Thread Lifts

Thread lifts are resorbable devices inserted under the skin to provide an immediate lifting effect and stimulate collagen production. They are offered as an alternative to or complement of surgical lifting for patients presenting with mild to moderate skin laxity of the face, neck, or body areas. The goal is to improve volume harmony and skin firmness while maintaining a discreet and natural result. This text is intended for general guidance.

Principles of Treatment

• Mechanism of action: the effect of threads relies on two complementary mechanisms: an immediate mechanical repositioning effect on the tissues and a progressive biological action through stimulation of collagen synthesis around the thread.
• Types of threads: resorbable threads are used today (e.g. PDO — polydioxanone, PCL — polycaprolactone, PLLA — polylactic acid) with different profiles (smooth mono, cone, or barbed) depending on the goal — lifting or simple tightening.
• Areas treated: threads can be used at the level of the cheeks, temples, facial oval, jawline, neck, and sometimes for a mild brow lift.
• Personalisation: the choice of thread type, number, and anchoring points is adapted to the patient's morphology, age, and expectations. The prior consultation defines an individualised treatment plan.

Session Process

• Prior consultation: discussion of the reasons for consultation, clinical tissue examination, explanation of alternatives, risks, and development of a personalised plan. Pre-operative photographs and informed consent are obtained.
• Anaesthesia and preparation: placement is performed under local anaesthesia or with a topical anaesthetic cream. The skin is disinfected and marked.
• Technique: the practitioner inserts the threads using needles or cannulas depending on the chosen technique. The procedure generally lasts 30 to 60 minutes depending on the extent of the area treated.
• Comfort: a feeling of tension and mild discomfort may be felt during the procedure. Measures to limit discomfort (local anaesthesia, precise movements) are implemented.
• Immediate follow-up: symmetry and entry point checks, explanation of home care instructions.

Post-treatment Course and Results

• Immediate post-treatment effects: bruising, swelling, mild local pain, sensitivity, or tightness are common in the days following placement. Small palpable irregularities may be felt.
• Onset of results: a lifting effect is often visible immediately; improvement may become clearer over the following weeks thanks to collagen stimulation.
• Average duration: longevity varies depending on the type of thread and individual characteristics. Threads resorb progressively — the mechanical effect decreases over time while the biological effect (remodelling) may persist for several months. Durations generally range from several months to over a year depending on the material.
• Variability: the intensity and duration of the benefit differ from person to person; regular follow-up allows the management to be adjusted.

Contraindications and Precautions

• Main contraindications: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active skin infection in the area to be treated, uncontrolled autoimmune disease, severe healing disorders, inadequately managed anticoagulant treatment, known allergy to the components used.
• Precautions: inform the practitioner of all ongoing medical treatments, history of hypertrophic scarring, or infectious reactions. The practitioner will give specific post-treatment instructions (avoid local massages, manipulation, intense physical effort for 48–72 hours, significant heat exposure for a few days, etc.).

Risks and Possible Side Effects

• Common and transient effects: bruising, swelling, local pain, sensitivity, small palpable irregularities or protrusions under the skin.
• Less frequent risks: local infection, thread migration or partial extrusion, asymmetry, insufficient results, foreign body granuloma, undesirable scar.
• Rare but serious complications: nerve damage, prolonged inflammatory reaction, skin necrosis (rare). Risks will be explained and contextualised during the consultation and consent process.
• Information and management: all these elements are explained before the procedure; management and monitoring measures are in place in case of complication.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is thread lift placement painful? Local anaesthesia is systematically used. Most patients describe discomfort or a pulling sensation rather than intense pain. The experience varies with individual sensitivity.

When can I resume normal activities? Many patients resume light activity the following day. It is however recommended to avoid intense physical effort and any manipulation of the treated area for 48–72 hours. The practitioner will specify adapted recommendations.

How long do thread lifts last? Duration of effect depends on the type of thread and individual response. An immediate mechanical effect is generally observed that decreases over time, and a collagen stimulation-related improvement that can last several months. Duration ranges are variable depending on the materials used.

Are thread lifts suitable for everyone? They are primarily indicated for mild to moderate skin laxity. In cases of severe laxity, a specialist assessment may propose other solutions. The decision is made following a clinical examination and discussion of expectations.