Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure that uses absorbable threads placed under the skin to provide selected lifting or support effects. It is sometimes considered for mild facial laxity or contour concerns.
Thread lifting is not the same as a surgical face lift. It cannot remove significant loose skin or reposition deeper tissues to the same degree as surgery.
Careful patient selection is important. The procedure may be unsuitable when laxity is advanced, expectations are unrealistic or tissue quality is not favourable.
This page provides general information and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. Suitability, risks, recovery and outcomes vary between individuals.
Who may be suitable?
Thread lifting may be considered for selected patients with mild soft-tissue descent who want a limited, non-surgical approach and understand the limitations. It is not a substitute for face and neck lift surgery when laxity is significant.
Consultation and planning
Assessment includes facial anatomy, skin thickness, tissue heaviness, asymmetry, previous fillers or procedures and the patient’s goals. A safe plan considers thread type, vector, entry points and potential alternatives.
Some patients are better treated with skin-quality procedures, injectables, surgery or no procedure.
How thread lifting is performed
Threads are inserted under local anaesthesia or other anaesthetic arrangements depending on the plan. They are positioned to create selected support or lifting vectors.
The degree of visible change is usually more limited than surgery. Overcorrection, dimpling or asymmetry may occur early and requires follow-up.
Recovery after thread lifting
Bruising, swelling, tenderness, tightness, dimpling or irregularity can occur after treatment. Patients may be advised to avoid vigorous facial massage, dental procedures, heavy exercise or wide mouth opening for a period of time.
The timeline varies depending on thread type, number of threads and individual healing.
Risks and limitations
Risks include bruising, swelling, infection, thread visibility, dimpling, asymmetry, discomfort, thread extrusion, nerve irritation, unsatisfactory result and need for removal or further treatment. Effects are not permanent and outcomes vary.
FAQs
Is thread lifting a replacement for a face lift?
No. Thread lifting may help selected mild concerns, but it cannot reproduce the deeper tissue repositioning and skin redraping of surgery.
How long does a thread lift last?
Duration varies depending on thread type, tissue quality, facial movement and ageing. It should not be viewed as permanent.
Can thread lifting be combined with other treatments?
Sometimes, but sequencing and safety need to be planned carefully, especially if fillers, lasers or surgery are also being considered.
Related pages
Enquire about assessment
If you would like to discuss whether this procedure or treatment area is relevant to your situation, please submit an enquiry. A formal consultation is needed before any personalised advice can be given.