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.

How much do thread lifts cost in Paris?

The price depends on the number of threads and the treated area. For a complete face, expect between €1,200 and €2,500 per session. For limited areas (eyebrows, oval only): €600 to €1,200. Thread lifts are an aesthetic medicine procedure, not covered by the national health insurance. A quote is provided during the consultation.

What is the difference between thread lifts and a surgical facelift?

Thread lifts offer a mild to moderate lifting effect, without surgery, with quick recovery (24–48 h) and limited duration of effect (12–18 months). The surgical cervicofacial lift treats more marked laxity, gives a more significant result lasting 8–12 years, but requires complete surgery, general anaesthesia and 2–3 weeks of recovery. The choice depends on the degree of laxity and your willingness to undergo surgery.

Are thread lifts painful?

Placement is performed under local anaesthesia, which makes the procedure practically painless. A sensation of tension, tightness or small soreness may persist for 3 to 5 days. Simple analgesics (paracetamol) are usually sufficient. Discomfort decreases rapidly and disappears in less than a week.

Can thread lifts be combined with other treatments?

Yes, frequently. Thread lifts combine particularly well with: hyaluronic acid injections (to restore volumes), botulinum toxin (for expression lines), peels or laser (for skin quality). This multimodal approach often gives more harmonious results than a single isolated procedure.

Are there contraindications to thread lifts?

Main contraindications: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active skin infection on the area to be treated, coagulation disorders, autoimmune diseases in flare-up, allergy to thread components. Active smoking reduces effectiveness and increases risks. A complete assessment at the consultation determines eligibility.

Thread Lifts

Pr Ignacio Garrido — médecine esthétique

Example photo, no result can be guaranteed

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.

Thread Lifts

Example photo, no result can be guaranteed

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.

Last updated : 20 October 2018

Frequently asked questions

Your questions, our answers

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.
How much do thread lifts cost in Paris?
The price depends on the number of threads and the treated area. For a complete face, expect between €1,200 and €2,500 per session. For limited areas (eyebrows, oval only): €600 to €1,200. Thread lifts are an aesthetic medicine procedure, not covered by the national health insurance. A quote is provided during the consultation.
What is the difference between thread lifts and a surgical facelift?
Thread lifts offer a mild to moderate lifting effect, without surgery, with quick recovery (24–48 h) and limited duration of effect (12–18 months). The surgical cervicofacial lift treats more marked laxity, gives a more significant result lasting 8–12 years, but requires complete surgery, general anaesthesia and 2–3 weeks of recovery. The choice depends on the degree of laxity and your willingness to undergo surgery.
Are thread lifts painful?
Placement is performed under local anaesthesia, which makes the procedure practically painless. A sensation of tension, tightness or small soreness may persist for 3 to 5 days. Simple analgesics (paracetamol) are usually sufficient. Discomfort decreases rapidly and disappears in less than a week.
Can thread lifts be combined with other treatments?
Yes, frequently. Thread lifts combine particularly well with: hyaluronic acid injections (to restore volumes), botulinum toxin (for expression lines), peels or laser (for skin quality). This multimodal approach often gives more harmonious results than a single isolated procedure.
Are there contraindications to thread lifts?
Main contraindications: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active skin infection on the area to be treated, coagulation disorders, autoimmune diseases in flare-up, allergy to thread components. Active smoking reduces effectiveness and increases risks. A complete assessment at the consultation determines eligibility.

About the surgeon

Pr Ignacio Garrido

Plastic and aesthetic surgeon

Pr Ignacio Garrido is a qualified plastic surgeon practising at the Clinique Alphand in Paris 16. Specialising in facial, breast and body surgery, he supports his patients with a rigorous and personalised medical approach.

Book an appointment 06 60 84 75 78 See full profile

The information presented on this site is for general informational purposes only. It does not replace an individualised medical consultation. Any therapeutic decision must be made following discussion with the practitioner. No guarantee of results can be given.