What Is Thread Lifting?
Thread lifting is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedure in which sagging skin and underlying tissues are lifted using special biocompatible threads. These threads are inserted under the skin and gently pulled to achieve a firmer, more youthful look.
The threads are typically made of PDO (polydioxanone), PLA (poly-L-lactic acid), or PCL (polycaprolactone)—all absorbable materials that also stimulate collagen production during the healing process.
How Is It Performed?
The thread lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 30–60 minutes. The steps include:
1. Evaluation and Planning
The patient’s facial structure is assessed and the insertion points for the threads are carefully planned.
2. Local Anesthesia
Anesthetic is applied to areas where the threads will be inserted.
3. Thread Insertion
Threads are placed under the skin using fine needles or cannulas. Barbed (cog) threads are used to lift and anchor the tissue.
4. Lifting and Shaping
After insertion, the skin is manually lifted and shaped, and the threads are secured in place.
Where Can Thread Lifting Be Applied?
It is not limited to the face—thread lifting can also be used on various parts of the body.
Facial Applications
- Sagging cheeks
- Jawline (jowl) contouring
- Softening nasolabial folds
- Eyebrow lift
- Neck tightening
Body Applications
- Inner arm sagging
- Mild breast ptosis
- Buttock lifting
- Abdominal tightening
Who Is a Good Candidate for Thread Lifting?
This procedure is most suitable for individuals between 30 and 55 years of age who do not want surgery and have not lost too much skin elasticity.
Ideal Candidates:
- Those with mild to moderate facial sagging
- Patients who lost skin firmness after weight loss
- People looking for facelift-like effects without surgery
- Anyone wanting more defined facial contours
Not Suitable For:
- Severe skin laxity
- Active skin infections
- Autoimmune disorders (requires individual evaluation)
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
What Are the Advantages?
- Non-surgical and suture-free
- Minimal downtime, with same-day return to social life in most cases
- Natural-looking lifting effect
- Boosts collagen production over time
- Effective results in a single session
- Can be combined with other treatments (fillers, botox)
Recovery and Aftercare
- Minor swelling, bruising, or tightness may occur
- Avoid intense facial movements and exercise for 5–7 days
- Results settle within 1–2 weeks
- Lifting effect typically lasts 12–18 months
Is Thread Lifting Safe?
Yes. When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, thread lifting is considered a safe and effective procedure. The threads used are CE- and FDA-approved and fully biodegradable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Local anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Some tenderness may be experienced afterward.
The threads are absorbed over time, but collagen production helps maintain the lifting effect for about 12–18 months.
No. The entry points are very small and usually invisible after a few days.
No. If placed at the correct depth, the threads are neither visible nor palpable.
Yes. Combination treatments can enhance the results and extend their duration.
