Thread lift
What is a Thread Lift? How does a non-surgical lift work?
Thread lift (thread lift) is a lifting treatment that physically raises the face line by inserting special threads under the skin without using a scalpel. ²
It is also known as a "non-invasive facelift," and is characterized by short downtime and the ability to easily feel a sense of tightening immediately after the procedure.
The purpose is basically to lift up the face, but the purpose differs slightly depending on the age of the patient.
- 20s: V-line formation and prevention of future sagging
- 30-60s: Improvement of sagging lines and facial lines
The threads used are made of materials that can be absorbed by the body (PDO, etc.), and the foreign body reaction also stimulates collagen production, which can be expected to have a beautiful skin effect.
People for whom a thread lift is recommended and problems that can be improved
This treatment is suitable for those who have the following problems
- Sagging cheeks and face line
- Lines and marionette lines
- I want to create a double chin and V-line
- Want to prevent future sagging
- I want to raise the head firmly without using a scalpel.
*Surgical procedures such as a facelift may be appropriate for severe sagging.
How a thread lift is pulled up
The thread lift is performed by passing "pronged threads (cogs)" under the skin to physically hook the tissue and pull it upward, thereby reshaping the face line.
Specifically, one side of the thread is inserted to the area of the laugh lines and marionette lines. From there, the other side of the thread is brought to the temple area.
The threads have "prongs" (cogs) like a fishing hook, so the tissue under the skin is caught on the threads, which pulls up the entire cheek.
Skin beautifying effect by increasing collagen production
In a thread lift, the fibroblasts inside the skin are activated by the stimulation of the threads, and collagen and elastin are produced. This results in a lifting effect as well asSkin beautifying effects such as improvement of skin elasticity and luster and reduction of fine lines and wrinklesis obtained.
Animal studies have shown a significant increase in fibroblasts and collagen around the threads and tissue shrinkage after 4 weeks of thread insertion¹.
Ultrasound analysis of actual clinical cases has reported increases in collagen density of up to +38% over 3 to 12 months after PDO thread insertion⁴.
Furthermore, the collagen produced will support the skin from the inside even after the threads are absorbed,Easy to maintain lifted condition for 1-2 yearsIt is considered to be a In addition to the lifting effect that can be felt immediately after the procedure, the reaction that occurs within theAlso effective in preventing sagging in the future.The thread lift is a unique feature of this technique.
Effects and Benefits of Thread Lift
How long does a thread lift last? How long does it last? We are often asked these questions.
In this section,Immediate effect immediately after treatment / Approximate duration / Delayed skin improvement with collagenThe following is an easy-to-understand introduction to the following topics.
Lifting effect that can be felt immediately
The greatest feature of the thread lift is its immediate effect of "immediate lift.
Sagging facial lines and cheeks are tightened immediately after the procedure,Lines and marionette lines become less noticeable.Many changes are seen.
- Immediately after surgery: Visually noticeable lifting
- 1-2 weeks: Swelling and internal bleeding subside, and facial expression becomes natural.
At Smart Skin Clinic, we offer custom-made adjustments. Specifically, we listen to each individual's requests, such as "I want a natural change" OR "I want a firm lift," and perform the adjustment.
How long does the effect last?
The lifting effect of a thread lift is not permanent and is generallyAbout 6 months to 1 yearis considered to be a good rule of thumb. especially the peak of the visible effect,3-6 months after surgery.
Thereafter, the threads are gradually absorbed, and a retouching every 6 to 12 months will maintain a stable effect.
However, the duration is greatly affected by the "thread material and type.
| Yarn type | Approximate duration | forte |
|---|---|---|
| PDO | Approx. 6-12 months | For beginners / Low price |
| PLLA | Approx. 12-18 months | Enhanced collagen production |
| PCL | Approx. 18-24 months | Superior strength and durability |
As shown in the table above, the PDO to PCL varies widely.
Major overseas medical institutions guide that the lifting effect lasts "approximately one to three years"³.
