Thread Lifts
Thread lifts are a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure that uses absorbable sutures (threads) inserted beneath the skin to lift, reposition, and tighten sagging facial or body tissue. They offer a non-surgical alternative to a facelift, providing visible lifting and contouring effects with significantly less downtime. Beyond the mechanical lift, the threads also stimulate the body's collagen production, delivering progressive skin improvement over months.
How Thread Lifts Work
Fine, biodegradable threads — most commonly made from PDO (polydioxanone), PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), or PCL (polycaprolactone) — are inserted under the skin using fine needles or cannulas. Barbed or cog threads have tiny projections that anchor to the soft tissue and, when pulled, physically reposition and lift the skin. Smooth or twisted threads stimulate collagen synthesis and skin tightening without a significant lift effect.
As the threads dissolve over 6–18 months (depending on the material), they leave behind a scaffolding of new collagen that maintains the improved contour and skin quality over time.
Types of Threads
PDO Cog Threads: Barbed threads for lifting jowls, midface, and brow. Dissolve over 6–8 months.
PDO Mono / Smooth Threads: Fine threads for skin tightening, texture improvement, and neck rejuvenation through collagen stimulation.
PLLA Threads: Stimulate stronger, longer-lasting collagen production. Effects persist for 12–18 months.
PCL Threads: Longest-lasting absorbable threads with extended collagen stimulation up to 24 months.
Concerns & Areas Treated
Jowl and jawline definition — lifting sagging lower face.
Midface and cheek lifting for volume repositioning.
Brow lifting for a refreshed, open-eyed appearance.
Neck tightening and platysmal bands.
Nasolabial fold softening.
Overall facial skin tightening and collagen stimulation.
The Treatment Process
1. Consultation & Planning
Facial assessment including skin laxity, volume distribution, and bone structure determines the appropriate thread type, number, and placement strategy for the desired outcome.
2. Treatment Session
Local anaesthetic is injected at entry points. Threads are introduced using fine cannulas or needles in a targeted pattern. The procedure takes 30–60 minutes depending on the number of threads and areas treated.
3. Recovery
Mild swelling, bruising, and dimpling at insertion points are common for 1–2 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid significant facial movements, chewing hard food, and sleeping on their face for 1–2 weeks post-procedure. Most patients return to social activities within 3–7 days.
Benefits of Thread Lifts
Immediate mechanical lift with progressive collagen stimulation benefits.
Minimally invasive — no surgical incisions or general anaesthesia required.
Shorter recovery time compared to surgical facelifts.
Natural-looking rejuvenation — repositions tissue rather than adding volume.
Can be combined with botox, fillers, and skin boosters for a complete aesthetic plan.
What to Expect
The lifting effect is visible immediately after the procedure, improving further over 4–8 weeks as swelling resolves and collagen builds. Results typically last 12–24 months depending on the thread type, number of threads used, and individual collagen response. Thread lifts work best in patients with mild to moderate skin laxity; significant sagging may require additional treatments or a surgical consultation.