You’ve likely heard of thread lifts, the non-surgical way to lift the skin, but you might not have heard of nose threads.

Although not a new procedure, it’s definitely become more popular recently. While some practitioners rave about the results, others avoid the procedure due to the risks. To give you the lowdown on nose thread lifts, we’ve called in the help of EV Expert, GP and award-winning Aesthetician Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, to answer all.

What are nose threads? 

In Dr El Muntasar's words, threads are “hair-like structures that are inserted under the skin to help lift” certain parts of the face. For the nose specifically, dissolvable threads are used to “lift the tip of the nose and straighten the bridge,” he explains.

It’s a popular procedure for those looking to straighten their nose, or as part of a youth-boosting tweakment, as the tip of our nose can begin to drop as we age. After a number of weeks, the threads begin to dissolve and the nose's original shape returns.

What’s the process of getting nose threads? 

Following a consultation, the practitioner will put you in a reclined position and inject some local anaesthetic to numb the area. A cannula is inserted into the tip of the nose where the threads (typically polydioxanone or PDO) are placed into position–the cannula is then removed and the threads stay put, giving a straighter, more lifted shape.

Results of nose threads depend from person to person. The threads start to slowly dissolve anywhere between three and six months, before completely dissolving between one to three years, typically the latter if you get the procedure redone after nine months. Studies suggest that results last longer on younger patients than older patients.

There is no downtime to the treatment hence it being dubbed as the lunchtime nose job, however, it’s advised to avoid strenuous activity and alcohol for a few weeks. You might experience a little swelling and bruising for up to 48 hours afterwards; your practitioner can guide you on specific aftercare.

What are the risks of nose threads? 

While the procedure is a quick and simple one, like any non surgical treatment there can be risks. Threads in general are quite a controversial topic, with some practitioners swearing by the results and others noting the results not to be worth the risk.

The nose is a notoriously risky place to work on. “Injecting the cannula and threads has the potential to cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves,” Dr El Muntasar explains; this could in rare cases, lead to neuropathy and nerve injury. The threads can also cause micro bumps under the skin, “to the naked eye, it might seem smooth but actually it’s got these teeny tiny little hooks on it, which can lead to scar tissue.”

In addition, PDO threads are “very, very difficult to reverse if something happens,” says Dr El Muntasar. “To get the threads out before they natually dissolve, you need to surgically cut them out, which can then cause further damage,” he adds.

One of the riskiest things with threads is when they’re being carried out by non-medics, says Dr El Muntasar. “If a complication then happens, the [practitioner] is completely oblivious as to what to do,” so seeing a medical professional is incredibly important. That’s why it’s wise to not be swayed by the casual nature of “non-invasive” messaging, which is referred to as being less-invasive than surgery; it doesn’t mean there aren’t risks. Although the incisions are small, there are lots of important blood vessels and arteries in the area.

Of course, it’s also important to note that most people undergo the procedure without any complications at all. Be sure to visit a practitioner who has vast experience with nose threads.

Alternatives to nose threads

If you’re looking to get similar results to nose threads but aren’t keen on the risks, there is an alternative. Dr El Muntasar recommends dermal fillers—also known as the liquid nose job—as a safer option. “The nose is one of the trickiest areas for dermal fillers,” he admits, but notes that “it’s still much safer if a complication happens as you can reverse it.” As always, just make sure you’re visiting a highly qualified practitioner such as the ones listed on Etre Vous.