Thread Lift

A thread lift uses absorbable sutures inserted under the skin to reposition soft tissue, most often in the mid-face, jawline or neck. Threads are typically made of polydioxanone (PDO), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) or polycaprolactone (PCL), all of which dissolve over time.

How it works

Barbed or cogged threads are passed through the tissue on a cannula or needle and then drawn to engage and lift the tissue. Smooth threads without barbs do not lift; they are used to provoke a collagen response. As the thread dissolves, the fibrous reaction around it is intended to provide some continuing support.

What is involved

• Treatment time: commonly 45 to 60 minutes.
• Anaesthetic: local anaesthetic at entry points.
• Duration: commonly quoted as 12 to 18 months, though this varies widely and evidence for durability is weak.

Recovery

Swelling, bruising and tenderness are usual for one to two weeks. A pulling or tight sensation on wide mouth opening is common early on. Most practitioners advise avoiding dental work, facial massage and strenuous exercise for two to three weeks, and sleeping on the back.

Risks and limitations

Recognised complications include visible or palpable threads, dimpling or puckering of the skin, asymmetry, thread extrusion through the skin, infection, prolonged swelling, and nerve irritation. Threads can be technically difficult to remove if a problem occurs.

A thread lift is not equivalent to a facelift. The amount of lift achievable is limited, it is temporary, and results in heavier or more lax tissue are frequently disappointing. Where there is substantial skin excess, surgery achieves what threads cannot.

Regulation in the UK

Non-surgical cosmetic injectables are not yet subject to a licensing scheme in England. At present no qualification, training or medical registration is legally required to administer dermal filler. The Health and Care Act 2022 created the legal framework for a licensing scheme, but it has not been fully implemented. Since 1 October 2021 it has been a criminal offence in England to administer dermal filler or injectable muscle-relaxing treatments for a cosmetic purpose to anyone under 18.

Because of this, the single most useful thing to check is who is treating you: their professional registration (GMC, GDC, NMC or GPhC), what training they have in the specific procedure, what insurance they hold, and what happens if there is a complication out of hours.

Information on this page reflects NHS and British Association of Dermatologists patient guidance and current UK regulatory position. It is general information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for an individual assessment by a qualified clinician.