Trådlyft – known internationally as a thread lift – is a non-surgical procedure in which absorbable threads are inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissue. The technique has been used in surgery since the 1970s, but modern PDO threads (polydioxanone) have made the treatment safer and more accessible.
What are PDO threads?
PDO stands for polydioxanone – a biodegradable material that has been used in surgical sutures for decades. The material gradually breaks down in the body over 6–8 months while stimulating fibroblasts to produce new collagen[1].
Other types of thread:
- PLLA threads (poly-L-lactic acid) – last longer and give stronger collagen stimulation
- PCL threads (polycaprolactone) – a combination of lift and a long-lasting collagen effect
Different types of threads
Mono threads
Smooth, straight threads without barbs. Used mainly for collagen stimulation and skin firmness rather than physical lifting. Common on the face, neck and décolletage.
Cog threads (with barbs)
The threads have small "hooks" or projections along their entire length. These "catch" in the tissue and make physical lifting possible. Used for the jawline, cheeks and sagging nasolabial folds.
Screw threads
Two threads twisted together for extra volume in specific areas.
What does the treatment involve?
- Consultation and marking – the practitioner marks the direction of the threads on the skin
- Local anaesthetic – the area is numbed
- Insertion – the threads are inserted via a very thin cannula or hollow needle
- Lifting and fixation – cog threads are woven in a specific pattern to create lift
- Inspection – the practitioner checks the symmetry and the result
The whole process takes 30–90 minutes depending on the number of threads and areas.
Which areas are treated?
- Jawline – to define and strengthen the contour
- Cheeks – lifting a sagging "midface"
- Nasolabial folds – softening the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Marionette lines – lifting drooping corners of the mouth
- Neck bands – strengthening the contour of the neck
- Eyebrows – a non-surgical brow lift
- Body areas – inner thighs, abdomen, armpits
The cog threads lift the skin immediately after insertion. You see the result in the mirror before you leave the clinic.
Long-term effect (biological)
Over 2–6 months, the threads stimulate fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Once the threads have broken down (after 6–8 months), the new collagen framework remains and continues to support the skin for 12–18 months[2].
Recovery
Most people are fully presentable within 1–3 days. Common reactions:
- Slight swelling and tenderness (1–7 days)
- Small bruises
- Temporary "tightness" from the threads
- In some cases: small bumps under the skin that disappear
You should avoid:
- Intense exercise for 1–2 weeks
- Massaging the area for 2 weeks
- Exaggerated facial expressions during the first week
- Dental appointments that require opening your mouth wide (2 weeks)
How long does a thread lift last?
The effect varies depending on the type of thread:
- PDO threads: 9–12 months
- PLLA threads: 12–18 months
- PCL threads: 18–24 months
The treatment can be repeated if needed.
Thread lift vs HIFU vs plastic surgery
| Method | Principle | Recovery | Lifting effect | Duration |
|---|
| Thread lift | Mechanical lift + collagen stimulation | 1–2 weeks | Moderate to good | 9–18 months |
| HIFU | Ultrasound → collagen | None | Mild to moderate | 12–18 months |
| Plastic surgery | Surgical lift | 4–8 weeks | Substantial | 5–10 years |
Risks and side effects
Most side effects are mild and transient. Common ones:
- Swelling and bruising
- Mild asymmetry (can be adjusted)
- Temporary tightness
Rare but more serious risks:
- Infection (less than 1%)
- The thread can be felt or seen under the skin
- Migration of the thread
- Temporary effects on nerves
It is therefore crucial to choose an experienced practitioner with documented training in thread lifts.
Who is a thread lift suitable for?
A thread lift is best suited to people aged 35–60 with mild to moderate skin laxity. It is not a substitute for a facelift in cases of advanced sagging. For the best results, a thread lift is often combined with fillers or botox.
