Thread lifting of the midface: A pilot study for quantitative evaluation.

Volume restoration remains the principal target to be addressed when approaching midface rejuvenation, and absorbable sutures can create a suspension system that addresses ptotic skin located primarily in the midface. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the effectiveness in lifting sagging tissue and to determine the outcome of thread lifting procedures of the midface. Six participants were enrolled and treated with suspension threads to correct mild to moderate ptosis of the flabby tissues of the midface. Volumetric changes were calculated at t0 (pretreatment), t1(120 days) and t2 (365 days), with a mean follow-up time of 349.64 days, (range from 304 to 380.5 days). Results showed an overall average improvement of 5.59 mL at 120 days (t0-t1) after thread implantation, up to a mean value of 4.16 mL at the end of the 350 days follow up (t0-t2). A comparison was made in between and statistical analysis was performed with level of significance set at P < .05. The records shown suggest that it is possible to achieve volume restoration which lasts up to 12 months as all parameters improved significantly (P < .05) at t1 and at t2 with respect to t0. Facial tissues suspension by means of threads is therefore safe and effective, as it is possible to achieve tissue repositioning which lasts up to 12 months for the correction of mild to moderate ptosis of the midface.