Beauty for All
Walks of Life

Effects of Shopping Threads on Nasolabial Folds

What Are Nasolabial Folds?

Nasolabial folds are lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, also known as the nasolabial groove.
They are not prominent when you are young, but as the bones around the nose expand and the cheeks sag, they become more noticeable.

Basic Mechanism of Shopping Threads

Many needles are inserted into the face. These needles are attached to thin threads, which remain under the skin.
The insertion points and the areas where the threads are placed form minor wounds, prompting the production of collagen fibers.
These fibers create a supportive network that helps prevent sagging. Additionally, the scar tissue formed during the healing process firms up the skin, reducing sagging.

Effects of Shopping Threads on Nasolabial Folds

By creating collagen fibers along the nasolabial folds, the sagging of the cheeks can be improved.
Furthermore, inserting shopping threads across the folds can make them appear less prominent.

Shopping Thread Procedure and Recovery

Importance of Pre-Treatment Consultation

It is crucial to discuss where and how the needles will be inserted, as well as the desired outcome, with your doctor.
A consultation helps visualize the expected results.

Procedure Steps and Precautions on the Day of Treatment

Upon arrival, you will fill out a medical questionnaire.
A consultation will be conducted to determine the insertion points for the threads.
Once the design is finalized, you will proceed with payment and wash your face.
If anesthesia is needed, numbing cream will be applied after cleansing.
Once the anesthesia takes effect, you will wash your face again, and the needles will be inserted according to the planned design.
After the threads are placed, the needles will be removed, and pressure will be applied for about five minutes to stop any bleeding.
Once bleeding is controlled, the procedure is complete.

Post-Treatment Recovery and Downtime

There will be initial swelling, which may increase over the next 2–3 days.
Bruising and swelling typically subside within two weeks.

Types of Shopping Threads and Their Characteristics

Differences Between Thread Lifts and Shopping Threads

Thread Lifts use barbed (cogged) threads that hook onto the fat and tissue to physically lift sagging areas.
Shopping Threads create controlled wounds that generate collagen fibers, reinforcing the skin's support structure naturally.

Recommended Number of Threads for Treatment

40 threads (both sides) for the fat pads over the nasolabial folds.
40 threads (both sides) for the fat pads near the marionette lines.
40 threads for the area under the chin.

Best Areas for Shopping Threads

Shopping threads work best in soft, fatty areas of the face.
If unsure, consult with a doctor who can assess your skin by touch.

Shopping Thread Pricing and Plans

Cost of Shopping Threads in Ginza

Prices vary by clinic.
(Note: This clinic is located in Shinjuku.)

Package Plans and Discounts

A more even and widespread application yields better results.
Using package deals or discounts to insert around 80 threads can enhance effectiveness.

Price Comparison and Market Rates

Due to material costs and the number of threads required, the minimum price is typically around 20,000 yen.

Expected Results and Patient Feedback

How Long Until Results Are Visible?

Noticeable improvement appears after about one month.
Downtime lasts about two weeks, during which swelling and bruising may occur—try not to worry about it too much during this period.

Cases Where Results May Be Unsatisfactory

If the number of threads is insufficient or the design is inadequate, the treatment may not be effective.
If results seem lacking, try inserting the threads across the nasolabial folds or marionette lines for better improvement.

Yoshiko Kuno