What Is a Thread Lift? How It Slims and Lifts the Face Without Surgery

If you’ve been wishing for a slimmer, more lifted face but don’t want to go through invasive surgery and long recovery times, there’s another effective solution. This minimally invasive technique, known as a Thread Lift, helps tighten and rejuvenate the face at a more affordable cost compared to traditional surgery.

But how exactly does a Thread Lift work? Is it really safer and better than surgical facelifts? And what results can you expect after the procedure? At We Clinic, we’re here to answer all your questions and clear away concerns about different types of thread lifts. If you want to reduce sagging skin, tighten the jawline, and look years younger instantly—this treatment might be the perfect option for you.

What Is a Thread Lift?

A Thread Lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to lift and tighten sagging facial skin. It works by inserting absorbable sutures with tiny barbs beneath the skin. These barbed threads anchor and gently pull the skin upward, improving firmness and restoring youthful contours.

Beyond the lifting effect, thread lifts also promote new blood vessel formation, which enhances circulation and gives the skin a healthier, more radiant glow. Additionally, the barbed sutures stimulate collagen production within the dermis, helping the skin become more elastic, smooth, and resilient over time.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Thread Lift?

Although a Thread Lift is one of today’s most popular cosmetic procedures, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are the individuals who are generally considered good candidates:

• Adults aged 20 and above with mild to moderate skin laxity. If the skin is severely sagging, a thread lift alone may not provide dramatic results and may need to be combined with other treatments.
• Those who want to achieve a slimmer, V-shaped facial contour without undergoing invasive surgery or long recovery times.
• Individuals with undefined jawlines, puffy cheeks, and visible jowls.
• People who want to restore facial volume, correct sunken cheeks, sagging skin, or deep nasolabial folds.

If you’re unsure whether a Thread Lift is right for you, our medical specialists at We Clinic can provide a professional consultation and customized assessment before treatment.

Which Areas Can a Thread Lift Treat?

A Thread Lift is not limited to facial rejuvenation; it can also be performed on several areas of the face and body to improve firmness and definition. Common treatment areas include:

• Eyebrows – to lift drooping brows and open up the eyes.
• Cheeks – to reduce sagging and restore youthful volume.
• Corners of the mouth – to correct downturned lips and create a fresher look.
• Neck – to reduce loose skin and improve jawline appearance.
• Upper arms – to tighten sagging skin.
• Thighs – to improve skin laxity and contour.
• Forehead – to lift and smooth the area for a younger look.

Types of Threads Used in a Thread Lift

There are several types of threads that doctors use to lift and tighten the skin. To help you understand better, here are the three most popular types of threads commonly used in a Thread Lift procedure:

Smooth Threads (PDO Threads)

Smooth PDO threads are short, fine threads usually less than 10 centimeters in length and do not have barbs. They are most commonly placed in delicate areas such as the neck, forehead, and under the eyes.

• Advantages: Smooth PDO threads help reduce fine lines caused by collagen loss and have a very low risk of allergic reaction.
• Disadvantages: Since they lack barbs, they cannot effectively lift or reposition sagging skin. As a result, they are less commonly used today compared to other thread types.

Screw Threads (Twisted PDO Threads)

Screw threads are a variation of PDO threads, created by twisting two smooth threads together into a spiral shape.

• Advantages: The spiral design provides stronger tension than smooth threads and helps restore volume in areas of skin depression or hollowness.
• Disadvantages: Screw threads are not ideal for lifting sagging skin and may cause more noticeable bruising after the procedure compared to other thread types

Barbed Threads (Cog Threads / Fishbone Threads)

Barbed threads, also known as cog threads or fishbone threads, are designed with tiny barbs along the thread surface. They come in two variations: thicker barbed threads and finer barbed threads.

