Over time, the skin loses collagen and firmness, and the face begins to show signs of sagging. Barbed threads, also known as traction threads, are a modern and safe solution to redefine facial contours, lift tissues, and stimulate collagen without resorting to surgery.
At OnlySmile in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel, Azores), we apply barbed threads with specialized medical technique, ensuring natural, progressive, and harmonious results, tailored to each facial anatomy.
The Essentials
- Barbed threads have small projections (“barbs”) that anchor the skin, allowing for controlled lifting and traction of tissues.
- They are made of biocompatible and absorbable materials (PDO, PLLA, or PCL).
- They produce an immediate lifting effect and long-term collagen stimulation.
- Minimally invasive treatment, without cuts or scars.
- At OnlySmile, the threads are applied in a personalized manner, respecting the shape and expressiveness of the face.
Index
- What are barbed threads
- How barbed threads work
- Most commonly used materials and types
- Main indications
- Most treated areas with barbed threads
- Step-by-step procedure
- Results and duration of effect
- Pre- and post-treatment care
- Combination with other facial harmonization treatments
- Barbed threads in Ponta Delgada — OnlySmile approach
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are barbed threads
Barbed threads are support threads with small “hooks” or “barbs” along their length.
These microstructures allow anchoring the skin and gently pulling it, correcting sagging and redefining facial contours.
They are one of the most effective techniques for non-surgical lifting, ideal for those who want to rejuvenate without altering facial expression or resorting to a scalpel.
2. How do barbed threads work
The action of barbed threads is twofold:
- Immediate mechanical effect: the barbs attach to the tissue, allowing repositioning and lifting of the areas that have sagged.
- Long-lasting biological effect: the body recognizes the thread material and initiates natural collagen production, enhancing skin firmness.
The result is a subtle yet visible lifting that remains stable for months and continues to improve as collagen forms.
3. Most commonly used materials and types
Barbed threads are made from biocompatible and absorbable materials, such as:
- PDO (Polydioxanone): absorbed in 6 to 8 months, with immediate tightening effect.
- PLLA (Polylactic Acid): stimulates type I collagen, with progressive and long-lasting results.
- PCL (Polycaprolactone): more stable, with prolonged effect up to 24 months.
Each type is chosen according to the degree of sagging, area to be treated, and patient’s age.
At OnlySmile, the dentist evaluates and plans the ideal technique for each case.
4. Main indications
Barbed threads are indicated for:
- Mild to moderate facial sagging.
- Loss of contour in the jawline.
- Drooping eyebrows or cheekbones.
- Thin or aged skin.
- Prevention of aging in young skin.
They are especially effective for people who do not want surgery but wish to rejuvenate visibly and naturally.
5. Most treated areas with barbed threads
The most treated areas include:
- Cheeks — repositioning and firmness.
- Jawline and chin — contour redefinition.
- Eyebrows — gentle lift and eye-opening.
- Neck — reduction of sagging and improvement of skin texture.
- Décolleté — firmness and skin rejuvenation.
Each area is treated with personalized vector technique, ensuring symmetry and naturalness.
6. Step-by-step procedure
- Personalized facial assessment and definition of traction vectors.
- Asepsis and local anesthesia for total comfort.
- Insertion of barbed threads through fine microcannulas.
- Controlled tension to reposition tissues.
- Symmetry check and aesthetic finishing.
- Post-treatment instructions and follow-up appointment.
The procedure takes about 45 to 60 minutes and is minimally invasive, allowing you to resume your routine the same day.
7. Results and duration of effect
The lifting effect is immediate, with continuous improvement in the following weeks.
In the 3 months after treatment, collagen production is at its peak, consolidating the result.
The average duration varies between 12 and 24 months, depending on the thread material and the patient’s metabolism.
Rejuvenation is natural and progressive, maintaining facial harmony without artificial volumes.
8. Pre- and post-treatment care
Before:
- Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatories 48 hours prior.
- Do not apply makeup on the day of the session.
- Avoid intense sun exposure.
After:
- Avoid wide movements (yawning, intense laughing) for 48 hours.
- Do not undergo massages or dental treatments for a week.
- Sleep on your back for the first few nights.
- Apply cold compresses if there is slight swelling.
These precautions ensure comfort and optimized results.
9. Combination with other facial harmonization treatments
Barbed threads are often combined with:
- Biostimulators — prolong collagen production and enhance firmness.
- Hyaluronic acid — restores volume and hydration.
- Botulinum toxin — smooths dynamic wrinkles.
- Facial mesotherapy — nourishes the skin and enhances radiance.
This combination allows rejuvenating the face in multiple layers, always respecting natural expression.
10. Barbed threads in Ponta Delgada — OnlySmile approach
At OnlySmile, we treat each face as unique.
The application of barbed threads is done with precise vector planning, certified products, and experienced medical hands.
The goal is not to transform — it is to redefine, lift, and balance.
The result is a subtle and elegant lifting that enhances firmness and highlights the best of natural expression.
For those living in the Azores who desire real rejuvenation, without surgery and with lasting results, this is a safe and effective choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Does the barbed thread treatment hurt?
No. It is performed with local anesthesia and minimal discomfort.
2) When are the results noticeable?
The lifting is immediate, but the final result appears after 4 to 6 weeks.
3) How long do the threads last?
Between 12 and 24 months, depending on the material and individual metabolism.
4) Are the threads visible under the skin?
No. They are completely invisible and naturally reabsorb.
5) Are there risks of asymmetry?
The OnlySmile technique ensures precise and symmetrical vectors.
6) Can it be done at any age?
It is recommended from the age of 30, in cases of mild to moderate sagging.
7) Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes, especially with biostimulators and botulinum toxin.
8) Is there recovery time?
Returning to routine is immediate; just avoid exertion in the first 48 hours.
9) Is the effect natural?
Yes. The goal is to lift gently, without altering facial expression.
10) Where to get barbed threads in the Azores?
At OnlySmile in Ponta Delgada, with certified medical technique and total safety.
Protocolos & Parcerias
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Associação Agrícola De São Miguel • Grupo Bensaude • Camara Municipal De Ponta Delgada • Grupo Finançor • Montepio Geral – Associação Mutualista • Grupo Sata • Grupo EDA • Cooperativa Agrícola Do Norte • ACP Automóvel Club De Portugal • Açorlider Tabacaria • ALZA • Associação Humanitária Dos Bombeiros Voluntários De Ponta Delgada • Associação Sindical Dos Profissionais De Polícia • Azores Padel Club • Azoróptica • Camara Municipal Da Lagoa • Cartão Do Idoso – Município De Ponta Delgada • Coliseu Micaelense • Clube De Atividade Física Dos Bombeiros De Ponta Delgada • Clube Naval De Ponta Delgada • Fundação Inatel • Grupo Ilha Verde • Grupo Lince Hotels • Grupo R – Construções • José Cymbron • Liga Dos Combatentes • Ordem Dos Advogados • Ordem Dos Enfermeiros • Ordem Engenheiros Região Açores • Portos Dos Açores • Prolacto • Servicater • Serviços Municipalizados De Ponta Delgada • Sindescom • Sindicado Dos Enfermeiros • Sindicato Democrático Dos Açores • Sindicato Profesores Região Autónoma Dos Açores • Sintap • Unipelago
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If you are looking for barbed thread treatment in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (Azores), the best decision starts with personalized assessment, transparent explanation, and continuous medical follow-up. At OnlySmile, we work with clinical rigor, precise technique, and focus on naturalness — because rejuvenating is about feeling good in your own face again.
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