Thread lifts use temporary medical-grade sutures to lift and tighten skin. They have become a popular option for those looking to rejuvenate their appearance without going under the knife.

And while the results can be transformative, some swelling is normal as your body adjusts to the changes and heals. 

However, if you notice that your swelling seems to be sticking around longer than expected, your body might need a little extra help.

In this blog, we’ll understand why swelling might last longer than usual and share tips on how to reduce swelling after thread lift. Whether you’re considering a thread lift or already recovering from one, these tips can help you heal more comfortably.

Thread lift swelling — what’s going on?

Swelling is a typical response your body has to any kind of medical procedure — and thread lifts are no exception. 

During the procedure, tiny sutures are placed under your skin to create a “lifting” effect (hence the name). This naturally triggers your body’s healing process. 

As part of this process, fluids and white blood cells rush to the area to protect and repair the tissues. The swelling is your body’s way to a quick recovery, even though it might look concerning at first.

What’s Normal

Swelling is expected. It’s a sign that your body is doing exactly what it should to mend the manipulated tissues. 

In the days following the procedure, you can expect the treated area to be somewhat swollen as the body’s natural healing process kicks into gear.

What’s not Normal

While some swelling is normal, too much can be a sign of complication. 

If you notice swelling that increases or persists beyond the first few days, and you also have redness, severe pain, or heat at the site, it could be an infection or other issues. 

Similarly, if the swelling spreads or you get a fever, consult your doctor. Watch out for these symptoms to make sure your recovery is on track.

How to Reduce Swelling After Thread Lift?

To keep your recovery on track, there are steps you can take to manage swelling, ease discomfort, and speed up your recovery.

Cool compresses and elevation

Wrap a few ice packs or a bag of frozen peas in a soft towel and gently press it on the swollen area for about 20 minutes every hour. Be careful not to apply ice directly to your skin, as this can cause irritation.

You can also elevate your head while you sleep. Use an extra pillow or two to keep your head lifted above your heart. This reduces the pooling of fluids in your face and neck, minimising swelling.

Medication and supplements

Before taking anything, proceed with caution. 

Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can help reduce swelling, but always check with your doctor first. Certain medications might be contraindicated based on your personal health profile.

Supplements such as bromelain and arnica have been known to help reduce swelling and bruising, but again, talk to your doctor before taking any.

Follow-up care

Book in your follow-up appointments to allow your cosmetic surgeon in Brisbane to monitor your healing progress — and react quickly if there are any concerns. 

Regular check-ins make sure that adjustments to your recovery plan are made as needed, helping to keep your recovery on track and swelling at bay.

4 reasons your swelling isn’t going away

Here are 4 unique factors that might be causing the swelling to stick aroundand how to reduce your downtime after a thread lift.

Insufficient post-care

The days following your thread lift are important for your recovery. Following your doctor’s instructions can minimise swelling and prevent problems.

Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping cold compress applications which can reduce swelling effectively
• Not resting enough, leading to increased swelling and discomfort
• Ignoring your doctor’s advice about sleep positioning, which can help decrease swelling

Dehydration and diet

What you eat plays a significant role in your healing process. Not hydrating enough and eating certain foods can make it worse. 

Instead, make sure you take these steps:

• Drink more water and caffeine-free fluids to help reduce swelling.
• Add anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, such as berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables.
• Don’t eat salt-heavy foods and avoid drinking alcohol, which can make swelling worse.

Physical activity levels

Getting some movement can help, but too much can be bad. 

Here are some tips:

• Avoid strenuous activities that can increase blood flow to the swollen areas and worsen your symptoms.
• Go on gentle walks or do light activities that can help reduce swelling by improving circulation.
• Consult with your doctor about when it’s safe to return to your workout/gym routine.

Medical factors

Sometimes, factors outside your control, like pre-existing medical conditions or certain medications, can affect your healing process. 

Consider the following: 

• Medications such as blood thinners or certain anti-inflammatory drugs might contribute to prolonged swelling.

• Conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can also slow down your recovery.
• Consult your doctor if you suspect your swelling is connected to other medical conditions. They can help you adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What to expect after your thread lift

While it’s typical to experience some immediate swelling and minor discomfort, most find they can return to their usual activities shortly after the procedure.

Take it easy during the first 24-48 hours and avoid any strenuous activities that might worsen the swelling. If your swelling remains severe or gets worse after several days, talk to your cosmetic physician. 

Remember, each person’s recovery process is unique. But knowing what’s normal can help you manage expectations and catch any problems early on.

Move forward with confidence

Taking care of yourself after your thread lift is key to a smooth recovery and amazing results. It’s important to take the recommended steps seriously, whether it’s applying cool compresses, keeping your head elevated, or sticking to follow-up appointments with your surgeon. 

Dr. Scott Allison understand that a smooth recovery is just as important as the thread lift procedure itself. That’s why we provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help achieve optimal results and minimise discomfort.

By following the aftercare instructions, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smooth journey and feeling fantastic soon. Just take things one step at a time, and you’ll be seeing those amazing changes in no time.