Avoid regret with TEX3D Thread lift: know the longevity and potential depression beforehand

Regret from Thread lift procedures like TEX3D Thread lift often stems from a gap in expectations: "the lift is less than expected, and the results don't last long."[1][2]While Thread lift can provide temporary improvement, the effects are modest and durability is short; the Japan Society of Aesthetic Surgeons guidelines emphasize the need for thorough explanation.[1]The likelihood of this gap varies depending on age, degree of sagging (skin laxity), and the number of threads used.[3][4].

What is the most common type of regret?

The most common gap is in expectations about the magnitude of effect and longevity. A review of overseas research included studies where sagging recurred in half of patients within 6 months, and studies where 45% had "moderate" or "insufficient" lift.[2].

Large-scale clinical data in Japan also indicate that the duration of effect is approximately 6–12 months, depending on thread material and location.[5]If you expect it to last for years like surgical Facelift, the gap in expectations will be larger.

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates are those with mild skin sagging (skin laxity) and primarily shallow wrinkles.[4]Conversely, those with severe sagging who need excess skin removed, or those seeking dramatic immediate results, are considered poor candidates.[4].

Reports also show better outcomes in people with relatively less facial fat and well-defined bone structure.[4]Before treatment, the most important thing to confirm is whether your sagging (skin laxity) is within the range the thread can reach.

Does increasing the number of threads improve satisfaction?

Increasing the number of threads does not necessarily improve satisfaction. In a survey of 1,500 people in Japan, 51 patients returned for retreatment due to insufficient effect. The proportion was higher among those aged 43 and older, and those who received more than 10 threads.[3].

Researchers believe that people with more severe sagging tend to have more threads used, and that an expectation of "more threads mean more lift" underlies this trend.[3]Note that this survey used PDO, a different thread material, and does not study TEX3D itself.

What happens if dimpling or irregularity develops?

Dimpling like dimples is an occasional complication. In a survey of 342 people in Japan, dimpling was observed in 11.7%, thread palpability in 2.3%, and temporary asymmetry in 0.9%.[5].

Dimpling tends to occur when threads are pulled too tightly or placed incorrectly.[6]The physician may reshape it manually or address it with injections.[6].

What precautions are needed against infection or thread problems?

Although the frequency is low, infection and procedures to remove threads can occur. Resorbable threads have also been reported to have bacterial complications, and examples exist where the thread broke during removal, requiring multiple incisions.[7].

Cases have been reported where four years after thread insertion, recurrent inflammatory nodules developed at the temple.[8]If redness, pus, or nodules appear long after treatment, inform your doctor that you have had a Thread lift procedure.

What should I confirm during consultation before treatment?

The three key points to confirm are: whether your sagging (skin laxity) can be reached by threads, which thread and how many will be used, and how long the effect is expected to last. It is reassuring to also ask about how post-treatment dimpling will be managed and when you will be seen for follow-up.

If threads alone are insufficient, you will need to consider other methods such as injections or surgical procedures. Communicate to your physician the degree of change you desire, have them examine your face, and consult to make your decision.