A thread lift is a non-surgical treatment that uses special threads to lift and tighten the skin, giving your face a fresher, younger look. It’s a popular choice for people who want subtle results without going under the knife. But with different types of thread lift techniques available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the main options in simple terms to help you decide what suits you best.
What Are the Different Thread Lift Techniques?
Thread lifts are a popular non-surgical facelift option designed to lift and rejuvenate the skin without the need for invasive surgery.
But what are the different thread lift techniques, and how do they differ? Understanding options like PDO thread lifting, PLLA collagen boosting threads, and the PCL thread lifting technique can help you choose the most effective solution for your aesthetic goals in facial thread rejuvenation.
1. PDO (Polydioxanone) Thread Lift
Material: Polydioxanone
Duration: Dissolves in about 6 months
Benefits:
- Provides an immediate lifting effect
- Stimulates collagen production
- Enhances skin texture and firmness
Best for Treating:
- Cheeks
- Jawline
- Neck
- Eyebrows
Ideal For: Those looking for a subtle, short-term lift and skin tightening.
2. PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) Thread Lift
Material: Poly-L-Lactic Acid
Duration: Stimulates collagen over 12–18 months
Benefits:
- Gradual collagen production
- Improves skin volume and elasticity
- Long-lasting rejuvenation
Best for Treating:
- Mid-face
- Nasolabial folds
- Neck
Ideal For: Individuals seeking long-term anti-aging results with gradual improvements.
3. PCL (Polycaprolactone) Thread Lift
Material: Polycaprolactone
Duration: Can last up to 24 months
Benefits:
- Deep tissue support
- Strong collagen stimulation
- Longer-lasting structural lift
Best for Treating:
- Lower face (jowls, chin)
- Neck
- Body areas (abdomen, thighs)
Ideal For: Those needing a stronger, more durable lifting effect and long-term results.
Choosing the Right Thread Lift Technique
Each thread lift technique is suitable for different purposes, which depend on your goals. Such as
- PDO is best for a fast, noticeable lift.
- PLLA works well for long-term collagen renewal.
- PCL offers deep, lasting support and is suited for more advanced skin laxity.
Consulting with a qualified practitioner can help determine which thread type or combination is best for your unique facial or body contouring needs.
PDO Thread Lift vs Other Techniques
PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are a top choice in non-surgical lifts as they are known for their instant results and minimal downtime. Here’s how they compare to PLLA and PCL thread techniques:
PDO Threads
- Material: Polydioxanone
- Effect: Immediate lifting
- Lasts: 6–12 months
- Recovery: Minimal (back to normal in 1–2 days)
- Best for: Jawline, cheeks, neck
- Bonus: Quick, affordable, and collagen-boosting
PLLA Threads
- Material: Poly-L-Lactic Acid
- Effect: Gradual lift, stronger collagen stimulation
- Lasts: 12–18 months
- Recovery: Mild swelling/bruising
- Best for: Mid-face, smile lines, neck
PCL Threads
- Material: Polycaprolactone
- Effect: Long-term structural lift
- Lasts: Up to 24 months
- Recovery: Slightly longer due to deeper placement
- Best for: Lower face, deep sagging, some body areas
If you are looking for quick results, along with light lifting. PDOs are the go-to move for you. They are perfect if you are looking to thread lift for events such as weddings, trips, etc.
PLLA Thread Lifting Benefits: What Makes It Different?
PLLA Thread lifts shine in the market for their ability to stimulate collagen production over a long period, which makes them suitable for gradual, natural-looking facial rejuvenation.
Key PLLA Thread Lifting Benefits
Collagen Boosting Power
PLLA threads don’t just lift collagen production; they stimulate collagen over time, improving skin elasticity, texture, and volume.
Gradual, Natural Results
Unlike PDO threads, PLLA effects build slowly over weeks and continue improving for 12–18 months.
Longer-Lasting Effects
While PDO threads last around 6–12 months, PLLA threads offer results that can last up to 18 months or more.
Ideal for Volume Restoration
Great for softening deep folds and restoring fullness in areas like the cheeks, nasolabial folds, temples, and neck.
Best for Long-Term Rejuvenation
Perfect for patients looking for subtle, lasting enhancement rather than quick fixes.
In short, PLLA thread lifting benefits include extended collagen stimulation, gradual volume improvement, and longer-lasting results. They are ideal for those seeking a refined and long-term anti-aging solution.
