Barbed thread for eye corner lift? (mid 20's female)

Question

Hi ! I want almond shaped eyes, by slightly lifting the corner of my eyes+ little brow lift. I thought of lifting the skin which is under the lower eyelid via an incision in the temple area (like a mini cheeklift), but my surgeon said he'll put 2 permanent barbed threads to lift each eyelid and one for each brow + remove excess skin if needed. He said it's the only permanent way to achieve it as a endoscopic lift won't give me good result. Is this a viable option? THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR TIME

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Most cases appropriate for lifting the corner of the lower eyelids would be performed via canthopexy. This gives long lasting results. The brow could be lifted with a few techniques. Without seeing photographs, you are best seeing an oculoplastic surgeon with extensive experience. I hope you find this helpful.

Christian L. Stallworth, MD · Answer

Without photos it is difficult to lend a descent opinion.  However, the use of barbed threads has generally fallen out of favor due to complications like extrusion and palpability/visibility.  If you have concerns about the options presented, seek a second opinion.  Ask to review photos of similar patients your surgeon has treated to get an idea of their outcomes as well.Good luck.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

Years ago, we tried barbed sutures for easier and faster recovery in facial aesthetic surgery.  Although the results were generally good, sometimes patients felt the sutures and then we had to remove them.  This was not a terrible outcome and typical had little serious consequence in my experience, but was certainly disappointing for the patient and surgeon.At this time, I don't used barbed sutures alone for lifts anymore, although I think they are very powerful and have many applications.  Without photos and a good examination, no surgeon on this site can give you a solid recommendation, but I would simply say that there is no "one way" to do anything in plastic surgery, and two good surgeons may differ in their approach but will often have different techniques and nuances.  As long as the results are good and meet your expectations, the job is well done.

Jeffrey S. Rosenthal, MD · Answer

It would good to see a picture of your lids.  However, in general not a great idea to place a barbed permanent suture near the lids.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

Without photos, it is impossible for us to give you any advice.  If you do not want to post public photos, you can e-mail us directly to our websites.  Typically, the use of barbed thread is not common.  Many times, the threads can be seen/felt, especially in the eye area or thin individuals.  I suggest sending some photos for more individualized information.

Barbed thread for eye corner lift? (mid 20's female)

Answers (5)

Answer: Probably not a good idea

Answer: Probably not a good idea

Answer: Barbed thread for eye corner lift?

Answer: Barbed thread for eye corner lift?

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

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Barbed thread for eye corner lift? (mid 20's female)

Answers (5)

Answer: Probably not a good idea

Answer: Probably not a good idea

Answer: Barbed thread for eye corner lift?

Answer: Barbed thread for eye corner lift?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.