Beauty for All
Walks of Life

Understanding the Basics of Hyaluronic Acid and Thread Lifts

What is Hyaluronic Acid? Its Mechanism and Role

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that resembles artificial mochi and can add volume. It comes in various consistencies, each suitable for different areas of the body. It’s easy to use as it only requires an injection. It’s designed to minimize adverse reactions in the body, making it low-risk.

What is Thread Lift? Its Characteristics and Effects

In a thread lift, threads with barbs (cogs) are inserted into the face. These threads can shift the position of fat. The procedure lifts the skin in an upward direction, counteracting gravity, which makes it ideal for treating sagging.

What Problems Do These Treatments Address?

There are three major changes that come with aging: sagging, volume loss, and skin texture. Thread lifts are great for improving sagging, while hyaluronic acid excels at restoring volume. Some hyaluronic acid can also improve skin texture.

The Appeal and Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

The Convenience and Immediate Results of Hyaluronic Acid

The greatest feature of hyaluronic acid is that the results are immediately visible. Not only is it effective quickly, but you can adjust it during the process for a more refined finish. This makes it ideal for anyone who requires fine adjustments or has specific requests, such as balancing asymmetry.

Adjustable Effects Based on Injection Amount and Area

The injection amount can be subtly adjusted. You can predict the results as you inject, without worrying too much about the retention rate or expansion. It’s also possible to adjust the depth of the injection for more precise results.

Minimal Downtime, Easy to Return to Daily Life

Hyaluronic acid is designed to blend easily with tissues and avoid triggering negative reactions in the body. There’s minimal downtime, making it easy to return to daily activities. However, it’s not entirely free of risks, so if any issues arise, it’s important to consult your doctor right away.

The Appeal and Benefits of Thread Lifts

Lift Effect for Sagging Skin

Thread lifts involve inserting dissolvable threads with barbs into the skin. These threads catch on tissue and lift sagging skin. Typically, the procedure targets the fat tissue and lifts it upwards.

Collagen-Stimulating “Firming Effect”

After the threads are inserted, the body’s natural healing process occurs around the threads, stimulating collagen production. Collagen is permanent and integrates into the skin, creating a more youthful appearance. Regular treatments can make the skin less prone to sagging.

Recommended for Those Seeking Natural Results

Thread lifts don’t require cutting or stretching the skin, so no permanent scars are left. While there are small insertion points initially, these heal and disappear within a few weeks, leaving no visible scars.

Comparing Hyaluronic Acid and Thread Lifts

Differences in Procedure Process

Hyaluronic acid is typically injected with a fine needle, while thread lifts usually require proper anesthesia. People tend to find the hyaluronic acid procedure less resistant.

Comparing Duration and Maintenance Frequency

Both treatments typically require maintenance every year or so.

Differences in Cost and Cost-Effectiveness

It’s best to refer to the clinic’s price list. For thread lifts, you may need about 10 threads, while for hyaluronic acid, around 2-3 syringes might be required.

Which Should You Choose? Key Factors for Choosing

As you age, sagging and volume loss become more pronounced. Choose the treatment that best addresses the level of these issues. For severe sagging, thread lifts may be necessary, and in some cases, hyaluronic acid alone may not suffice.

Choosing the Right Treatment for Specific Areas of Concern

Different people have concerns about various areas, such as the temples, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, or sagging cheeks. The cause of the issue—whether sagging or volume loss—is key in choosing the right treatment.

Combining Hyaluronic Acid and Thread Lifts

Hyaluronic acid is great for volume loss, while thread lifts address sagging. Combining both treatments can improve overall results and provide a natural finish.

Important Points to Know Before Undergoing Treatment

Differences in Downtime and Aftercare

Thread lifts take about a month to show their full effect. During this period, discomfort or tightness may persist. It's best to undergo the treatment when you’re comfortable with the downtime.

Risks and Side Effects to Be Aware Of

The risks for hyaluronic acid include infection, allergies, and circulation problems, while thread lifts carry the risk of physical damage. If the threads hit the parotid gland or nerves, there may be pain and swelling for a while.

Choosing the Right Clinic

The right clinic depends on your individual needs and the experience of the medical staff with the specific procedures you’re considering.

Yoshiko Kuno