Thread lift

Medical-grade threads are placed under the skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate collagen. It is minimally invasive and done under local anesthesia. Most current threads dissolve over time, so results are temporary, lasting about 1–3 years according to Cleveland Clinic.

Adults with early signs of sagging, often in their late 30s to early 50s, who want a smaller change than a facelift and accept temporary results.

Local anesthesia is given. Threads are inserted under the skin through small entry points, the tissue is lifted, and the threads are anchored and trimmed.

Swelling and bruising can last up to five days. Most people return to work right away, but vigorous exercise is often avoided for about two weeks.

• Swelling (the most common complication), bruising and pain
• Skin dimpling or puckering (about 10% in a 2021 meta-analysis)
• Numbness or tingling, or threads you can see or feel
• Infection or a thread poking through the skin, which is more likely with non-absorbable threads and in people over 50
• Results fading over time

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack
• Do not wash your face for the first 24 hours, and avoid makeup for several days
• Sleep with your head propped up
• Avoid vigorous exercise for about two weeks
• Call the clinic for a fever, a headache that won't go away, or swelling lasting more than 48 hours