Complications Following Facial Thread-Lifting

Background Facial thread-lifting(FTL)is a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation technique.However,to date,no study has focused on the treatment of complications associated with FTL.The purpose of this study was to report on clinical manifestations of complications following FTL and their treatment methods.Methods We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of patients who presented with complications of FTL.Patient demographics,medical history,types and clinical manifestations of complications,imaging,treatment methods,histopathological findings,and follow-up information were collected.Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.Results Our sample included 61 patients,all women,with a mean age of 36.3±8.9 years.The most common reason for consultation was infection(31.2%),followed by dissatisfaction with postoperative facial contour(23%),paresthesia(19.7%),dimpling and irregularity(16.4%),subcutaneous induration(13.1%),thread extrusion(4.9%),and facial nerve injury(3.3%).Fifty-one(83.6%)patients reported alleviated symptoms after receiving pharmaceutical and physical therapies.Surgical interventions,including debridement and thread removal,were required in 10 patients(16.4%).Threads were completely or partially removed in 5 patients within 3 months of the initial FTL.During a median follow-up of 1.7 years,9 patients recovered well and were satisfied with the clinical outcomes,whereas one patient was unsatisfied due to dimpling and scarring.Conclusions The results show that most complications after FTL can be treated nonsurgically.Revision surgery is recommended for patients with recurrent infection,thread extrusion,and subcutaneous induration.Aesthetic surgeons and dermatologists should comply with the indications for FTL and optimize surgical procedures to minimize the risk of complications.