Shopping Lift and other Thread lifts: what's the difference? Three points to check when comparing

When comparing Thread lifts, three factors actually affect the results: thread direction (barb placement), number of threads, and material. Even if the names or product brands differ, similar results typically follow when these three factors are comparable. Shopping Lift is mechanically a type of Thread lift, and research comparing this product name alone does not yet exist. When comparing Thread lifts with each other, here we clarify the differences you should actually observe.

How does barb direction change results?

Threads come in several patterns depending on barb direction. Thicker threads combined with larger barbs are reported to be suited for lifting heavier areas such as under the chin, while thinner threads with finer barbs are suited for delicate areas such as around the eyes.[1]Previously, it was standard practice to use a U-shaped design on the outer face and an I-shaped design on the front, but reports indicate that as the quality of I-shaped designs has improved, I-shaped designs alone can now achieve lifting effects and duration comparable to U-shaped designs.[1].

Biomechanical comparisons have shown that the very force with which tissues are held in place can vary depending on how the threads are oriented—for example, whether a combination of bidirectional and multidirectional vectors is used, or whether bidirectional threads are doubled.[2].

Does increasing the number of threads increase effectiveness?

Increasing the number of threads does not necessarily increase effectiveness. A randomized controlled trial comparing effectiveness by varying the number of PDO (polydioxanone) threads demonstrated that the relationship between thread count and effectiveness is not simply proportional[3]. It is premature to judge quality based solely on thread count.

Thread selection varies depending on material and treatment area

Thread selection varies depending on the material and the area where threads are placed. There are reviews that organize the differences in composition and performance for each material from a technical perspective[4][5]Materials used in Thread lift are selected according to the purpose and area of treatment. Safety data has been accumulated in safety reviews of medical devices made of PDO in general, but comparisons that go into detail on direction and number of threads are limited.[6].

There are also reports targeting specific areas.

There are prospective studies using bidirectional barbed threads with three-dimensional structure targeting the mid-face and nasolabial folds.[7]However, this targets a specific area and specific thread type, and cannot be directly applied to other areas or threads under other brand names.

"Effect is temporary" as a common premise

In the clinical guidelines of the Japan Society of Aesthetic Surgeons, Thread lift treatment for facial wrinkles and sagging (skin laxity) is expected to provide temporary improvement, but because the effect is not large and the duration is short, sufficient explanation is required, with a recommendation level of 2 (weakly recommended).[8]This is a common premise for the entire Thread lift category, regardless of thread direction, number, or material.

Points to confirm during consultation

The first is what direction and number the proposed threads have, and what area they are intended for.[1][2]The second is whether there is clinical data for that combination, or whether it is an inference based on general Thread lift knowledge.[7][3]The third is, given the premise that the effect is temporary, what maintenance intervals are being considered.[8]Confirm with your doctor during the actual consultation which combination is right for your skin and bone structure.