Delayed effect" due to collagen
A thread inserted under the skin is recognized by the body as a foreign body.Stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastinPrompts the
This allows for a skin beautification effect at the same time. Specifically, the following timeline of effects is shown below.
- 1-3 months postoperatively: Increased elasticity and luster/Improved skin texture
- After 6 months: The threads are absorbed, but collagen supports the skin's foundation.
Therefore, after the thread lift, the skin will not "completely return to its original state," but the collagen foundation will create a "better state" than before the procedure.
In fact, it has been shown that collagen production may continue beyond six months of treatment⁴.
Disadvantages and risks of thread lift
Thread lift is a popular treatment for sagging skin,Be aware of side effects and failures in advance.is the first step in receiving peace of mind. Here is an itemized list of common risks and concerns.
Symptoms and duration of downtime
Recovery is faster than surgery using a scalpel, though,The following temporary symptoms may occur immediately after treatment
- Swelling, swelling, and internal bleeding (peaks in 1 to 3 days, settles in 1 to 2 weeks)
- Feeling of tightness, difficulty opening the mouth, discomfort (usually gradually reduced)
- Mild pain or tenderness (controllable with analgesics)
Possible side effects/complications
It occurs infrequently,Risk of side effects includingis not zero.
| risk | Contents | remarks |
|---|---|---|
| infectious disease | Bacteria entering through the thread insertion opening / redness, swelling, pus, etc. | Most are preventable with advance sanitation. |
| Unevenness, lumps | Occurs when the thread enters too shallow a layer, for example | Usually improves spontaneously/removal considered if prolonged |
| left-lateral difference | Bias in the number of threads and tension / Differences in the appearance of swelling | Often naturally aligned but can be readjusted |
| Other | Thread protrusion or severance, rarely nerve irritation | Prevention is key with an experienced physician. |
A systematic review reported 26% internal bleeding, 16% swelling, 2% infection, and 5% thread exposure⁶.
Pain during and after the procedure
Thread lift usually,local anesthesiaThe pain is controlled by Most of the pain occurs during the injection of anesthesia and a few hours after surgeryMild tingling or tendernessand can be adequately controlled with painkillers.
- If you do not like anesthesia injectionsLaughing or intravenous anesthesiaSome clinics also offer a choice of
- Postoperative pain usually peaks within 3 days and is mild within a week or so.
- Most of the range can be handled with over-the-counter medications (e.g., loxonin, acetaminophen)
Examples of failures and workarounds
Although a thread lift is a highly effective procedure when performed correctly, the following "unexpected results" can occur
| Example of Failure | cause | counter-measure |
|---|---|---|
| Threads show through. | Wrong thread selection, too shallow insertion | Must be designed for skin thickness |
| Uneven surface | Floating cogged threads | Most cases improve spontaneously / if prolonged, removal is addressed. |
| left-lateral difference | Lack of technical balance OR difference in swelling | Can be improved by readjustment, often with a few months of observation. |
| Dissatisfaction with the finished product | Misalignment of expectations and lack of explanation | It is important to share the image in counseling. |
Types of Thread Lift and How to Choose
There are various "materials," "shapes," and "procedures" for thread lifts, and the "strength of effect," "duration," and "price" vary depending on these differences. Here, we will organize the basic types of thread lifts and how to choose the right one for you.
Absorbable vs. non-absorbable threads
- Absorbable threads (currently mainstream): Dissolves in the body in a few months to a few years. Gradually absorbed naturally while stimulating collagen production.
- Non-absorbable thread (old type): permanent threads that remain in the body (e.g., gold threads, etc.). In recent years.Deprecated due to risk of infection and foreign body sensation.
Non-absorbable threads have been pointed out as a risk of infection and exposure due to residuals in the body, and absorbable threads are now the norm⁵.
By Yarn Material｜Three Mainstream Types
As shown in the previous chart, the three mainstream yarn materials are the three in this table.
| Yarn type | Approximate duration | forte |
|---|---|---|
| PDO | Approx. 6-12 months | For beginners / Low price |
| PLLA | Approx. 12-18 months | Enhanced collagen production |
| PCL | Approx. 18-24 months | Superior strength and durability |
In experimental comparisons, PCL has been shown to increase collagen production about 1.5 times more than PDO or PLLA⁵.
