Parotid gland injury caused by facial thread lifting: a case report

Facial thread lifting has become an increasingly popular, minimally invasive approach to facial rejuvenation. Despite being less invasive than conventional incisional lifting surgery, it can cause immediate or delayed complications, including rare but severe adverse events such as parotid gland or duct injury. A 51-year-old man presented with painful swelling of the right cheek immediately after undergoing facial thread lifting. Laboratory testing revealed a markedly elevated serum amylase level. Ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography demonstrated parotid gland injury and inflammation caused by thread penetration. Treatment with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, compression, and pain control resulted in marked improvement. This case emphasizes the importance of understanding facial anatomy, recognizing intraoperative warning signs, and using ultrasonography to prevent and evaluate complications of thread lifting.