Update and Important Information
from Dr John Tanqueray
Threadlifting
Threadlifting in various forms has been available for some time now, previously in the form of permanent sutures inserted under the skin. About 5 years ago threadlifts became more widely available as absorbable threads were introduced.
However threadlifting of any sort gives only a quite subtle lifting effect.
Threads for Collagen Stimulation
The idea of using threads to stimulate collagen within the skin originated in Korea. Having become popular there the ideas were taken up for use in Europeans, who have rather different skin types.
Where Koreans were using it mainly for skin texture and a little tightening, demand in Europe was more for a “facelift” effect, and threads promised to be the next Holy Grail.
We carried out a limited number of such procedures and John concluded that threadlifting in the face can deliver subtle results, but at much greater cost and lesser duration and effect than by using dermal fillers, which remains his preferred treatment for lifting.
Because there is usually less weight and less movement in the neck this is an area where we have seen more success, but still a lot of variation in how long the treatment benefit lasts.
Our Experience & Advice
Over recent years we have met a good number of people who have had the procedure done elsewhere but have felt very disappointed with the effect they have seen (not to mention the money they had spent), and we have a strong feeling that thread treatments are being over-promoted and often being used in people who are unlikely to achieve a satisfactory result.
The conclusion we came to some time ago is that for a small number of people threadlifting can be effective, but will generally cost twice as much as an equivalent result achieved with dermal filler, hence the numbers of treatments carried out at Mulberry House has been fairly low.
During this time we have continued to present threads as an option on our website, although often when meeting patients who are keen on the idea of threads have recommended more suitable alternatives.
New Regulations for Thread Lifts
There have recently been changes in regulation making it more difficult for medical practitioners to offer these treatments, and so we do not now offer threadlifts. Curiously (some would say outrageously) practitioners who have no medical qualifications are not covered by the same regulations and are able to continue to offer treatments without any checks and balances in place.
Advice on Threadlifts
Our advice to you would be to consider all options prior to deciding on thread treatments, and if you are still keen to undergo threadlifting treatment ensure that you see an experienced and registered practitioner.
We will always discuss treatments that we do not carry out as well as those we do, so will happily see you to answer any questions you may have.
