Cosmetic treatments are more and more popular and with the cost of living increasing, there may be a temptation to chose a cheaper option. Visiting someone who does not have the correct training and qualifications, can lead to real issues and here are some that can occur.

Thread lifting is often used to improve droopy upper eyelids but they are fitted under the skin and some of the problems apart from infection result from a superficial thread which can cause puckering and may be seen or can cause an intermittent "jagged" feeling. Superficial threads may be corrected using a blunt canula to embed the thread deeper or, of course, removal.

A very deep thread can impair muscle movement and may be very painful. This needs to be removed as soon as possible. A hematoma results from a ruptured blood vessel during insertion of the thread. This can usually be resolved with care and proper management.

The most difficult complication can be the occurrence of a biofilm, which is where a collection of micro-organisms attach themselves to the surface of the thread and produce a sort of dome cover which, in turn, protects them from the bodies natural defences. This biofilm appears as redness, swelling or tenderness and does require professional treatment involving removal of the thread, washing out of the area and usually, a course of antibiotics.

This is not to say "don't" - just be very thorough about checking the qualifications of the practitioner.