Many patients come to me saying, “Doctor, I want tightening and lift, but I’m not ready for surgery.” In my clinical experience, a thread lift can be an excellent option for selected patients who want subtle rejuvenation with minimal downtime. Let me explain this clearly, without hype.
What exactly is a thread lift?
A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure that lifts and tightens sagging skin using absorbable medical threads.
Non-surgical facelift alternative
Performed under local anaesthesia
Immediate tightening effect
Gradual collagen stimulation
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
A thread lift is about subtle lift and firmness, not dramatic transformation.
What types of threads are used in a thread lift?
PDO, PLA, and PCL threads are used to lift skin and stimulate collagen safely.
i. PDO threads:
Most commonly used
Absorbed in ~6 months
Strong collagen stimulation
ii. Mono threads:
Smooth, no barbs
Improve skin tightness
iii. Cog threads:
Barbed threads
Provide lifting support
iv. Screw threads:
Twisted design
Restore volume in sunken areas
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Thread selection depends on skin thickness and degree of sagging—not trends.
How does a thread lift actually work?
Thread lifts tighten skin mechanically and biologically by stimulating collagen production.
Threads are placed under the skin
Barbs anchor sagging tissue
Immediate lifting effect
Collagen forms around threads over time
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
The real benefit of thread lift comes from collagen, not just tightening.
Which areas can be treated with a thread lift?
Thread lifts are ideal for mild to moderate sagging in specific areas.
Jawline
Cheeks
Brow and forehead
Under-eye area
Neck and lower face
Selected breast lifting cases (post-pregnancy/weight loss)
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Thread lifts work best in early signs of ageing—not advanced sagging.
What is the procedure like?
The procedure involves placing fine threads through tiny entry points with minimal discomfort.
Pre-marking of facial vectors
Local anaesthesia
Threads inserted via fine needles
Barbs self-lock into tissue
No stitches required
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Precision in thread placement determines natural-looking results.
How long do thread lift results last?
Results typically last 12–24 months, depending on skin quality and ageing process.
Immediate tightening visible
Progressive improvement over weeks
Collagen continues forming
Gradual, natural fading
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Good skin care and lifestyle habits help results last longer.
What should you expect after a thread lift?
Recovery is quick, with minimal downtime and early return to routine activities.
Mild swelling or bruising
Temporary tightness sensation
Resume work same or next day
Avoid face massage initially
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Following post-procedure instructions is crucial for smooth healing.
Are thread lifts safe?
Yes, thread lifts have a strong safety profile when done by experienced hands.
Possible temporary effects:
Swelling
Bruising
Mild asymmetry
Tenderness
Rare complications:
Thread migration
Infection
Visible threads
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
Most complications occur due to poor technique, not the procedure itself.
How does a thread lift compare to a surgical facelift?
Thread lifts offer mild, temporary improvement, while facelifts give long-lasting, dramatic results.
Thread lift:
Non-surgical
Minimal downtime
Temporary results
Facelift surgery:
Surgical
Longer recovery
Long-term correction
Dr. Milan Doshi’s Tip:
A thread lift is not a replacement for a facelift—it’s an early intervention option.
Who is an ideal candidate for a thread lift?
Patients with mild sagging, good skin quality, and realistic expectations benefit most.
Early ageing signs
Not ready for surgery
Wants natural enhancement
Understands temporary nature
Conclusion – Final Words from Dr. Milan Doshi
Thread lift is a valuable tool in modern aesthetic medicine—but only when used for the right patient, at the right time, with the right technique. In my clinical experience, patients who view thread lift as maintenance and prevention, not transformation, are the happiest with their results.
If you are noticing early sagging and want a low-risk, non-surgical option, a professional consultation will help determine whether a thread lift is right for you—or whether another approach would serve you better.
