Outcomes in thread lift for facial rejuvenation: a study performed with happy lift™ revitalizing

Abstract

Introduction: Barbed suture lifting is a minimally invasive surgical technique for facial rejuvenation. This study examined the efficacy and associated risks with this procedure, using a new synthetic, monofilament suspension thread named "Happy Lift™ Revitalizing" (Promoitalia International S.r.l, Naples, Italy).

Methods: All the patients had average aging signs and required a lifting of modest degree. A total of 37 thread lifts were performed over a 24-month period.

Results: In the majority of patients (89%), the results obtained were considered satisfactory. The incidence of complications was low. Only 6% of the patients had slight post-operation asymmetry that was easily corrected. Minor complications experienced by patients included small ecchymosis (62%), mild erythema (40%), small hemorrhage (25%), mild transitory esthesia (6%) and mild post-operation tumefaction (40%). Histopathological and ecographic analyses were performed on the treated skin of selected patients, demonstrating that the lifting effect is guaranteed and fortified by the cutaneous reaction that appears along the length of the thread.

Conclusion: Thread lift with "Happy Lift™ Revitalizing" is a safe procedure associated with minor complications, when performed on cohorts of patients requiring a facial lifting of modest degree.

Fig. 1

a Double needle for the treatment of the eyebrow; b double needle for the redefinition of the mandibular contour; c double needle for the treatment of the neck

Fig. 2

Exemplificative case of facial rejuvenation. A patient treated for the redefinition of the mandibular contour. a Before the treatment. b Immediately after the treatment. c 6 months after the treatment

Fig. 3

a Fragment of skin removed 2 months after the procedure from the right cheek containing a white microscopic filament (Happy Lift™ Revitalizing). (H & E, original magnification ×20). b Fragment of skin taken from the right cheek 60 days after the operation. The dermis next to the areas of the right zygomatic malar, where the “Happy Lift™ Revitalizing” thread is inserted, normally represents annexation structures and vessels with no signs of inflammation; an increase in the thickness of the papilla can also be noticed. (H & E, original magnification ×10). c Fragment of subcutaneous tissue removed 2 months after the procedure, showing a connective structure forming a ring with a thickness of around 70 μm around a cavity seat of the “Happy Lift™ Revitalizing”. (H & E, original magnification ×20)

Fig. 4

Ultrasound evaluation of the treated zygomatic area of two different patients 90 days from the date of the implant. a The hyper-echogenicity due to the marginal long-lasting fibrosis around the threads is evident; b The particular stereotaxic disposition of the threads route is to be noticed