Thread Lift: Procedure, Results, Recovery and Risks
Updated: 6 days ago
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026 · How we review
Quick Answer: What is a thread lift?
A thread lift is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in which a plastic surgeon places medical-grade threads under the skin to lift sagging skin on the face or neck and stimulate collagen production. The procedure takes about an hour under local anesthesia, recovery is quick, and results are subtle and last one to three years. [1]
What the research says
Most side effects are minor and short-lived. A systematic review of 19 studies covering 1,406 patients found that bruising (19.5%), swelling (16.8%) and tenderness (10.0%) were the most common complications, while infection (2.5%), skin tingling or numbness (1.1%) and blood collection under the skin (0.6%) were rare. Barbed threads and threads not anchored in place caused more complications than smooth or fixed threads. (Ojha et al., Dermatologic Surgery, 2025) [2]
A long-lasting lift is not well proven. A systematic review of 12 clinical studies found little solid evidence on long-term effectiveness: most showed only a very limited duration of the lifting effect, and the two positive studies were funded by thread manufacturers. (Gülbitti et al., Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018) [3]
Bruising is the most common problem in everyday practice. In a prospective study of 58 patients treated on the midface, jawline, neck or nose and followed for 6 months, bruising affected 30%, pain 17.2% and swelling 6.9%, and the overall complication rate was described as relatively low. (Rezaee Khiabanloo et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020) [4]
Key takeaways
A thread lift uses dissolvable medical-grade threads placed under the skin to lift sagging skin and trigger new collagen. [1]
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, takes about an hour, and you go home the same day. [1]
Results are subtle and temporary, lasting one to three years. [1]
Swelling and bruising can last up to five days; most people return to work right away. [1]
Complications are uncommon and include allergic reaction, bleeding, infection, and pulling or lumpiness. [1]
Fever, a headache that won't go away, or swelling lasting longer than 48 hours needs prompt medical attention. [1]
Thread lift at a glance
Feature | What to expect |
Procedure type | Nonsurgical, cosmetic [1] |
Treated areas | Face (eyebrows, eye area, nose) and neck [1] |
Anesthesia | Local — you stay awake but feel no pain [1] |
Procedure time | About 1 hour [1] |
Going home | Right after the procedure [1] |
Swelling and bruising | Up to 5 days [1] |
Return to work | Usually right away [1] |
Vigorous exercise | Often delayed for 2 weeks [1] |
How long results last | 1 to 3 years [1] |
Typical candidate age | Late 30s to early 50s [1] |
What is a thread lift?
A thread lift is a nonsurgical procedure that lifts sagging, aging skin and stimulates collagen production to give the face or neck a more youthful appearance. [1] Plastic surgeons place medical-grade thread under the skin and use it to pull the skin into position. [1]
Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and supple, and the body makes less of it with age. [1] The threads activate the body's natural healing response, which increases collagen production. [1] Threads come in several materials and lengths. [1]
A thread lift is different from a facelift because it involves no surgery and creates subtle changes. [1] It is often called a "lunchtime facelift" because the procedure is quick and the downtime is minimal. [1]
How does a thread lift work?
A thread lift works by lifting loose skin with threads placed beneath it and then boosting collagen as the body heals around them. [1] The surgeon inserts the threads through a thin needle called a cannula, positions them under the skin, and uses them to pull the skin upward. [1]
Over time, the threads dissolve and the body absorbs them. [1] The collagen that forms during healing helps improve skin elasticity. [1] If you want to understand the skin layers involved, see our guide to skin anatomy and function.
What types of thread lifts are available?
The main types of thread lifts are the cat or fox eye lift, the eyebrow lift, the nose lift and the neck lift. [1] Each one targets a different area.