• Advantages: Barbed threads act as a supportive structure beneath the skin, effectively lifting and repositioning sagging tissue. The barbs also stimulate collagen formation around both the thread and the anchoring points, making them highly effective for facial lifting. They are commonly used to achieve a slimmer V-shaped contour and to tighten the chin and nasolabial folds area.
• Disadvantages: Because barbed threads are inserted with sharp-tipped needles, individuals prone to bruising may experience temporary swelling or discoloration after treatment.

Which Thread Lift Is the Best?

The best Thread Lift is the one that addresses your unique concerns and matches your desired outcome. During consultation, a doctor will carefully analyze your facial structure to determine which thread type can deliver the most effective results. For example, if you want a slimmer V-shaped face, barbed threads (cog threads) are often recommended.

Equally important is the material of the threads. The three most commonly used options are:

1. PDO (Polydioxanone) – Soft, highly flexible, and not easily broken. PDO threads cause little to no irritation and typically last up to 1 year.
2. PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) – Firm threads that strongly stimulate collagen production. However, they are brittle and prone to breakage, making them less popular. The results usually last around 1 year.
3. PCL (Polycaprolactone) – A material that combines PLLA in an improved ratio, resulting in higher quality and greater durability. PCL threads can last up to 1.5 years.

Types of Needles Used in a Thread Lift

In a Thread Lift, four main types of needles are commonly used. Each type has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on the treatment area and the desired outcome:

Sharp Needle

The sharp needle was one of the first types used in Thread Lift procedures. It resembles a sharp surgical blade that cuts through tissue, which can cause significant swelling and pain. It is easier to insert and allows wounds to heal faster compared to a blunt cannula. However, if it punctures a major blood vessel, there is a risk of severe bleeding, and if it injures surrounding tissue, bruising may easily occur. Therefore, sharp needles should only be used by highly experienced doctors.

Blunt Needle

There are several types of blunt needles, such as the L-type and W-type. A blunt needle works like a dull blade that cuts through tissue by gently tearing it apart. This technique generally causes less swelling and less pain compared to other methods.

Cutting Needle

A cutting needle is a hybrid between sharp and blunt types. Its tip resembles a tube sharp, but not as pointed as a sharp needle.

L-Type Needle

The L-type needle is an advanced version developed from the cutting needle.

H2: How Does a Thread Lift Work?

If you’ve ever wondered how a Thread Lift can slim and lift the face, here’s how the process works: 

During the procedure, multiple fine threads are inserted under the skin to form a three-dimensional supportive network that adapts to your unique facial structure and targets specific problem areas. Once placed, the threads trigger a controlled inflammatory response beneath the skin, stimulating the formation of new blood vessels and activating fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen.

As a result, new collagen fibers form and wrap around the threads and their barbs. This collagen remodeling process lifts and tightens the skin, leaving the face firmer and more youthful. Additionally, it enhances blood circulation to the skin, improving overall skin vitality and radiance.

Is a Thread Lift Safe?

When performed at a certified clinic by an experienced doctor using FDA-approved threads suitable for your facial structure, a Thread Lift is considered a safe procedure. The threads used are biodegradable and naturally dissolve within 6–12 months, leaving no permanent residue in the body. With proper technique and high-quality materials, patients can enjoy the benefits of a Thread Lift without worrying about long-term risks.

Possible Side Effects After a Thread Lift

Side effects from a Thread Lift can generally be divided into two categories:

• Common side effects: These are normal reactions and usually resolve on their own within 7–14 days. They may include swelling, bruising, minor bleeding at the entry points, a feeling of tightness, or a mild awareness of the threads under the skin.
• Serious complications: These are rare but can occur if the procedure is performed at an uncertified clinic or if aftercare instructions are not followed. They include infection, thread extrusion, thread breakage, or tissue inflammation.

To minimize risks, it is essential to choose a reputable clinic that uses certified materials and to carefully follow your doctor’s post-treatment instructions.

