Investigation on the Cutaneous Change Induced by Face-Lifting Monodirectional Barbed Polydioxanone Thread

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dermatology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Barbed threads are utilized in face-lifting for enhanced mechanical grip on tissues.
• The long-term efficacy and tissue response to barbed threads remain under investigation.
• Limited data exists on the histological and molecular alterations following barbed thread implantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the histological and molecular changes induced by absorbable, barbed polydioxanone threads.
• To assess the tissue integration and biological response to barbed threads in an animal model.

Main Methods:

• Barbed polydioxanone thread fragments were implanted in guinea pig dorsal skin.
• Tissue samples were collected at 1, 3, and 7 months post-implantation.
• Histopathological examination and quantification of Type 1 collagen and TGF-β1 were performed.

Main Results:

• Thread implantation resulted in the formation of a fibrous capsule.
• Peak tissue reaction, characterized by inflammatory cell and fibroblast infiltration, occurred at 1 month and subsequently diminished.
• Type 1 collagen and TGF-β1 levels were significantly elevated throughout the 7-month study period compared to control skin.

Conclusions:

• Barbed thread implantation promotes robust anchorage within skin tissue.
• Elevated collagen and TGF-β1 levels indicate sustained tissue integration and support the thread's long-term durability.
• These findings suggest promising potential for barbed threads in clinical skin rejuvenation applications.