column (e.g. in newspaper)
2025.10.05
The Difference Between Vertical Lifts and Other Thread Lifts
As an Assistant Professor, Associate Ward Director, and Chief of Dermatopathology at the university hospital dermatology department, I deepened my expertise through academic presentations and paper publications both domestically and internationally. I have handled a wide range of treatments, from birthmark therapy in children to adult pigmentation concerns, utilizing various lasers and injection therapies, while also contributing to community healthcare. Through encountering numerous cases, I strongly felt the potential and necessity of aesthetic medicine, resolving to pursue further expertise. Building upon my solid dermatological knowledge and meticulous diagnostic skills, I value treatments that gently support each individual's skin while bringing out its inherent beauty.
Have you heard of vertical lifts?
I am Dr. Aya Hayama, a board-certified dermatologist.
In recent years, there are various types of thread lifts available, and there are many designs to choose from.
Among them, Dr. Shibasaki of Pono Clinic performsVertical Liftdoes not merely lift the skin vertically,Reposition the top of the sagging cheeks (mid-cheek) to their ideal positionThis design employs a more three-dimensional lifting technique aimed at achieving a more youthful appearance.
I also learned this method from Dr. Shiba at Pono Clinic and now practice it at our clinic!
With aging, fat and supporting tissues in the central cheek area shift downward, causing the midface to appear flatter and altering the position of the cheekbones. This change is a major cause of deepening nasolabial folds and marionette lines, as well as a more tired appearance.
Conventional thread lifts often lift sagging tissue outward or diagonally upward, making them effective for defining the jawline but less capable of restoring the cheeks' natural contour.
Therefore, many often resorted to hyaluronic acid injections to compensate, but this Vertical Lift focuses directly on sagging cheeks themselves, lifting and repositioning the midface where the center of gravity has dropped.
Specifically, by adjusting the depth of thread insertion and consciously supporting the SMAS layer and ligaments, we naturally restore lost cheek height. As a result, not only is sagging improved, but volume is added to the central facial area, creating a youthful and three-dimensional impression.
With this technique, the primary lifting axis is upward rather than outward, preventing the so-called “pulled-outward face” and allowing for more natural facial expression movement. As the cheek position rises, drooping corners of the mouth and deep nasolabial folds are naturally softened, resulting in an overall more youthful appearance.
Even with thread lifts, the final result varies greatly depending on the design. This vertical lift doesn't simply pull sagging tissue upward;Restore the facial center of gravity that has shifted due to aging to its original positionThis treatment is intended to achieve that purpose.
I believe combining this treatment with a standard thread lift will yield better results, so please allow me to explain further.
