Thread lift: results and how long they last

What is a thread lift?

A thread lift is a procedure in which threads are placed beneath the skin using a needle. To pull up sagging tissue, threads with small barbs (cogs) are often used to catch and lift the tissue. These threads are described as a material distinct from ordinary surgical sutures; they vary in composition, purpose, and performance by type, and the materials have expanded beyond polydioxanone (PDO) to many others ^[4].

The reason thread lifts attract interest lies in how they differ from surgery. One review explained that surgery such as a facelift (rhytidectomy) is costly, often requires general anesthesia, and carries risks such as scarring and a long recovery, and it presented the thread lift as an alternative ^[5]. The same review stressed that appropriate patient selection is very important for good results and satisfaction ^[5].

Results, durability, and how strong the evidence is

A 2006 review considered the thread lift to be still in its early stages but likely to become a useful procedure ^[1]. A 2018 systematic review that revisited the same question 11 years later analyzed 12 of the 188 articles found that met its criteria, and concluded that little meaningful evidence had been added over that time to support those hopes in terms of effectiveness or safety ^[1].

In this review, all but two of the studies found that the lifting effect was at best very short-lived ^[1]. The two studies with positive results were funded by thread manufacturers ^[1].

A 2021 review also searched the articles of the past 10 years again and examined 20 clinical studies and 2 experimental studies, reporting that although the thread lift is regarded as a promising method, no new evidence supporting its use had been added ^[2]. It was also pointed out that the popularity of this procedure has been driven more by patient demand than by data ^[2]. Another review likewise stated that the evidence is limited and that many studies have varying degrees of bias ^[6].

Therefore, the research summaries reviewed for this article do not provide reliable figures that would allow us to say the effects last a certain number of months or years. It is best to discuss what to expect regarding how long results last with your doctor after an examination, based on your individual condition.

Differences between types of threads

Threads can be divided into absorbable threads that dissolve in the body and nonabsorbable threads that do not. A review of the materials presented observations on the effectiveness and durability of both types and emphasized the efficiency of high-quality absorbable barbed threads (cog threads) ^[4]. It also stated that when choosing threads, many factors should be considered together, not just how long they last ^[4].

However, this is a review summarizing the properties of the materials, and the research summary does not present results comparing the effects of different types of threads in numbers. It is best to ask separately during your consultation which threads will be used and why.

Possible complications

The thread lift is sometimes presented as a relatively low-risk procedure, but this description assumes that it is performed by a practitioner with a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy ^[6]. According to a 2025 review of complications, a wide range of complications can occur, from mild bruising to serious structural damage ^[3].

Common complications were bruising, pain, swelling, bleeding, and skin dimpling, and they often stemmed from improper technique or anatomical factors ^[3]. Serious problems such as infection, granulomas, threads moving out of place (thread migration), nerve injury, and injury to the parotid gland were less common but difficult to manage ^[3].

Management methods described included massage, saline or filler injections, botulinum toxin, and surgical treatment for persistent or severe cases ^[3]. Performing the procedure under ultrasound guidance was reported to be effective, particularly in reducing the risk of injury to the salivary glands and blood vessels ^[3]. If dimpling or pain persists after the procedure, or if you develop symptoms that suggest infection, such as warmth or pus, do not try to fix it yourself; see the medical team who performed the procedure.

Who is it considered for?

One review described the thread lift as an alternative to surgery, or as a method that can be combined with other cosmetic treatments such as filler, muscle-relaxing injections (neuromodulators), and surgery ^[6]. It is also stressed that choosing appropriate patients is very important for the result ^[5].

Given that in the systematic review, the durability of the effect was at best very short-lived in all but two of the studies, people hoping for long-lasting change should compare it with other methods ^[1]. The sources reviewed here contain no evidence showing that a thread lift produces the same results as a facelift, so it is best to weigh your options with a specialist based on how much sagging you have and the results you want.

What to check during your consultation

The 2021 review stated that people seeking a thread lift should be fully informed about adverse reactions, how long the effects last, and the fact that data on its effectiveness are limited ^[2]. Asking about the following during your consultation can help.

• The material and type of threads used, and why they were chosen
• An explanation of how much change to expect and how long it lasts
• Common complications and rare but serious ones
• How complications are handled and how to get in touch
• How it compares with other options such as filler or surgery