Thread lift
A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure that moderately tightens areas of the face with mild to moderate sagging, although its effects are significantly limited.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
The desire for a more youthful appearance without the risks and lengthy recovery time associated with a surgical facelift has driven the development of minimally invasive procedures. One of the most popular methods in this field is the thread lift. It can provide a moderate tightening effect on slightly to moderately sagging areas of the face, but its results are significantly more limited compared to a surgical facelift.
But what exactly happens beneath the skin during the procedure, what different types of threads are there, and how realistic are the results? In this glossary entry, we examine thread lifts in detail and objectively, with a clear focus on the safety aspects and the limitations of the procedure.
Definition: What is a thread lift?
The Thread lift (English: Thread Lift) is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to tighten the skin and lift sagging areas of the face.
In this procedure, special, biocompatible and self-dissolving (resorbable) sutures are inserted into the subcutaneous fatty tissue using a needle or cannula. These threads provide the tissue with new support, either by anchoring (using barbs) or by forming a supportive collagen network.
The dual effect: mechanical lift & biostimulation
The effect of a thread lift is based on two different mechanisms that take effect at different times:
| Immediate mechanical lifting effect | Long-term biological effect |
|---|---|
Mechanical anchoring:
| Biostimulation (sustainable):
|
PDO, PLLA & PCL: A comparison of the different suture materials
The threads used are made from materials that have been recognised as surgical suture materials for decades. They differ in terms of their structure, absorption rate and the intensity of collagen stimulation.
| Material | PDO (polydioxanone) | PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) | PCL (polycaprolactone) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dissolution time | approx. 6–8 months | approx. 12–18 months | approx. 18–24 months |
| Collagen stimulation | Good | Pronounced | Pronounced |
| Features | Highly reliable and tried and tested: the „standard thread“ | Longer-lasting, increased collagen production | Longest shelf life, strongest biostimulation |
| Ideal for | Beginners, fine lines, general firming | More pronounced firming, volume enhancement | Long-lasting results for moderate sagging |
What does a treatment session involve?
- Consultancy & Planning The doctor examines the face, discusses the patient’s wishes and marks out the exact paths (vectors) for the threads.
- Local anaesthesia The entry and exit points of the threads are numbed locally with a small injection, so the treatment itself is virtually painless.
- Inserting the threads The doctor inserts a special hollow needle or cannula, containing the thread, along the marked line through the subcutaneous fatty tissue.
- Positioning As soon as the needle reaches its destination, it is withdrawn and the thread remains anchored in the tissue. With tension sutures, the tissue is lifted into its new position by gently pulling on the thread.
- Conclusion The ends of the threads are cut off under the skin. The tiny puncture marks usually heal without leaving any scars. A session lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the extent of the treatment.
Areas of application and limitations of the method
Areas of application and limitations of the method
A thread lift is best suited for treating early to moderate sagging of the skin.
Typical areas of application:
- Lifting the cheeks
- Definition of the jawline
- Reducing puppet-like behaviour and Nasolabial folds
- Eyebrow lift
- Neck lifting
Limitations of thread lifts:
In cases of significant excess skin, very thin skin or a pronounced „turkey neck“, a thread lift may not produce satisfactory results.
In such cases, a surgical facelift is often the only sensible option.
Risks & Complications: When sutures cause problems
Although it is a minimally invasive procedure, a thread lift is a medical procedure that requires in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy and carries serious risks.
Potential risks and complications
- Common side effects: Swelling, bruising, mild pain and a feeling of tightness are normal during the first few days.
- Asymmetries: If the threads are positioned unevenly on either side of the face, or if the tissue reacts differently.
- Visible or noticeable threads: If placed too close to the surface, particularly in very slim patients with thin skin.
- Skin dimpling: Indentations in the skin at the points where the threads are anchored.
- Infections: As with any procedure that breaks through the skin barrier, there is a risk of infection.
- Thread migration or breakage: In rare cases, a thread may slip or break.
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels: This is the most serious risk, which can only be minimised by an experienced doctor with a thorough understanding of anatomy.
Should complications arise, such as an infection or asymmetry requiring treatment, the cost of correction could be considerable. A Consequential Costs Insurance can protect you from these unexpected financial burdens.
How much does a thread lift cost?
The cost depends largely on the number, type and material of the threads used, as well as the area being treated.
- Small areas (e.g. eyebrow lift): from approx. €400 – €800
- Medium-sized areas (e.g. cheeks, jawline): approx. €800 – €2,000
- Full facelift (face and neck): approx. €2,000 – €3,500
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about thread lifts
Only registered doctors with specialist training and proven experience in this technique. The treatment requires an excellent knowledge of facial anatomy.
Depending on the type of thread used, your individual metabolism and lifestyle, the results last for around 1 to 3 years. Collagen formation ensures a longer-lasting tightening effect in the treated areas; however, this does not halt the skin’s natural ageing process, but merely counteracts it to some extent visually.
Allow for a recovery period of 3 to 7 days. Swelling and bruising may be visible during this time. You should avoid sport, saunas and exaggerated facial expressions for around 2 weeks.
Thanks to the local anaesthetic, the insertion of the threads itself is not painful. However, you may feel a sensation of pressure or tugging. Mild, pulling pains may occur in the days that follow.
In the first few weeks following the procedure, stitches can often be partially or completely removed by an experienced doctor if problems arise (e.g. marked asymmetry or infection). The longer it has been since the procedure, the more difficult and risky removal becomes.