Type | Area treated | What it does |
Cat or fox eye thread lift | Outer eyebrows and temples | Lifts the eyebrows toward the temples for a catlike eye shape [1] |
Eyebrow thread lift | Eyebrows and brow skin | Lifts sagging or furrowed eyebrows and tightens the skin [1] |
Nose thread lift | Nose | Lifts, straightens or slims the nose; sometimes combined with dermal fillers [1] |
Neck thread lift | Neck | Lifts loose neck skin or smooths neck lines [1] |
If you are weighing a surgical option for the nose or neck, compare these with rhinoplasty and a neck lift (platysmaplasty).
Who is a good candidate for a thread lift?
A good candidate for a thread lift is usually an adult with early signs of aging who wants a subtle change without surgery. [1] A thread lift generally suits people who:
Have early signs of aging.
Are in their late 30s to early 50s.
Don't expect dramatic results.
Don't want cosmetic surgery.
Had a facelift or neck lift and want to refresh the results. [1]
Because a thread lift is low risk, it can be an option for some people who cannot have a traditional facelift. [1] For example, people with high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease can still have a thread lift. [1]
Is a thread lift worth it?
A thread lift is worth it for some people, depending on their goals: the procedure is quick with little downtime and risk, but results are subtle and temporary. [1] Before you decide, discuss these questions with your plastic surgeon:
How long do you want your results to last?
Are you looking for a subtle change or a more dramatic one?
Do you have a small area of skin that needs tightening, or a lot of loose, sagging skin?
Are you a good candidate for cosmetic surgery, or do you want to avoid surgery? [1]
Other nonsurgical options target different signs of aging. Botox injections relax lines caused by muscle movement, and our wrinkles guide covers the wider range of treatments.
What happens during a thread lift procedure?
A thread lift procedure takes about an hour, is done under local anesthesia, and lets you go home the same day. [1]
Before the procedure. Your surgeon explains what to expect. [1] A thread lift does not need general anesthesia; local anesthesia numbs the area, so you stay awake but feel no pain. [1]
During the procedure. The plastic surgeon uses a cannula to insert the threads under your skin. [1]
After the procedure. You can go home right away. [1] Some bruising and swelling around the treated area is expected. [1]
Is a thread lift painful?
A thread lift is not painful during the procedure because local anesthesia blocks pain. [1] Afterward, you may feel some pain, discomfort and soreness. [1] An over-the-counter or prescription pain reliever for several days usually helps until the discomfort fades. [1]
What is thread lift recovery like?
Thread lift recovery is short: swelling and bruising can last up to five days, and most people return to work immediately. [1] Your surgeon may advise waiting two weeks before vigorous exercise or any activity that could loosen the threads. [1]
Time after the procedure | What to expect or do |
Right after | Go home; apply a cold compress or ice pack [1] |
First 24 hours | Avoid washing your face [1] |
First several days | Skip makeup; take pain relief if needed [1] |
Up to 5 days | Swelling and bruising settle [1] |
First 2 weeks | Avoid vigorous exercise and activities that may loosen the threads [1] |
First few weeks | Avoid face moisturizer [1] |
1 to 3 years | Threads dissolve and results fade [1] |
Your surgeon will also give you aftercare instructions, which may include:
Sleeping in a propped-up position.
Taking an antibiotic to prevent infection. [1]
What are the benefits and risks of a thread lift?
The main benefits of a thread lift are low risk, quick recovery and natural collagen stimulation, while the main risks are allergic reaction, bleeding, infection, and pulling or lumpiness. [1] Complications tend to be uncommon. [1]
How long does a thread lift last?
A thread lift lasts from one to three years. [1] The threads gradually dissolve and the body absorbs them. [1] If you are happy with the results, you can have another thread lift. [1]
When should you call a doctor after a thread lift?
You should call your healthcare provider right away after a thread lift if you notice signs of infection: [1]
Fever.
A headache that won't go away.