PCL Thread Lifting Technique: How Does It Compare in Results and Duration?
The PCL (Polycaprolactone) thread lifting technique is known for its deep lifting power and long-lasting effects, making it ideal for more advanced skin aging concerns.
What Are PCL Threads?
Made from Polycaprolactone, PCL is a biocompatible, slow-absorbing material which is designed for tissue support and to intensify collagen production.
PCL Thread Lifting Benefits
- Provides more structural support than PDO or PLLA, ideal for deeper sagging and wrinkles.
- Results can last 18–24 months, significantly longer than PDO (6–12 months) or PLLA (12–18 months).
- Boosts collagen steadily over time, improving firmness, elasticity, and volume.
Best Uses for PCL Threads
- Lower face (jowls, chin)
- Neck and jawline definition
- Body areas like thighs, abdomen, or upper arms
- Suitable for mature or aging skin needing deeper correction
In summary, the PCL thread lifting technique is best for those needing long-term, deeper lifting and volume restoration. Compared to PDO and PLLA, PCL offers the most durable and dramatic results, especially for more pronounced signs of aging.
Cost of Thread Lifts: Comparing Techniques by Price and Effectiveness
When considering a non-surgical lift, the most common question to come across people’s minds is regarding the cost of the lift and its Effectiveness. Though an easy answer, it highly depends on factors such as treatment goals, targeted areas, and the type of treatment done, whether PDO, PLLA, or PCL.
What Influences the Cost of Thread Lifts?
- Material Type: Longer-lasting threads like PCL cost more due to their durability and depth.
- Treatment Area: Larger or more complex areas (like the lower face or body) require more threads and skill.
- Number of Sessions: PDO may need more frequent touch-ups, while PLLA and PCL offer longer-lasting effects with fewer visits.
Cost vs. Value: What to Consider
- PDO Threads: Most affordable, ideal for those wanting quick, budget-friendly results.
- PLLA Threads: Mid-range cost, great for collagen stimulation and gradual improvements.
- PCL Threads: Higher upfront cost but best long-term value due to extended results and deeper correction.
Thread Lift Safety Concerns: Are They Safe for All Skin Types?
Generally, thread lifts are safe and effective, but since it’s a cosmetic procedure, the safety is highly dependent upon the skin qualities of the individual getting the lift. Understanding the potential thread lift safety concerns can help determine if it’s the right option for you.
Overall Safety of Thread Lifts
- Minimally invasive with no surgery involved
- Biocompatible materials (PDO, PLLA, PCL) dissolve naturally in the body
- Most people experience only mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness after treatment
Are They Safe for All Skin Types?
Yes, thread lifts are safe for most skin types, including light to medium-dark tones but caution is advised for:
- Very thin or severely sagging skin
- Active skin infections or acne
- Autoimmune or connective tissue disorders
- Highly sensitive or reactive skin (consultation required)
PDO, PLLA, and PCL Threads and Skin Suitability
- PDO Threads: Gentler and widely tolerated; best for mild to moderate lifting
- PLLA Threads: Suitable for aging or thinning skin needing volume and collagen boost
- PCL Threads: Best for advanced sagging; may not be ideal for delicate or highly sensitive skin
Common Side Effects & Safety Precautions
- Mild bruising or swelling
- Temporary puckering or skin tightness
- Infection (rare if sterile technique is used)
- Allergic reactions (extremely rare due to biocompatibility)
Safety Tips:
- Always choose a licensed and experienced practitioner
- Follow all aftercare instructions carefully
- Discuss skin history and concerns during your consultation
Wrapping Up – Which Thread Lift Technique Is Best for You?
Choosing the correct thread lift technique depends on your goals, skin condition, and treatment areas.
- PDO threads offer immediate lifting with minimal downtime, ideal for mild sagging and quicker results.
- PLLA threads focus on gradual collagen stimulation for long-term improvements in volume and skin texture.
- PCL threads provide the deepest and most durable lift, suited for advanced sagging and those seeking longer-lasting results.
When deciding, think about whether you want a fast lift or long-term rejuvenation, and which facial or body areas you wish to target. Consult a licensed professional who can assess your skin and recommend the most suitable technique tailored to your needs.
No matter which you choose, thread lifts offer the advantage of being non-surgical, with minimal downtime and natural-looking results for a refreshed, youthful appearance.
