surgery and dermatology, specializing in minimally invasive facial rejuvenation. He is an innovator and leader in Thread Lifting techniques and has made substantial contributions to aesthetic medicine, holding multiple patents and authoring numerous scientific publications. Dr. Sulamanidze completed his M.D. at the Medical State University of Russia in 2002, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. program in Plastic Surgery from 2002-2007 at the Russian Scientific Surgery Center (RAMS), where he conducted research on "New Methods of Liposuction" under the guidance of Prof. N.O. Milanov. He also earned a Master’s Degree in Dermatology from RUDN University in 2015, under the mentorship of Prof. O.G. Jukova. Dr. Sulamanidze is an active member of several professional organizations, including the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), and the Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons of Russia and Georgia (SPRAS). He was awarded the "Gold Scalpel" as "Plastic Surgeon of the Year" in 2008 and has published over 50 scientific articles. Holding 18 patents in plastic surgery, including 8 international patents, his innovations include the Aptos Threads for facial and body rejuvenation, the Wire Scalpel for precise contouring, a new implant for aesthetic surgery, the Therapeutic Brassiere for post-surgical support, and advanced techniques like Contour Compression Rhinoplasty, Accelerated Tissue Expansion, and minimally invasive anti-aging procedures.