Does the finish of MINT Lift threads change based on thickness and number?

Thread character varies by thickness, barb (cog) direction, and number, but increasing the number does not necessarily increase satisfaction[1]. Analysis of 1,500 people in Japan showed a counterintuitive result: those who received more than 10 threads reported higher rates of dissatisfaction[2]. What should be decided first is not the number of threads, but where to place them.[3].

How do thread types differ?

The difference lies in thickness and the direction of the barbs. For PDO (absorbable thread material) barbed threads used in facial lifting, thickness ranges from 1-0 to 3-0.[3]Thicker threads provide stronger lift, but in areas with thin skin they become more palpable.

Barb direction is categorized into three types: unidirectional, bidirectional, and multidirectional.[4]The mechanism is that the barbs catch on tissue and lift it, so as the number of barbs increases, the strength of tissue gripping becomes stronger.[4]Recently, prospective studies have also been reported using threads with barbs attached in three-dimensional fashion on the central cheek and nasolabial folds.[5].

Does increasing the number of threads improve results?

Not necessarily. Comparative trials have been conducted to examine whether the number of threads affects outcomes, and the research title itself poses the question "Is more better?"[1].

Among 1,500 people who underwent Thread lift at multiple facilities in Japan, 51 expressed dissatisfaction with results.[2]When age and number of threads were analyzed, 43 years old and 10 threads emerged as the threshold, with a higher proportion of dissatisfaction among those who had more than 10 threads inserted.[2]The authors suggest that people with more threads may have originally had stronger Sagging (skin laxity), and it is possible they were at a stage where threads alone could not reach.[2].

How much does the placement location affect how long the results last?

The placement location affects results more than thickness. The layer where threads are placed is the subcutaneous tissue, and when placed in areas with frequent movement, protrusion and slippage tend to occur more easily, and facial movement interferes with thread fixation, leading to shorter-lasting effects.[3]When dividing the face with a vertical line at the temples, placement on the less-moving outer side rather than the frequently-moving front side is more suitable.[3].

How long does the effect last?

The guideline is 12–18 months, which overlaps with the period when the threads are being absorbed[6]. The same review also shows that patient satisfaction rates exceeding 85% are commonly reported[6].

On the other hand, some reports indicate that results reverse more quickly. When only lifting is performed without anchoring, regression can begin at 6 months, and at 12 months the initial improvement of the jawline is largely lost, with approximately 80% loss in the central cheek reported[4]. Another report states that sagging returns in 50% of cases within 6 months, with 14% experiencing reversion as early as 8 weeks[5]. Even Japanese medical society guidelines note that while Thread lift can be expected to provide temporary improvement, the effect is modest and duration is short, warranting only a weak recommendation[7].

Does the type of thread change the risk of complications?

There are not many reports directly comparing safety by thread type. In a study comparing barbed threads combined with push-out mechanisms to standard cog threads, adverse events were few, and mild symptoms such as pain and discomfort resolved naturally without surgery[8].

Rather, what requires attention is thread displacement and infection. The fact that papers have been published documenting measures to prevent thread migration shows that slippage is a practical concern[9]. Case reports of bacterial infection following barbed-thread lift procedures have also appeared, and although the frequency is low, you should be informed of it as a potential occurrence[10].

Four points to confirm at your consultation

First, determine whether your sagging is at a stage that threads can address, or whether you should consider a surgical lift[2]. Second, check whether the placement area for the threads is a region with minimal movement[3]. Third, confirm how many threads are planned and the reason why[1]. Fourth, understand the plan for what to do when the effect begins to diminish[6].

Skin thickness, strength of sagging, and facial movement patterns vary from person to person. The figures mentioned here are group averages and do not predict how many months results will last on your face. At your consultation, have your sagging position and skin laxity examined in person, and together confirm how much change the threads can achieve and within what range