What is it?
Thread lifting involves the insertion of fine suspension threads beneath the skin to tighten and lift sagging tissues of the face or body. They provide an immediate lifting effect while stimulating natural collagen production, resulting in a long-lasting and natural outcome.
Types of Threads
PDO Threads (Polydioxanone)
- Made from a resorbable and biocompatible material long used in cardiac surgery.
- Some are smooth (for collagen stimulation), while others are barbed (for a light lifting effect).
- Main effect: boosts collagen production and improves skin texture.
- Duration of results: approximately 6 to 12 months.
Barbed or Coned Lifting Threads (PLLA or PCL)
- Thicker threads equipped with tiny barbs or cones that anchor into the tissues to create a true lifting effect.
- Made of PLLA (Poly-L-lactic Acid) or PCL (Polycaprolactone), which dissolve more slowly.
- Dual effect:
- Immediate mechanical lifting
- Gradual collagen stimulation
- Duration of results: around 12 to 24 months, depending on the thread type and treated area.
Treatment Areas
Face:
- Jawline / facial contour
- Cheekbones
- Nasolabial folds
- Jowls
- Eyebrows (brow lift)
- Neck
Body:
- Inner arms
- Buttocks (mild lift)
- Knees
- Abdomen (mild skin laxity)
Ideal Conditions for Treatment
- Mild to moderate skin sagging (otherwise surgery may be more suitable)
- Thin to medium skin thickness
- Typically suitable for patients aged between 35 and 60
- No active skin disease or significant laxity
- Healthy lifestyle and minimal smoking habits
Why Choose This Treatment?
- To redefine facial contours without surgery
- To firm and lift sagging skin
- To stimulate collagen and slow down skin aging
- To delay or avoid surgical lifting procedures
- To achieve natural results without scars
When It’s Not Recommended
- Significant sagging → surgical facelift more appropriate
- Unrealistic expectations (results are moderate, not a complete transformation)
- Very thin or very heavy skin → risk of irregularities or ineffective lift
- Emotionally or psychologically unprepared patients
Contraindications
- Local infection or inflammation
- Active autoimmune diseases
- Blood clotting disorders
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Known allergy to the thread material (rare)
- History of cysts or abscesses in the treatment area
- Recent hyaluronic acid injection in the same area (wait several weeks)
Aftercare / Post-procedure
Possible side effects:
- Mild swelling, bruising, or tightness for a few days
- Sensation of tension around the anchoring points
- Results visible immediately, optimal after 3 to 6 weeks
Recommendations:
- Avoid sports and facial massages for 7 to 10 days
- Avoid exaggerated facial expressions for 48 hours
- Sleep on your back for the first few days
- Apply arnica or healing cream if needed
- Follow-up check at 2 weeks, then at 3 months
Thread lifting offers a minimally invasive way to rejuvenate and lift the face or body, stimulating natural collagen and providing a fresher, younger appearance without surgery or scars. It is an excellent option for patients seeking subtle yet noticeable improvements in firmness and contour.