How to Prepare Before a Thread Lift

Boost your confidence for your first Thread Lift by following the right preparation steps:

• Consult a qualified doctor – A thread lift must be performed by an experienced specialist at a certified clinic. At We Clinic, our doctors provide thorough consultations, analyzing your facial structure to identify concerns and create a safe, customized plan before treatment.
• Avoid certain activities – Refrain from drinking alcohol, doing high-intensity cardio, or using saunas in the days leading up to the procedure, as these activities can increase blood circulation.
• Stop certain medications – About 3–7 days before your thread lift, discontinue anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or certain supplements such as aspirin and high-dose vitamins. If you are on prescribed medication, always consult your doctor before making changes, as this helps minimize the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
• Consider combination treatments – For individuals with excess facial fat or volume, additional procedures such as fat-dissolving injections or mesofat treatments may be recommended first to maximize thread lift results.
• Complete dental work in advance – If you have a dental appointment, finish it before your thread lift, as you will need to avoid opening your mouth widely for about 4 weeks after the procedure.

The Thread Lift Procedure Step by Step

A Thread Lift typically takes about 1–2 hours, depending on individual needs. The process usually follows these steps:

1. Facial analysis – The doctor begins by evaluating your face, designing the lift, and determining the most suitable thread placement. Recommendations may also include additional treatments such as mesofat injections for those with excess cheek volume to achieve the desired V-shape.
2. Cleansing the skin – Your face will be thoroughly cleansed in the treatment area while you lie down comfortably.
3. Applying anesthesia – To minimize discomfort, a topical anesthetic is applied to the targeted areas for about 30–45 minutes. For patients with sensitive skin or allergies to topical anesthetics, cold compresses or local injections may be used instead.
4. Thread insertion – The doctor inserts absorbable threads beneath the skin, anchoring them to the tissue using a three-dimensional technique tailored to your facial structure. This provides support, corrects problem areas, and enhances contour. Patients usually do not feel pain—only a slight tightness during the procedure.
5. Trimming the threads – Once the threads are properly adjusted, the doctor trims the ends, ensuring no visible knots or thread tips remain. The entry points are then sealed.
6. Cold compress – After completion, a cold compress is applied immediately to reduce swelling, and patients are able to return home right away.

Aftercare Instructions for a Thread Lift

Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the best and longest-lasting results from your Thread Lift. Here are the essential guidelines to follow:

• Apply a cold compress to the treated area for the first 3 days to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Avoid touching, scratching, pressing, or massaging your face for 1–2 days.
• Keep the temple incision sites dry for 2 days and avoid water contact.
• Stay away from heat-related activities such as outdoor sports and saunas.
• Avoid wearing makeup or using skincare products for at least 24 hours.
• Do not undergo laser treatments or other heat-based aesthetic procedures for 1 month, as they may cause swelling, pain, or bruising.
• Refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking for 2 weeks.
• Take prescribed anti-inflammatory medication as directed by your doctor.
• Limit excessive facial movements for about 1 month, since the threads may still shift during this period.
• Avoid strong facial massages for 2 months.
• Refrain from intense exercise for 1–2 weeks, as sweat and strain may slow down the healing process.

Why Does Swelling Occur After a Thread Lift?

Swelling after a Thread Lift can happen for several reasons. The four most common causes include:

1. Bleeding or fluid retention – Minor bleeding under the skin or fluid buildup from inflammation can cause temporary swelling. This usually resolves naturally within 2–3 weeks.
2. Excess cheek volume – Patients with naturally full cheeks may experience prolonged swelling after thread insertion. It may take 2–3 months for the threads to settle. In such cases, doctors often recommend fat-dissolving injections (mesofat) beforehand to reduce volume and achieve better results.
3. Incorrect thread placement – If the threads are pulled in the wrong direction (for example, lifting the nasolabial folds instead of correcting sagging near the mouth corners), it can make the cheeks appear bulkier, leading to swelling. This highlights the importance of choosing an experienced doctor to ensure proper technique and avoid unwanted results.
4. Inflammation or infection – Normal swelling typically subsides within 1–2 weeks. However, if the face remains red and swollen after 4 days, it may indicate infection and requires immediate medical attention.

