TESSLIFT (TESSLIFT)

What is TESSLIFT?

TESSLIFT is a non-surgical lift-up treatment that inserts absorbable threads with a special 3D mesh structure and barbs (reversed spines) into the subdermis. It physically lifts sagging tissue while simultaneously promoting collagen production to restore skin elasticity. Since it requires no incisions or general anesthesia and is completed under local anesthesia, rapid recovery to daily activities is a key characteristic.

TESSLIFT threads are designed with a three-dimensional mesh structure based on polydioxanone (PDO) bioabsorbable material, providing significantly greater contact surface area with skin and subcutaneous tissue compared to conventional monofilament threads. The barbs (fine spines) anchor into tissue to produce an immediate lift-up effect, and as the threads are gradually absorbed, fibroblasts are activated, promoting the production of new collagen and elastin.

Scientific Evidence

Face lifting using barbed absorbable threads has over 30 years of clinical history. A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2020) reported that in midface lift using PDO cog threads (64 subjects, average procedure time 15 minutes), patient satisfaction at one month post-operation was 4.7 out of 5 points, with sustained high satisfaction confirmed over the 6-month post-operative period (doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000002920). Additionally, a review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2024) demonstrates that high-quality absorbable cog threads exhibit sustained lift-up effects, with development extending beyond PDO to other materials (doi:10.2147/CCID.S457352).

An anatomical study of lateral face thread lift with temporal anchoring published in Skin Research and Technology (2024) reports that anchoring to the deep temporal fascia provides strong fixation and enables more sustained lift-up effects (doi:10.1111/srt.13587). Furthermore, a review in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery (2021) demonstrates that the combination of thread lift with absorbable threads, botulinum toxin, and hyaluronic acid fillers provides more natural and longer-lasting rejuvenation effects, with synergistic benefits also expected from combination treatments (doi:10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_119_20).

Procedure Flow

During consultation, we confirm the degree of sagging and desired level of lift-up, then design the number and route of thread insertion. On the day of treatment, the insertion site is cleansed and local anesthesia is administered. Using a specialized ultrafine cannula or needle, 3D mesh barbed threads are inserted into the subdermis to lift sagging tissue. Procedure time varies depending on the number of insertions, but typically 30-60 minutes for both sides is the guideline. In many cases, the lift-up effect can be felt immediately after the procedure, and strong pain rarely persists after the anesthesia wears off.

Downtime and Precautions

Post-operative swelling, bruising, and tightness may occur at the insertion site. In most cases these settle within 1-2 weeks, though skin dimpling or contour irregularities may rarely occur. A complication analysis of 190 cases reported in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open (2021) identified skin dimpling (40.5%), contour irregularity (16.8%), and thread visibility (16.3%) as major complications, with experienced surgeons reducing complication risks (doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000003820). After the procedure, avoid intense exercise, saunas, and alcohol for approximately one week, and avoid facial massage for 2-4 weeks post-operatively.

Combination with Other Treatments

While TESSLIFT delivers significant results on its own, combining it with hyaluronic acid injection, botulinum toxin treatment, or HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) allows simultaneous lift-up, volume correction, and facial muscle adjustment, providing more natural and three-dimensional rejuvenation effects. Your attending physician will comprehensively evaluate your facial condition and propose the optimal combination.