Avoid regret with Zetith Thread lift: When do depressions and thread protrusion occur, and when is thread removal needed?

With Thread lift procedures like Zetith Thread lift, regret often stems from a mismatch in expectations—such as "it didn't last as long as I thought"—and complications like depressions or thread protrusion.[1][2]Guidelines from Japan's Society of Aesthetic Surgeons explain that while Thread lift can provide temporary improvement, the results are modest and the duration is short.[1]Both can be avoided if you understand them before the procedure.

Why does it feel like results "reversed quickly"?

Thread lift results are not designed to last long-term. Research compilations indicate that because durability is limited, practitioners should clearly communicate this limitation to patients.[3]

Satisfaction levels decline over time. A meta-analysis of multiple studies showed that satisfaction was 98% immediately after the procedure but declined to 88% over the longer term.[2]

Research specifically investigating Zetith Thread lift does not yet exist. Here, explanations are based on reports of barbed Thread lift procedures overall. Choosing this as a "temporary contouring method" rather than "something that lasts for years" will reduce the gap between expectation and reality.

Why do cheek depressions and irregularities occur?

Dimple-like depressions on the cheeks are a common concern after Thread lift.[4]They are more likely to occur when the thread is pulled too tightly or when placement is off-target.[4]

Most depressions can be corrected by manually reshaping with finger pressure.[4]If depressions persist, additional treatment such as hyaluronic acid augmentation may be necessary.[4]

Persistent depressions, irregularities, and thread displacement are more likely when there is insufficient technical skill, poor patient selection, or inadequate understanding of facial anatomy.[4]Placing thread at the correct depth is key to reducing complications.[5]

What conditions make complications more likely?

Complications become more likely as age increases. In people over 50, indentations occurred in 16% (5.6% in younger people), and infection in 5.9% (0.7% in younger people).[2]

The reason cited is that sagging (skin laxity) becomes more pronounced with age, requiring greater force to lift, and the fat beneath the skin thins, making threads more prone to catching in shallow layers.[2]Skin thickness also decreases beneath the surface, making threads more likely to snag in shallower tissue.[2]

Thread type also makes a difference. Non-absorbable threads show higher rates of discomfort such as numbness (11.7% versus 3.1%) and threads protruding through the skin (7.6% versus 1.6%) compared to absorbable threads.[2]

When would thread removal be necessary?

Common reasons for patients to seek thread removal are thread protrusion, visible threads, indentations, and irregularities.[6]

In cases of granulomas (nodules), infection, or excessively hardened tissue, thread removal is sometimes the safest option.[5]If infection or inflammation is detected early and controlled with medication, removal may not be necessary.[4]

Serious complications overall are rare.[3]However, if infection develops around the threads, there is a risk of permanent scarring.[3]If you develop redness, warmth, or swelling on one side only, consult the clinic that performed the procedure promptly.

Will there be effects if I have surgery later?

Effects can occur. Prolonged inflammation, nodules, and irregularities following Thread lift can make future facial surgery more difficult, according to reports.[6]

If you are considering a surgical Facelift or similar procedures in the future, mention this during your consultation. Keeping a record of the thread type, number, and timing will make it easier to share this information with your next doctor.

What should I confirm during the consultation before the procedure?

There are two things to confirm: whether your sagging (skin laxity) is within the range that threads can address, and how long the results are expected to last.

During the consultation, ask about the type and number of threads to be used, how indentations will be corrected if they occur, and what will be done if thread removal becomes necessary. Share your age and any previous procedures you have had, and have the doctor examine your face in person before deciding.