What Are Thread Lifts and How Do They Work?
A thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses fine, absorbable sutures—known as facial lifting threads—to lift and tighten sagging skin. These threads, commonly made of PDO (polydioxanone) or PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), create a subtle lifting effect while stimulating natural collagen production for longer-lasting firmness.
Unlike a surgical facelift, a non-surgical thread lift requires no incisions or general anesthesia. Recovery is minimal, making it an ideal option for patients seeking skin rejuvenation without downtime or scars.
Common treatment areas
- Jawline and lower face
- Cheeks and nasolabial folds
- Eyebrows and forehead
- Neck and décolleté
- Abdomen and arms (for mild skin laxity)
Patients often choose this treatment to restore facial contours, define the jawline, and improve skin elasticity naturally.
Types of Facial Threads and Their Features
Not all threads are the same. The choice of material determines how long results last and how much collagen stimulation occurs.
- PDO threads: The most common and versatile option. They dissolve in about 6–12 months and are ideal for mild sagging.
- PLLA threads: Made from poly-L-lactic acid, they offer deeper collagen stimulation and last up to 18–24 months.
- PCL threads: The longest-lasting option, staying effective for up to 2–3 years while improving skin texture and elasticity.
Best thread type by aesthetic goal
- Subtle lift and skin tightening → PDO
- Volume restoration and firming → PLLA
- Long-term collagen boost → PCL
Combination treatments—such as adding hyaluronic acid fillers or platelet-rich plasma (PRP)—can enhance both lifting and skin regeneration effects.
Ideal Candidates for a Thread Lift
A thread lift is best suited for men and women between 30 and 60 years old who want to correct mild to moderate skin laxity.
Good candidates include those who:
- Prefer a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation.
- Maintain overall good skin tone and elasticity.
- Want to enhance natural facial contours without drastic changes.
Patients with very thin skin, excessive sagging, or significant sun damage may require complementary or alternative treatments for optimal results.
Procedure Overview: How Thread Lifts Are Performed
The thread lift procedure is performed in a medical office under local anesthesia and typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
Step-by-step process:
- The skin is cleansed and anesthetized.
- Threads are inserted using fine cannulas beneath the skin.
- The threads are gently pulled to lift the tissue and reposition it.
- Results are adjusted for symmetry and natural balance.
After treatment, patients can return to normal activities the same day, avoiding strenuous movements or facial pressure for 48 hours.
Results and Longevity of a Thread Lift
Most patients notice an instant lifting effect, but the real transformation develops gradually as collagen fibers form around the threads.
- Visible improvement: 2–4 weeks post-procedure.
- Peak effect: Around 3 months.
- Duration: 12–24 months depending on the thread material and individual factors.
Benefits and Advantages of Thread Lifts
- No surgery, incisions, or scarring.
- Minimal recovery time.
- Natural-looking lift with progressive improvement.
- Boosts collagen and skin firmness.
Unlike fillers or Botox, PDO threads work by mechanically lifting tissue and biologically restoring skin structure—a dual action that rejuvenates from within.
Risks, Side Effects, and Aftercare
Mild swelling, bruising, or tightness can appear after treatment, but these effects usually resolve within a few days.
Potential complications (if improperly performed):
- Minor asymmetry
- Thread visibility
- Localized infection
Aftercare tips:
- Avoid facial massages and strong expressions for one week.
- Sleep on your back for the first few nights.
- Stay away from saunas, intense exercise, and sun exposure for a few days.
- Keep the skin clean and hydrated; always use sunscreen.
How Thread Lifts Compare to Other Non-Surgical Treatments
A thread lift differs from dermal fillers or Botox in its mechanism: it physically lifts tissue rather than adding volume or relaxing muscles.
Best combinations:
- Thread lift + hyaluronic acid: enhances facial structure and hydration.
- Thread lift + PRP: accelerates skin healing and regeneration.
For younger patients, threads serve as a preventive anti-aging treatment; for mature skin, they restore firmness lost over time.
Before You Get a Thread Lift: Key Recommendations
- Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon or aesthetic physician.
- Ask about the type of thread (PDO, PLLA, or PCL) and its safety certification.
- Avoid non-medical environments offering “cheap” or unverified procedures.
- Review real patient photos and clinic credentials.
A properly performed thread lift should feel natural—no visible threads, lumps, or prolonged discomfort.
A thread lift is the perfect balance between medical innovation and natural rejuvenation. It delivers subtle yet powerful lifting results without surgery, downtime, or scars.
👉 Ready to find out which thread type suits you best? Schedule your consultation with the specialists at PLASTICA TIJUANA and experience personalized, science-backed rejuvenation designed for lasting confidence.