Mini-midface Lift Using Polydioxanone Cog Threads

Abstract

Background: Deepening of the nasolabial fold with reduced malar highlight caused by sagging of the midface is one of the most important characteristics of facial aging. This report describes the use of 18-G polydioxanone (PDO) cog threads to improve midface soft tissue sagging and achieve satisfactory results through a minimally invasive procedure. Methods: In total, 64 patients (all women; age, 33–60 years) underwent a midface thread lift from January 2017 to January 2018. After a stab incision was made through an 18-G needle over the lateral orbital rim, three 18-G precannulated PDO cog threads were inserted, targeting the deep medial fat pad and inner layer of the superficial muscular aponeurotic system. The threads were anchored to the periosteum of the lateral orbit, suspending the soft tissue to a more superior direction. Surgical results were evaluated subjectively (patient satisfaction ratings) and objectively (blinded physician ratings based on changes in the vertical position of the malar highlight). Results: No major complications (postoperative hematoma, infection, or temporary sensory/motor decreases) were observed. The mean procedural time was 15 minutes, and all patients underwent local anesthesia. Patient satisfaction was the highest at 1 month postoperatively (mean, 4.7/5.0), decreasing at 1 year postoperatively (2.8/5.0). The scores on the objective assessment followed the same trend (4.5/5.0 at 1 month; 3.1/5.0 at 1 year). Conclusion: Using PDO cog threads for midface lifting is simpler, quicker, and less invasive than using conventional surgical methods, and this method simultaneously achieves satisfactory results for at least 6 months.

Proposed Treatment Protocols for Facial Rejuvenation Using a Novel Absorbable Polydioxanone Monofilament Threadlift in Koreans: Empirical Perspectives of Aesthetic Physicians and Surgeons

“…For facial rejuvenation procedures using the Mint Lift, the entry and exit points are determined considering the anatomic characteristics of the face, as previously described. 12 , 17-19 …”

“…(2) Treatment procedures may vary depending on indications (level of evidence III). 12 , 17-19 But this deserves further evidence-based studies.…”

“… 16 , 21 , 23 , 24 Of the absorbable PDO threadlifts, Mint Lift has been reported to be an effective, safe one. 12 , 17-19 , 24-26 From empirical perspectives, treatment effects are sustained during a maximum period of approximately 8 months, for which further long-term follow-up studies are mandatory. Moreover, facial rejuvenation procedures using the Mint Lift require no overcorrection.…”

“…Since then, diverse types of threadlifting procedures have been developed. 12 Particularly in Asia, polydioxanone (PDO) threadlifts have recently become commercially available and then used for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation procedures. 13-16 …”

Alleviation of Osteoarthritis-Induced Pain and Motor Deficits in Rats by a Novel Device for the Intramuscular Insertion of Cog Polydioxanone Filament

“…For many years, various types of threads made of PDO have been used for surgery and, more recently, for skin rejuvenation [19]. In particular, cog threads are widely used for cosmetic purposes, because they have barbs that hook and hold the tissue underneath the skin to lift sagging tissue [24,25]. In this study, we expanded the scope of their current applications to muscles and related joint diseases using MEST, which allow safe and simple intramuscular delivery of cog PDO filaments.…”