A non-surgical procedure using dissolvable PDO threads to lift and support sagging facial tissue.
About the procedure
What this procedure involves
A thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that lifts and supports sagging facial tissue using fine, dissolvable threads made of polydioxanone (PDO), a material long used in surgical sutures. It offers a more subtle, temporary lift than a surgical facelift, usually with a shorter recovery. Dr Jassim Daood performs thread lifts at the Bankstown clinic under local anaesthetic. Whether a thread lift or another approach suits you depends on your individual circumstances, which are assessed at a consultation.
Recovery
Recovery varies between patients. Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness are common in the first days and usually settle within one to two weeks. Many people return to work within a day or two. Aftercare includes avoiding rubbing the face, sleeping on your back initially, and avoiding strenuous activity for a short period.
In depth
More about this procedure
Detailed information about this procedure. Select a section to read more.
A thread lift may be considered by people with mild to moderate sagging of the cheeks, jawline or brow who want a lift without surgery, or who are not ready for a surgical facelift. It is generally suited to those in good general health with realistic expectations about the degree of change possible.
A thread lift is not equivalent to a surgical facelift; the lift is more subtle and the effect is temporary. Whether a thread lift, surgery or no treatment is the appropriate path for you is assessed individually at your consultation.
The procedure places fine, dissolvable threads made of polydioxanone (PDO), a material long used in surgical sutures, beneath the skin using a needle or fine cannula. The threads anchor and gently reposition the soft tissue, and their presence also stimulates the body to produce collagen around them.
It is performed under local anaesthetic as a walk-in, walk-out clinic procedure, usually taking under an hour depending on the areas treated. The threads dissolve gradually over the months that follow.
Threads can be placed in a number of areas, and which areas are appropriate for you is determined at your consultation:
Cheeks and mid-face
Jawline and jowls
Brow
Neck
Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness or pulling are common in the first days and usually settle within one to two weeks. Many people return to work within a day or two, depending on the individual.
Aftercare instructions typically include avoiding rubbing or massaging the face, sleeping on your back initially, and avoiding strenuous exercise and dental procedures for a short period.
A thread lift can produce a subtle lift and improved support, with the collagen response developing over the following months. The effect is temporary; the threads dissolve, and the lift gradually fades, with the overall duration varying between individuals.
Repeat treatment can be considered once the effect has faded. Realistic expectations about the degree and duration of change are an important part of the consultation.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
A thread lift places fine, dissolvable PDO threads beneath the skin to lift and support sagging tissue and stimulate collagen. Whether it is appropriate for you is assessed at your consultation.
A thread lift is non-surgical, performed under local anaesthetic with a short recovery, and produces a more subtle, temporary lift. A surgical facelift produces a more substantial and longer-lasting change. Which suits you is discussed at your consultation.
A thread lift generally suits people with mild to moderate sagging who want a lift without surgery. Suitability is assessed individually, and some people are better suited to other approaches, including surgery or no treatment.
Under local anaesthetic, threads are placed beneath the skin using a needle or fine cannula and positioned to lift the tissue. The procedure is usually completed within an hour, depending on the areas treated.
The threads dissolve gradually over months, and the lift fades over time. Duration varies between individuals and is discussed at your consultation, along with when repeat treatment could be considered.
Swelling, bruising and tightness are common at first and usually settle within one to two weeks. Many people return to work within a day or two, following the aftercare instructions provided.
Cost depends on your individual procedure and is provided in writing after your consultation. Any quote reflects the total cost, covering the surgeon, anaesthesia, facility fees, aftercare and any garments required.
No. A GP referral is required for cosmetic surgery consultations, but not for non-surgical procedures such as a thread lift. A consultation is still required to assess suitability.