In addition, the latest reviews have developed absorbable threads with a mesh structure, which are expected to further prolong the lasting effect⁷.
Shape of the thread and type of procedure
(1) Cogged thread lift (so-called thread lift)
- The jagged "spikes" catch the skin and pull it up.
- The effects are easily felt immediately afterwards and are specialized in improving facial lines.
2) Smooth thread (shopping lift)
- Insertion of many threads thinner than hair → Improvement of skin elasticity and luster
- No need for scalpels, less downtime than a thread lift / Effects are gradual and long-lasting
- Suitable for sagging care, tightening and prevention
Flow of thread lift procedure
Although thread lifts are a day-care cosmetic procedure,Understand advance preparation and aftercareis the key to the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. Here is an easy-to-understand explanation of the process from the initial consultation to the post-treatment period.
The first step is a consultation with the doctor to discuss the state of sagging, the balance of the face, and the ideal result. The type and number of threads to be inserted, as well as the location and angle of insertion, will be decided together, and any concerns should be cleared up here.
The risk of swelling and internal bleeding can be minimized by observing the following precautions before the procedure:
- Medication and supplement restrictions: Discontinuation periods for blood thinners such as aspirin, as directed by a physician.
- Drinking alcohol, hot spicy drinks, nutritional drinks, etc.: Avoid anything that leads to increased blood circulation the day before.
- Clothing and MakeupLight makeup or no makeup is recommended as makeup is removed before the treatment. Wear clothes that will not ruin your hairstyle.
- Facial cleansing/cleansing
After the visit, remove makeup and cleanse the skin. - Design and Marking
Mark the face to confirm how the threads are to be inserted and where you want to pull them up. - local anesthesia
There is mild pain at the time of injection, but it is virtually painless during the procedure. - Thread insertion (procedure)
Using a very fine needle or cannula, the thread is inserted under the skin. The procedure takes about 10 to 20 minutes. - Finish check and disinfection
Check the finished product in the mirror, and if there are no problems, you can go home directly.
Downtime after a thread lift is relatively short, but the results will be more stable if the following three points are observed
Do not rub/press down hard on the face.
→ Soft skin care for about 2 weeks. Massage is not recommended for 1 month.
● Don't open your big mouth
→ Avoid excessive laughing, yawning, dental work, etc. The risk of thread movement increases.
● Avoid drinking, bathing, and strenuous exercise
→ This can cause prolonged swelling. Sauna and jogging are recommended to be rested for about a week.
Comparison of thread lift with other procedures
The term "sagging treatment" covers a wide range of methods, including thread lift, HIFU, hyaluronic acid, surgical lift (facelift), and Botox. Here,Differences in Purpose, Effectiveness, Risk, and Cost Perceptionfor an easy-to-understand comparison.
| (data) item | thread lifting | HIFU | hyaluronic acid | Facelift (incision) | Botox | cosmetic acupuncture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type of effect | Lifting + beautiful skin | tightening | Wrinkle filling and contouring | Pull-up (extraction) | Improvement of expression wrinkles | Promotes blood circulation and improves skin quality |
| immediate effectivity | ◎(Immediately after) | △ (after 1-2 months) | ◎(Immediately after) | ◎(Immediately after surgery) | △ (3-5 days later) | △ (next day) |
| Duration | Approx. 6 months to 2 years | Approx. 6 months to 1 year | Approx. 6 months to 1 year | 5 to 10 years | 3-6 months | 1-2 weeks (regular care required) |
| Down time | 3-7 days | almost never | almost never | 2 weeks to 2 months | nashi (Pyrus pyrifolia, esp. var. culta) | almost never |
| cost effectiveness | Around 200,000-700,000 yen | 30,000-150,000 yen | 10,000-100,000 yen/piece | 500,000-1,000,000 yen or more | From several tens of thousands of yen | Several thousand yen to around 10,000 yen |
| Recommendation layer | Moderate to severe sagging in the 30-50s | Minor sagging/preventive care | Volume and wrinkle filler | Severe sagging/60s~. | People with prominent expression wrinkles | Natural and those who want to be regulated from the inside out. |
Thread lift vs. HIFU
- thread lifting: A thread is inserted under the skin and the skin is physically pulled up.Immediate realization / Strong lifting power / Collagen production is also good
- HIFU: Tightening with thermal energy.Changes are gradual over a month or two.
