Periorbital Rejuvenation: A Study on the Use of Dermal Threads as Monotherapy, with a Review of Literature

The periorbital region, a major impressionable area holds a special place in aging of the face. It reflects chronological aging which are reflected not only as structural changes but also emotive expressions of sadness and tiredness. Dermal threads have been used in combination with other aesthetic procedures, however their use as monotherapy especially in periorbital region needs evaluation. AIM: To evaluate the improvement in wrinkling and skin texture in the infero-lateral periorbital region with monofilament dermal threads. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A prospective observational study in a tertiary hospital was conducted between January 2019 and February 2020 after institutional ethical clearance and patient consent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 25 adults between 40 and 65 years of age reporting for infero-lateral periorbital rejuvenation and opting for dermal threads, with no history of aesthetic treatment in this region for the past three months were included after their informed consent. 10 monofilament dermal threads (5 each in lateral and infraorbital) in either periorbital region were inserted. Cases were assessed with Lemperle’s wrinkle scale and visual analog scale (VAS) and photographic record maintained before procedure and after 16 weeks of procedure. Change in wrinkle grade was analysed using paired t-test and VAS was used to assess patient’s perception of the result. RESULTS: 25 cases were included in the study, 21 completed the follow-up and 4 were lost to follow up. The mean preprocedure wrinkle score was 2.29 and postprocedure mean scores were 1. This finding was statistically significant. 16 cases were satisfied with their textural improvement (VAS >+2) while 4 reported mild improvement (VAS 2+) and 1 reported no improvement. Side effects observed were bruising in two cases and thread displacement in one case within 24 hours. CONCLUSIONS: Polydioxanone monothreads offer an alternative aesthetic procedure for periorbital rejuvenation.