How to choose a clinic for MINT lift—what should you look for?

Rather than the number of cases, look at the quality of explanation before placing threads. Research has identified conditions leading to dissatisfaction, with two benchmarks: age and thread count.[1]However, there is currently no research showing that 'longer experience correlates with better results.'[1].

Is the difference in operator experience confirmed by research?

Not yet. A Japanese cosmetic surgery study of 1,500 patients found that all physicians performing the procedure had completed the same in-house training and followed standardized protocols.[1]For this reason, the paper itself states that whether results vary by experience has not been separately investigated.[1].

The same research group also compiled follow-up data on over 110,000 Thread lift cases.[2]Even so, no figures linking 'how many years the physician has been practicing' to outcomes have been produced. Therefore, it is more realistic to judge based on the quality of explanation rather than making years of experience the deciding factor.

What conditions are known to lead to dissatisfaction?

Age and thread count. Of the 1,500 patients, 51 showed dissatisfaction with results, and analysis revealed a threshold at age 43 and 10 threads.[1]Those who had more than 10 threads placed showed a higher rate of dissatisfaction.[1].

It has been suggested that patients with more threads may have had severe sagging (skin laxity) from the outset—a stage where threads alone cannot suffice.[1]In other words, the discussion of thread count connects to whether threads are adequate. If you hear 'putting in more will solve it,' that is a moment to ask further questions.

What is the basis for the proposed thread count?

The relationship between thread count and effect has been examined directly in comparative trials.[3]The research title itself posed the question 'is more always better?'—it was a study designed to test the premise that increasing numbers always improves results.[3].

At your consultation, ask the reason for the proposed thread count. Threads are placed in the subcutaneous tissue, and the location and direction must follow anatomical landmarks.[4]Whether the explanation prioritizes 'where to place' over 'how many to place' is a key clue for discernment.[4].

How should thread type be explained naturally?

Whether material differences can be explained as mechanical properties. Materials such as PDO, PCL, and PLLA are organized as having different firmness and absorption rates.[5]Thread shape (direction and form of barbs) and their suitability for different applications are also matters to be confirmed before and after treatment.[6].

How placed threads change inside the body has also been studied. Ultrasound reports have tracked changes in thread diameter—threads do not remain in their original form after placement.[7]It is also worth noting whether options after the effect fades are discussed.[8].

Where do cleanliness and complications appear?

Infection is rare but significant when it occurs. In case reports of bacterial infection following barbed PDO thread lift, technical error or an inappropriate surgical environment during treatment are considered the most likely causes.[9].

Sterile technique is not visible from outside. For this reason, whether contact information and response procedures for swelling or redness are established before treatment actually provides reassurance.[6].

Four things to ask at your consultation

First, whether your sagging is at a stage treatable by threads or requires surgical excision.[1]Second, where and in which direction the threads are planned to be placed.[4]Third, the reason for that thread count.[3]Fourth, contact information and the response protocol if infection or severe swelling develops.[9].

Skin thickness, degree of sagging, and facial movement vary from person to person. The figures mentioned here are results from population studies and do not predict your individual results. Since the location of sagging and skin redundancy must be assessed in person, use your consultation to confirm together how far the threads can change your appearance.