A few years back, Gwyneth Paltrow made waves for backing a cosmetic procedure called the thread lift. At the time, a lot of surgeons had doubts, pointing to side effects like scarring and infection. But things have changed. Thanks to better techniques and materials, thread lifts are now a real alternative for people who want firmer skin without going under the knife.
Face Lift
Face Lift
Thread lifts are used to treat sagging skin around the face, jawline, and neck. A thin thread with tiny barbs or cones is inserted beneath the skin through a needle. These cones grip the tissue and pull it gently upward, giving the skin a firmer appearance.
What sets today’s version apart from older techniques—especially the kind Paltrow referenced—is the thread material. Earlier versions relied on permanent threads. The newer ones dissolve naturally over time, lowering the risk of infection. Since they don’t remain in the body, bacteria can’t use them as a hiding place. That alone makes the procedure much safer than it used to be.
The treatment is done with local anesthesia, so patients stay awake. Recovery is quick—usually just two or three days of mild swelling or bruising. Results tend to last between 12 and 18 months, depending on the individual.
Thread Lifts vs. Traditional Surgical Face Lifts
Unlike traditional facelifts, thread lifts don’t involve deep cuts or moving facial muscles. That makes them less invasive, which means fewer risks for the patient. But it’s important to understand the limits. Thread lifts give a mild to moderate lift, but they don’t work for everyone.
Facelifts are still the most effective option for major changes. They can reshape the jawline, remove loose neck skin, and turn back the clock in a dramatic way. If someone wants that level of result, surgery is the only option.
That said, not everyone wants—or needs—surgery. For people who want subtle improvement, thread lifts offer a simpler way to refresh their look. They’re FDA-cleared and widely available, making them a popular choice for those who want something less intense.
Why Thread Lifts Are Catching On
That shift in preference explains why thread lifts are gaining popularity in the U.S. More people—both women and men—are turning to treatments that don’t require going under the knife. Some still opt for surgery or injectables, but thread lifts fill the space between the two.
Price is a major factor. A thread lift can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000. In comparison, a facelift can run well over $10,000. For patients not ready to commit to surgery, the thread lift often makes more sense financially and logistically.
How Long Do They Last?
Because the threads dissolve, the lift they provide doesn’t last forever. Most people see results for 12 to 18 months. After that, some choose to repeat the procedure to keep their results going.
Are they Safe?
Generally, yes. When done by trained professionals using modern threads, the procedure is low-risk. That said, side effects can happen. These might include swelling, bruising, or slight asymmetry. In rare cases, threads might move or become noticeable under the skin. But these issues usually go away on their own.
Who Should Consider It?
Thread lifts work best for people in their late 30s to early 50s with mild sagging. If the skin is very loose or aged, a surgical option might be better. Either way, it’s important to speak with a qualified provider to figure out what will give the best outcome.
The Bottom Line
Thread lifts are gaining traction for good reason. They offer a faster, lower-risk option for facial tightening without surgery. While the effects are modest and temporary, that’s often enough for people who just want a fresher look with minimal downtime.
References
Abraham, R. F., DeFatta, R. J., & Williams, E. F., III. (2009). Thread-lift for facial rejuvenation: Assessment of long-term results. Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, 11(3), 178–183. https://doi.org/10.1001/archfacial.2009.10
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2018, July 31). What you need to know about thread lifts. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-thread-lifts
