Abstract

Objectives: Facial aging typically involves both volume loss and expansion, leading to sagging and a bloated lower face. While thread lifting is commonly used to address this, its effects are often short-lived. To enhance and prolong results, the combination of thread lifting and a novel “fat-suction injection” technique is gaining popularity. This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of this approach, known as the Suction Lift, in treating facial sagging. Introduction: Between 2020 and 2023, the demand for aesthetic procedures in Japan tripled, particularly for minimally invasive treatments with minimal downtime. Facial contouring is now the second most popular procedure after blepharoplasty, and among these, the combination of thread lifting with liposuction—known as the “Suction Lift”—has gained significant attention. We developed a new liposuction technique called the “fat-suction injection,” which uses fine cannulas to minimize downtime. This method has since been widely adopted by many aesthetic surgeons in Japan. Materials / method: Ten cases of Suction Lift procedures performed between June and August 2024 were analyzed. Preoperative and six-month postoperative facial contours and volume changes were compared using 3D Vectra imaging. Overlay analysis was conducted to evaluate the precise differences in volume and contour. Results: Compared to thread lifting alone, combining thread lifting with liposuction improved lifting effects and resulted in more sustained contour changes over time. Conclusion: The addition of liposuction to thread lifting enhances the tissue contraction and re-adhesion effects typically achieved with thread lifts. Moreover, the volume reduction from liposuction—which may otherwise increase the risk of sagging—can be compensated by the lifting effect of threads, creating a synergistic outcome. This approach may be especially effective for patients with moderate to severe sagging who seek stronger and longer-lasting results. Additionally, we will present 3D imaging analysis of volume changes following thread lift alone.