Why Do Thread Lift Results Sometimes Fade Quickly?

Some patients notice that the results of their Thread Lift last only a few months. Here are the main reasons why:

• Skin condition – If the skin has very low collagen levels, the barbs of the threads have less grip, causing the lift to last for a shorter time.
• Type of thread – Different threads provide support for varying durations. For example, barbed threads (cog threads) typically hold the skin for about 6–8 months. Choosing the right material is key to achieving longer-lasting results.
• Lifestyle factors – Daily habits, especially excessive facial movements or strong expressions, can accelerate thread loosening and shorten the overall effect. 

Where Is the Best Place to Get a Thread Lift?

No matter how much research you do or how many reviews you read, the most important factor is choosing a reliable clinic. A trustworthy clinic will always display its official 11-digit license number at the entrance, giving you confidence in its credibility.

Equally important is being treated by an experienced doctor who can carefully evaluate your face, analyze your facial structure, and select genuine, high-quality threads in the right quantity. The doctor’s technique in thread placement also plays a major role in achieving natural and long-lasting results.

In addition, the clinic should provide full consultation and proper aftercare support. With these standards in place, you can feel assured that your Thread Lift will be both safe and effective.

How Much Does a Thread Lift Cost?

The price of a Thread Lift for facial contouring does not vary significantly, but it depends on factors such as the material used to produce the threads, their size, type, elasticity, strength, and durability. For the most accurate estimate, it is always best to consult directly with the clinic.

If you would like to know the cost of a Thread Lift at We Clinic, feel free to contact us directly via facebook  or  Line

Frequently Asked Questions

H3: Does a Thread Lift Hurt?

Before the procedure, your doctor will apply or inject a local anesthetic. This means you may only feel slight discomfort during the injection. During the actual Thread Lift, most patients report only a mild tightening sensation, rather than pain.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from a Thread Lift?

In the first 3–4 days, it is normal to experience some swelling. Around 14 days after the procedure, the swelling begins to settle, and the results gradually become more visible. The face typically takes its full shape within 1–3 months. The overall duration of results depends mainly on the type of threads used.

Why Does the Face Look Uneven After a Thread Lift?

In the early period after a Thread Lift, some patients may notice that their face looks slightly uneven. This is usually due to the natural healing process: new collagen is being produced, the skin is tightening, and the threads are integrating with the tissue, which may not occur evenly on both sides at first. With time, the threads settle, and the face becomes more balanced.

Other possible causes include external factors such as inserting too few threads, lack of experience from the practitioner in adjusting facial symmetry, or improper techniques in determining thread direction and tension. Using low-quality threads can also result in brittleness or breakage, leading to unsatisfactory results.

How Many Days Does Swelling Last After a Thread Lift?

After a Thread Lift, it is common to experience mild swelling or bruising at the needle entry points. There is no need to worry, as this is considered normal. Taking anti-inflammatory medication for about 3 days or applying a cold compress for 1–2 days can help reduce these symptoms. The swelling usually subsides and the face settles within 14 days.

However, if you notice severe redness, persistent pain, or bruising that does not improve, it is important to return to your doctor promptly for evaluation and additional treatment if necessary.

Can You Get a Facial Massage After a Thread Lift?

After a Thread Lift, you should avoid facial massages, vigorous face washing, or excessive facial movements, especially in the treated areas. This is because the threads need about 4 weeks to fully integrate with the skin. If disturbed too early, the threads may shift, affecting the final result. For the best outcome, extra care is essential during the first month.

A Thread Lift is an excellent minimally invasive procedure for addressing common concerns such as sagging skin, loss of firmness, or an aging appearance—all without surgery and with immediate results. However, it is not suitable for everyone. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced doctor to determine if this treatment is the right choice for you.

At We Clinic, our specialists are here to evaluate your facial structure, provide personalized advice, and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Contact us directly through facebookor  Line to schedule a consultation.

 

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