As we age, it's natural for our skin to lose firmness and elasticity. Fine lines deepen, cheeks may begin to sag, and that once-smooth jawline softens.

And, to restore a youthful appearance, we keep on trying countless options—firming creams, collagen supplements, facial exercises, lasers, and even injectables like fillers. While these methods can help to some extent, results are often temporary or too subtle to truly lift the skin.

For years, surgical facelifts were the only real option for visible lifting. But not everyone wants—or needs—surgery.

That’s where thread lifts come in: a minimally invasive, in-between solution that offers noticeable results without going under the knife. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what thread face lifts are, how they work, and whether this treatment might be the right next step for you.

What are Thread Lifts? 

A thread lift is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that lifts and tightens sagging skin using special dissolvable threads placed just beneath the surface of the skin.

These threads are made of materials like PDO (polydioxanone), which are commonly used in medical sutures and safely absorbed by the body over time. Once inserted, the threads physically lift the skin and also stimulate natural collagen production to improve skin texture and firmness even after the threads dissolve.

The PDO thread lift market alone was valued at USD 1.1 billion in 2024 and is expected to almost double—around a CAGR of 9.5%—by 2033. 

The treatment is often done in under an hour, requires minimal downtime, and the results can be seen almost immediately. It’s especially popular for lifting areas like the cheeks, jawline, neck, brows, and even under the eyes.

Benefits of Thread Lift Treatment

1. Instant, Natural-Looking Lift

Thread lifts treatment gently lifts and repositions sagging skin using dissolvable threads placed under the skin. Results are visible right after the procedure, and they look natural, not overdone.

Key Benefits:

• Reduces sagging in the cheeks, jawline, and neck

• Enhances facial contours without surgery

• Keeps your natural facial expressions intact
  

2. Boosts Collagen Production

The threads face lifts do more than lift—they trigger your skin to produce collagen, which keeps your skin firmer, smoother, and more youthful over time.

Key Benefits:

• Improves skin elasticity and texture

• Adds volume to hollow areas over time
  

• Helps your skin continue to improve after the threads dissolve
  

3. Minimally Invasive with No Surgery

This is a non-surgical alternative to a facelift. It’s done with tiny needles, under local anesthesia—no cutting, stitches, or general anesthesia needed.

Key Benefits:

• Quick, in-office procedure (usually under 1 hour)

• No surgical scars

• Minimal discomfort during and after treatment
  

4. Little to No Downtime

Most people return to daily activities within a day or two. Side effects are mild and temporary, like slight swelling or bruising.

Key Benefits:

• Quick recovery—often within 24–48 hours

• Great for busy schedules or special events

• No need to take time off work
  

5. Gradual & Long-Lasting Results

You’ll see an immediate lift, but results continue to improve over the next few weeks as your body builds new collagen.

Key Benefits:

• Immediate visible improvement

• Peak results around 2–3 months post-treatment

• Typically lasts 12–18 months
  

6. Customizable to Your Needs

Thread face lifts can be tailored to your face and goals. Whether you need a brow lift, jawline definition, or neck tightening, the number and placement of threads can be personalized.

Key Benefits:

• Treats multiple areas: brows, mid-face, jawline, neck

• Can be combined with other treatments like fillers

• Designed to match your face, not a one-size-fits-all solution
  

7. More Affordable Than a Facelift

Thread lifts treatment offer many of the same lifting benefits as surgery, but at a lower cost and without the recovery time.

Key Benefits:

• Cost-effective option for early signs of aging

• No hospital or surgery fees

• Long-term results without the high price of surgery

Are There Any Side Effects of Thread Lifts?

Thread lifts treatment are minimally invasive, but they still involve inserting threads under the skin, so a few mild, short-term side effects are normal.

Common (Temporary) Side Effects:

• Swelling or redness at the insertion points

• Bruising in treated areas

• Soreness or tenderness for a few days

• Mild pulling or tightness when smiling or chewing

• Slight asymmetry that usually settles as the swelling goes down
  

These side effects typically resolve within a few days to a week.

Less Common (But Possible) Side Effects:

• Infection at the thread site (rare if proper hygiene is followed)

• Thread visibility or slight rippling under thin skin

• Temporary dimpling (like a small bump or pucker at the entry point)

• Minor thread migration or movement if post-care instructions aren’t followed
  
  

These are uncommon and often correct themselves—or can be easily treated by your provider.

How to Minimize Risk? 

• Choose a qualified, experienced practitioner

• Follow aftercare instructions carefully

• Avoid heavy exercise, facial massages, or sleeping on your face for the first few days
  

How Much Does a Thread Face Lift Cost?

The cost of a thread lift typically ranges between $700 to $4,500 in the United States, depending on the area being treated, the number of threads used, and the provider’s expertise. 

• Smaller areas like the brows, under-eyes, or neck may cost between $700 and $1,200, 

• Mid-face or jawline treatments usually fall between $1,500 and $2,500. 

• For a full-face thread lift, the cost can range from $3,000 to $4,500 or more.

Pricing also varies based on the type of threads used (PDO, PLLA, or PCL) and whether other treatments—like fillers or PRP—are added to enhance results. 

To Wrap Up! 

Choosing the right treatment to lift and firm your skin isn’t always about dramatic change; it’s about finding something that feels right for where you are in your journey. 

A thread lift offers just that: a minimally invasive option that supports your skin’s natural structure, encourages collagen, and helps you look refreshed, not altered.

At AE.R Skinlab,  we understand that subtle, graceful results matter. Our approach to thread lifting in Vancouver is rooted in precision, safety, and care, tailored to your features and goals. We believe great skincare is about working with what you already have and helping it thrive.

If you’re exploring ways to feel more confident in your skin, we’re here to guide you with honest advice and skilled hands. Connect with our professionals for consultation & for thread lift treatment today.