- By combining the two, "HIFU for skin tightening" and "thread lift for skin lifting" can be used to enhance the effect.
Thread lift vs. hyaluronic acid injection
- thread lifting: Pulls the skin itself upward.Eliminate causes of sagging
- hyaluronic acidDirect volume replacement to wrinkles and indentations.Fast effect, but absorbed in 6 months to 1 year
- Combinations can be used to adjust facial contours and improve lifted appearance
Thread lift vs. incision lift
- thread liftingNo scalpel required / about 1 week of downtime
- incision liftIncision around the ear / scar / long downtime, butPowerful sagging treatment that lasts 5-10 years
- Choice according to age and severity of sagging (guideline: thread = 30-50s / incision = 60s and up)
Thread lift vs. Botox
- Botox: Prevents wrinkles by weakening the facial muscles.Not for sagging
Price of a thread lift and cost at our clinic
For those who just want to know the conclusion (national average) first
- 8 PDO Threads ... Around 200,000-300,000 yen
- 8 high durability yarns (PCL/PLLA, etc.) ... Around 400,000-600,000 yen
*The total amount varies greatly depending on the number of pieces, materials, and discount programs.
General Prices for Thread Lift
The cost of a thread lift is primarily (1) Yarn material (2) Number of yarns used (3) Price structure The three factors are determined by the following three factors
note (supplementary information) symbolMarket price is a guideThe actual cost of the procedure will be The actual cost will go up or down depending on the nature of the procedure, case difficulty, and local cost.
| element (e.g. in array, in programming, in programming) | Examples and Market Sense (key points only) |
|---|---|
| (1) Yarn material |
|
| Number of units used | Mild 4-6 pcs. / Moderate to severe 8-12 pcs. or more |
| Price structure | Set Discount and Monitor Discount 20 to 40 It can be cheaper. |
- Number of pieces/materials is clearly indicated on the price label?
- Counseling / Anesthesia is within the fee?
- Monitors and first-time buyers Difference from regular price and conditions
- "All you can put in." Is there a cap on the number of units or additional costs for
- Counseling must include "Which thread / How many bottles /How much is the total? Confirmation of
Our Thread Lift Pricing Plans
| number of long thin objects (movies, TV programs, baseball games, etc.) | Normal price | Monitor price |
|---|---|---|
| six (long cylindrical things) | 50,800 yen | 43,800 yen |
| 8 bottles | 65,980 yen | 57,600 yen |
| 10 bottles | 79,800 yen | 70,800 yen |
| 12 pcs. | 93,600 yen | 83,800 yen |
| 16 pcs. | 121,600 yen | 110,400 yen |
| 20 bottles | 148,000 yen | 136,000 yen |
| number of long thin objects (movies, TV programs, baseball games, etc.) | Normal price | Monitor price |
|---|---|---|
| six (long cylindrical things) | 89,800 yen | 79,800 yen |
| 8 bottles | 113,800 yen | 103,800 yen |
| 10 bottles | 134,800 yen | 124,800 yen |
| 12 pcs. | 155,800 yen | 145,800 yen |
| 16 pcs. | 194,800 yen | 184,800 yen |
| 20 bottles | 229,800 yen | 219,800 yen |
3 Reasons to Choose Smart Skin Clinic
Using cannulas that have been refined through over 10,000 cases* of injections per yearCustom-made design with high technology, ,fair or reasonable pricedesign, andConveniently located 3-minute walk from Jimbocho and Yokohama Station is the strength of our hospital.
