High-Resolution Ultrasound for Diagnosing and Managing Complications Arising from Thread Lift Procedures

Authors

  • Claudia Gonzalez Radiologist, Rosario University. Vicechair of the dermatology ultrasound community at the AIUM
  • Claudia Arenas Dermatologist. Specialist in university teaching. New Granada Military University
  • Valeria Duque-Clavijo Medical student. School of Medicine, Andes University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31907/2414-2093.2022.09.01.1

Keywords:

Fistulas, Nodules, Granulomas, High-Resolution Ultrasound, Threads

Abstract

Facial rejuvenation with thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure that is increasingly being utilized due to its tightening and collagen-stimulating effects. Despite its advantages, it is not exempt from the development of complications, including visible or palpable threads, nodules, fistulas, granulomas, thread extrusion, hematomas, and sunken cheeks, among others. Accurate diagnosis and management can benefit from high-resolution ultrasound exploration, which allows for precise determination of the complication type and provides anatomical information essential for its management. In this publication, we present a review of the characteristic ultrasonographic aspects of these complications. 

References

Tavares J de P, Oliveira CACP, Torres RP, Bahmad F. Facial thread lifting with suture suspension. Brazilian J Otorhinolaryngol (English Ed. 2017 Nov 1;83(6):712–9.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjorl.2017.03.015

Myung Y, Jung C. Mini-midface Lift Using Polydioxanone Cog Threads. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020 Jun 24;8(6):E2920. https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.000000000000292

Park YJ, Cha JH, Han SE. Maximizing Thread Usage for Facial Rejuvenation: A Preliminary Patient Study. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2021 Apr 1;45(2):528–35. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-020-01919-4

Wong V. The Science of Absorbable Poly(LLactide-Co-ε-Caprolactone) Threads for Soft Tissue Repositioning of the Face: An EvidenceBased Evaluation of Their Physical Properties and Clinical Application. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2021;14:45. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s274160

M AC, Claudia G, C CM, A SL. Facial Rejuvenation with Threads: Clinical, Ultrasonographic and Histological Correlation. J Adv Plast Surg Res. 2023 Sep 2;8(1):1–7. https://doi.org/10.31907/2414-2093.2022.08.01.1

Kapicioǧlu Y, Gül M, Saraç G, Yiǧitcan B, Gözükara H. Comparison of Antiaging Effects on Rat Skin of Cog Thread and Poly-l-Lactic Acid Thread. Dermatologic Surg. 2019 Mar

;45(3):438–45. https://doi.org/10.1097/dss.0000000000001717

Kim CM, Kim BY, Hye Suh D, Lee SJ, Moon HR, Ryu HJ. The efficacy of powdered polydioxanone in terms of collagen production compared with poly-L-lactic acid in a murine

model. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019 Dec 1;18(6):1893–8. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12894

Sinuco LA, Jaimes ÁO, González C, Gaviria LM. Recurrent Granuloma in the Nose: A Diagnostic Challenge. J Adv Plast Surg Res. 2023 Oct 17;8(1):13–7. https://doi.org/10.31907/2414-2093.2022.08.01.3

Sulamanidze M, Sulamanidze G, Vozdvizhensky I, Sulamanidze C. Avoiding complications with Aptos sutures. Aesthetic Surg J. 2011 Nov;31(8):863–73. https://doi.org/10.1177/1090820x11422700

Li YL, Li ZH, Chen XY, Xing WS, Hu JT. Facial Thread Lifting Complications in China: Analysis and Treatment. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2021 Sep 17;9(9):E3820.

https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000003820

Choi E, Cheong EC, Leow YH. Extrusion of suture and granuloma formation from a neck thread lift. Dermatol Online J. 2021;27(9). https://doi.org/10.5070/d327955145

Wortsman X. Common Applications of Dermatologic Sonography. J Ultrasound Med. 2012 Jan 1;31(1):97–111. https://doi.org/10.7863/jum.2012.31.1.97

González CP. Ultrasonido de alta resolución en enfermedades benignas de la piel. Rev la Asoc Colomb Dermatología y Cirugía Dermatológica. 2018 Dec 1;26(4):230–9.

https://doi.org/10.29176/2590843x.124

González Díaz CP. Characterization of Dermatological lesions by Ultrasound. Rev Colomb Radiol. 2014;25(3):9.

Wortsman X. Top applications of dermatologic ultrasonography that can modify management. Ultrasonography. 2023 Apr 1;42(2):183. https://doi.org/10.14366/usg.22130

Cavallieri FA, Balassiano LK de A, Munhoz G, Tembra MF, Wortsman X. Ultrasound in Aesthetics: Filler and Non-Filler Applications. Semin Ultrasound, CT MRI. 2023 Dec 10. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.sult.2023.11.005

Gonzalez C, Wortsman X. How to Start on Dermatologic Ultrasound: Basic Anatomical Concepts, Guidelines, Technical Considerations, and Best Tips. Semin Ultrasound, CT MRI. 2023 Dec 4. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.sult.2023.11.001

Wortsman X, Alfageme F, Roustan G, AriasSantiago S, Martorell A, Catalano O, et al. Guidelines for Performing Dermatologic Ultrasound Examinations by the DERMUS Group. J Ultrasound Med. 2016 Mar 1;35(3):577–80. https://doi.org/10.7863/ultra.15.06046

Niu Z, Zhang K, Yao W, Li Y, Jiang W, Zhang Q, et al. A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of the Incidences of Complications Following Facial Thread-Lifting. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2021 Oct 1;45(5):2148–58. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-021-02256-w

Yoo KH, Kim WS, Hong CK, Kim BJ. Chronic inflammatory reaction after thread lifting: Delayed unusual complication of nonabsorbable thread. Dermatologic Surg. 2015 Apr 15;41(4):510–3. https://doi.org/10.1097/dss.0000000000000327

Published

2024-03-05 — Updated on 2024-03-05

Issue

Section

Articles