Thread Lifts

Learn How to Choose an Expert Surgeon for Your Thread Lift

If you’ve been seeking a less invasive alternative to a surgical facelift, a minimally-invasive thread lift might be the ideal option for you. In the hands of a skilled facial cosmetic surgeon, thread lifts offer a subtle, natural-looking lift that can reduce sagging and enhance your facial contours. Nicknamed the “lunchtime lift,” this cosmetic procedure uses dissolvable threads to both instantly lift and promote collagen for a more youthful complexion.

What is a thread lift?

A thread lift, also known as facial threading, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and anchor sagging skin of the face and neck slightly higher. The procedure also promotes collagen production, which increases skin firmness over time. 


For the right patient, a thread lift can serve as an alternative to a surgical facelift with less downtime. However, the thread lift procedure should only be performed by a medical provider with both aesthetic and medical expertise who can help you decide if you are a good candidate for the procedure based on your anatomy, goals, and expectations.

Areas that a thread lift can treat

Thread lifts can treat a variety of areas, including the:



  • Midface and cheek area
  • Jawline and jowls
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Marionette lines
  • Neck


This treatment is ideal for patients with early signs of aging, such as jowls, loss of volume in the cheeks, and skin that is beginning to lose its elasticity. 

What are the threads composed of?

This procedure involves biodegradable PDO threads, which are sutures composed of polydioxanone, a long-chain polysaccharide similar to sugar. Sometimes the threads’ surface is textured with extremely tiny cones or barbs (composed of the same material) to help hold the skin in place.

How does a thread lift work?

The thread lift procedure usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour. Before the procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area and keep you comfortable. 


The surgeon will then create small entry points in strategic, hidden areas of the face or neck. PDO threads are inserted under the skin at these points using a thin cannula or needle, lifted into place, and then secured. Your provider will carefully lift the sagging skin and tissue and attach the threads to underlying tissues higher on the face. This provides an instant lifting effect.


The threads remain under the skin, and the entry points typically heal and become virtually invisible. Over time, these threads dissolve, but they leave behind a beneficial effect: increased collagen production in the treated area. Collagen is a protein responsible for keeping our skin firm and supple. As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, which can lead to sagging and wrinkles. So, by stimulating collagen production, a thread lift provides a long-lasting improvement.

Is a thread lift painful?

Most patients report minimal discomfort during the thread lift procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area, though some patients may experience a slight pulling sensation during the lift. Any discomfort following the procedure is generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your surgeon.

Good Candidates

Good candidates for thread lifts are typically individuals around their late 30s to early 50s with relatively good skin tone but some mild to moderate sagging in the face and neck. It is key to only undergo a thread lift if you are a good candidate, or you may be disappointed with the results; patients with more advanced signs of aging are often happier with a surgical facelift, which has much greater reshaping and lifting capabilities.


If you are interested in a thread lift, consult with an experienced, board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon. They will assess your skin condition, discuss your aesthetic goals, and advise if a thread lift is the most suitable procedure for you.

Side effects and downtime

Though a thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure, it still carries possible side effects like any cosmetic treatment. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve within a few days to a week, and they may include minor swelling and bruising. In rare cases, there is a risk of infection at the needle entry points. 


Most patients can return to their normal activities within a couple of days.

Restrictions after a thread lift

After a thread lift, patients are typically advised to avoid sleeping on their face or putting pressure on the treated areas for the first week or so. Sleeping with your head elevated on pillows can help minimize swelling and ensure that the threads remain in their proper position as they begin to integrate with the surrounding tissues. This position can also aid in reducing any potential discomfort and promote optimal healing.


Your surgeon will likely provide you with specific guidelines tailored to your individual procedure, including sleeping positions that will best support your recovery. Follow these instructions closely, as adhering to post-procedure care guidelines can significantly impact the success and longevity of your thread lift results. If you have any questions or concerns about your post-procedure care, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon or their medical team, as they will have the best understanding of your unique situation and needs.

When will I see results?

Immediately after the procedure, you’ll notice a subtle lifting effect in the treated areas. However, full results develop over the following weeks and months as your body’s natural collagen production increases. This provides gradual and natural-looking rejuvenation of your face.


Keep in mind that while a thread lift offers noticeable results, it doesn’t provide the same level of lift as a surgical facelift. It is best suited for people looking for a more subtle improvement rather than a dramatic transformation.

Why choose a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon for a thread lift?

If you are ready to explore your thread lift options, find a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon certified by The American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS), or a provider who works under the purview of one, to schedule a consultation. While a thread lift is not considered surgical, it requires both a skilled, aesthetic eye and safe, sterile practices to give you excellent results. The ABFCS carefully screens all of our members for safety, aesthetic mastery, and many other qualifications before certifying them.