Update on Absorbable Facial Thread Lifts.

[BACKGROUND] Thread lifts are a noninvasive technique for suspending ptotic skin. Previous studies have failed to show long-term efficacy data with absorbable threads.

[OBJECTIVE] To review the recent literature evaluating mid and lower facial absorbable thread lifts over a four-year period from October 2018 to December 2022.

[METHODS] A systematic review was done following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using the PubMed database. Search terms included "lift," "face lift," "thread lift," "suture suspension," "silhouette suture," "silhouette lift," "rhytidectomy," and "Aptos." Technique articles with objective results were included.

[RESULTS] Twelve studies met criteria for analysis ( n = 818). The most common thread evaluated was suture suspension using polydioxanone followed by poly- l -lactic acid/polycaprolactone absorbable threads. Scores according to the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, Wrinkle Severity Scale, Barton's Grading System, and FACE-Q improved in all cases immediately after the procedure. The longest follow-up assessments were at 2 years. Complications were mild.

[CONCLUSION] In the appropriate patient, thread lifts are immediately effective, and the risk of dangerous complications is low, but long-term efficacy data are lacking.