*Injection-based treatment results for FY2024
Custom-made thread lift by an experienced doctor
- Injection systems 1,000 or more Performed by physicians familiar with cannula operation with a proven track record in the
- Thorough "custom-made design" based on anti-aging expertise + anatomy by supervising medical specialists from the Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
- All the process from counseling to treatment is handled by a doctor, not a counselor.
Reasonable price with no waste × High quality
- Minimize glamorous interiors, back-office labor costs, etc.fair or reasonable priceRealization of
- Direct counseling by physicians without counselors and a small number of elite staff to reduce waste.
- Standardization of treatment process with AI tools = "no loss of quality".
3 minutes from Jimbocho and Yokohama stations
- Jimbocho InstituteJimbocho Station: 3 min. walk from Subway Exit A9
- Yokohama Institute of Technology：3 min. walk from West Exit of JR Yokohama Sta.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about thread lift
- Is a thread lift painful?
-
Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia plus an ultrafine cannula, pain is limited to the sting of the injection. Postoperative discomfort like muscle aches may last 1-3 days, but can be controlled with prescription painkillers.
- What kind of anesthesia do you use?
-
Local anesthesia will be used.
- How long do the effects last?
-
The lifting effect lasts approximately 6 months to 1 year; PDO threads are absorbed in 6 to 8 months, and PCL threads take approximately 2 years to absorb, but the collagen effect produced lasts several more months.
- When will I start to feel the effects?
-
The lifting effect begins immediately after the treatment and is completed 2 weeks after the swelling subsides. Over the next 3 to 6 months, collagen increases and skin texture improvement can be felt.
- What should I be aware of during downtime?
-
Avoid strenuous exercise, facial massage, and large mouth openings for 1-2 weeks. Sleep on your back and moderate alcohol consumption until the swelling subsides to speed recovery.
- How many to put in? What is the estimated cost?
-
Mild sagging = around 4 per side, entire face line = 6-8 per side is common.
- Can anyone take the course? What are the age restrictions?
-
The treatment is available for people in their 20s to 70s. Pregnancy, serious pre-existing medical conditions, and extreme skin diseases may be considered by the physician.
- Are there any failures or corrections?
-
Swelling subsides and left-right differences usually settle down in 1 to 2 weeks, but there are no rare problems such as unevenness and thread exposure. We have a re-consultation system in place.
- Will the threads remain in the body?
-
We use absorbable threads, such as PDO, PCL, and PLLA, which break down into water and carbon dioxide over time, leaving no foreign substances behind in the future.
- When can I start wearing makeup and washing my face?
-
Facial cleansing can be done the same night and makeup can be applied the next day. Needle holes should be covered lightly with concealer and strong cleansing should be avoided for one week.
summary
Thread lift is a lifting treatment that can instantly lift the face line without using a scalpel and improve the quality of the skin by collagen production.
If you are interested in having a thread lift but are not ready to take the plunge, please come for a consultation.
There is no sales or up-selling at our clinic. You are welcome to ask any questions or concerns you may have, and only make an appointment if you feel comfortable with the treatment.
For thread lift, leave it to Smart Skin Clinic.
References
- Jang S H, et al. Dermatol Surg. 2005.
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). "What you need to know about thread lifts."
- Cleveland Clinic. "Thread Lift: What to Expect, Benefits & Complications."
- Lots T C C, et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023.
- Cho Y J, et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021.
- Zhuang Y, et al. Systematic review of thread-lift complications. medRxiv 2024.
- Hifco NEWS. August 2024 "Thread Lift Technique Lifts Sagging and Improves Wrinkles; Medical Journal of Aesthetic Dermatology Describes Versatile Threads; Korean Cosmetic Surgeons and Others Article."
Clinic List
Jimbocho Institute
〒101-0054
EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception), 3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 7F
Business hours: Monday-Friday 11:00-20:00 / Saturday and Sunday 10:00-19:00
Yokohama Institute of Technology
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Bldg. 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Business hours: 10:00-19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a physician supervised by Smart Skin Clinic.
This page was revised and enacted in June 2018. Medical Advertising Guidelines We produce and provide information based on
- Scope of supervision: treatment description, risks and side effects, price labeling
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025