Swelling that lasts longer than 48 hours. [1]
Conclusion
A thread lift is a quick, nonsurgical way to lift sagging skin on the face or neck while encouraging the body to make new collagen. [1] Recovery is short and complications are uncommon, but the results are subtle and temporary, so you may need a repeat treatment. [1] The research suggests most side effects are mild, while evidence for a long-lasting lift is still limited. [2][3]
Thinking about a thread lift? Write down your goals and the questions above, and book a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to find out whether a thread lift, a facelift or a nonsurgical option such as dermal fillers fits you best. Keep exploring our health library for clear, evidence-based guides like our eyelid surgery guide and chemical peels guide.
FAQ
What is a thread lift?
A thread lift is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses medical-grade threads placed under the skin to lift sagging skin on the face or neck. The threads also trigger the body's healing response, which increases collagen production. [1]
How long does a thread lift last?
A thread lift lasts one to three years. The threads dissolve over time and the body absorbs them, and you can repeat the procedure if you like the results. [1]
Is a thread lift painful?
A thread lift is not painful during the procedure because it is done under local anesthesia. Some pain, discomfort and soreness afterward is common and usually eases with a pain reliever over several days. [1]
How long is recovery after a thread lift?
Recovery after a thread lift is short, with swelling and bruising lasting up to five days. Most people return to work immediately, but your surgeon may advise waiting two weeks before vigorous exercise. [1]
What are the risks of a thread lift?
The risks of a thread lift include allergic reaction, bleeding, infection, and pulling or lumpiness. Thread lift complications tend to be uncommon. [1]
Who is a good candidate for a thread lift?
A good candidate for a thread lift is typically in their late 30s to early 50s, has early signs of aging, and wants a subtle result without surgery. People who had a facelift or neck lift and want to refresh the results may also be candidates. [1]
Can thread lift threads be removed?
Thread lift threads can be removed by the plastic surgeon if you don't like the results. Otherwise, the threads dissolve and the body absorbs them over time. [1]
When should I call a doctor after a thread lift?
Call a doctor right away after a thread lift if you have a fever, a headache that won't go away, or swelling that lasts longer than 48 hours. These can be signs of infection. [1]
What is the difference between a thread lift and a facelift?
A thread lift uses threads placed under the skin to lift it without large incisions, while a facelift is surgery that removes extra skin and tightens deeper tissues. A thread lift has a quicker recovery, but its results are subtler and do not last as long.
What should I avoid after a thread lift?
For the first week or two, avoid rubbing your face, sleeping face down, wide mouth movements and hard exercise. Your provider will tell you when facial massages and other treatments are safe again.
Related Reading
A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Surgical Facelifts compares nonsurgical options for lifting and firming the face.
Facelift Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide to Facial Rejuvenation explains surgical facelifts, recovery and longer-lasting results.
Dermal Fillers: Types, Procedure, Results, and Side Effects covers injectable fillers that restore volume and smooth wrinkles.
Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty): A Guide to Contouring and Rejuvenation describes surgery that tightens loose skin and muscle in the neck.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Thread Lift: What to Expect, Benefits & Complications. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated January 7, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24581-thread-lift
Ojha AS, Farahbakhsh N, Saikaly SK. An Assessment and Comparison of Adverse Effect Rates in Differing Absorbable Thread Lift Suture Materials. Dermatol Surg. 2025;51(3):272-276. PMID 39442180. https://doi.org/10.1097/DSS.0000000000004466
Gülbitti HA, Colebunders B, Pirayesh A, et al. Thread-Lift Sutures: Still in the Lift? A Systematic Review of the Literature. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2018;141(3):341e-347e. PMID 29481392. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000004101
Rezaee Khiabanloo S, Nabie R, Aalipour E. Outcomes in thread lift for face, neck, and nose; A prospective chart review study with APTOS. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(11):2867-2876. PMID 32267994. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13397
Further reading (external)
Tehrani K. What you need to know about thread lifts. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. July 31, 2018. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-thread-lifts
Arora G, Arora S. Neck Rejuvenation with Thread Lift. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2019;12(3):196-200. PMID 31619895. https://doi.org/10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_181_18
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your own situation before having any cosmetic procedure.
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