What Is a Thread Lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to lift and tighten skin on the face, neck and body. Also known as a suture lift, this treatment involves the insertion of thin, biodegradable threads beneath the skin using a blunt-tipped cannula. These threads are strategically placed and anchored to reposition the skin, resulting in a smoother and more lifted appearance.

Thread lifts have gained popularity in recent years as a less invasive alternative to traditional facelift surgery. While a surgical facelift remains the most comprehensive solution for significant skin sagging and deep facial creases, a thread lift can provide noticeable improvements with less downtime and fewer potential complications.

How Does a Thread Lift Work?

A thread lift works in two ways.

The first is fairly straightforward. During the procedure, your doctor uses a cannula to guide the threads through the skin and into the underlying tissues. Once they are in place, your doctor pulls the threads and secures them into place. This action pulls your skin taut, creating a more lifted look.

The second function of a thread lift is to stimulate collagen production. Once a thread is inserted, it triggers your body’s healing response. Even though the threads do not cause an injury, your body detects the suture material and increases collagen production in the area. This may lead to ongoing improvements in skin elasticity.

The threads are made of biocompatible materials that gradually dissolve, leaving behind no permanent foreign substances in the body. The newly formed collagen network in the area helps to maintain the lift and improvements in skin texture and firmness.

The OLA Experience

Consultation

A comprehensive consultation is the first step of your treatment. Your doctor will assess your facial structure and skin quality, discuss your aesthetic goals and determine if a thread lift is a suitable course of action for you. This session is an opportunity for you to express your expectations and for us to provide a clear, realistic picture of what the procedure can achieve.

If you decide to proceed with a thread lift, you will receive detailed pre-treatment instructions. These may include avoiding certain medications (such as blood thinners) or skincare products for a specified period before your procedure. You may also be advised to avoid smoking and minimise alcohol consumption to support the healing process.

After administering local anaesthetic, your doctor will insert the threads using a cannula, carefully guiding them into the appropriate layers of skin and soft tissue. Once the threads are in place, your doctor will anchor and trim them, leaving no visible signs of the treatment on the skin surface. The procedure can take 45 to 60 minutes.

What Is the Average Downtime and Recovery?

One of the main advantages of a thread lift compared to facelift surgery is the relatively short downtime and recovery period. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days of the procedure. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two, and ideally four, weeks.

After your thread lift, you may experience some swelling, bruising and tenderness in the treated areas. These side effects are normal and typically subside within a few days to a week. Your doctor may recommend applying cold compresses and taking over-the-counter pain medication to manage any discomfort.

It is important to note that while thread lifts have a shorter recovery time compared to surgery, individual experiences may vary. Some patients may require more time to fully heal and recover, depending on factors such as age, skin quality, lifestyle and the extent of the treatment.

What Results Can I Expect From My Thread Lift?

A thread lift can provide noticeable improvements in skin tightness and facial contouring. The treatment can also help to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

After a thread is inserted, you can see instant results because of the physical lifting effect. This effect begins to decrease around six to 12 months post-treatment as the sutures dissolve. However, there is a secondary effect through the collagen stimulation that may remain one to two years or more after the procedure.

A thread lift generally leaves no visible scars. Most patients experience only minimal puncture marks that heal quickly and are easily concealed with makeup. 

The results can last up to two years, making thread lifts a relatively long-lasting and cost-effective option for nonsurgical facial rejuvenation.