Thread Lift

What thread treatments are and how they work

Aesthetic threads are made from an absorbable material such as polydioxanone (PDO), which has been used in surgery for decades. Each thread is placed under the skin with a fine needle or cannula. Over time it is absorbed, while new collagen forms around it.

There are two types. COG threads have tiny barbs that anchor in the tissue under the skin and hold sagging tissue higher mechanically. Mesothreads are smooth and very fine: they do not lift, but support skin density and elasticity, which change over 4–8 weeks. Both types stimulate collagen.

Thread treatments at Melior Clinics

• Lifting COG PDO threads – face, neck and brow lift, 4–16 threads
• Fox Eye – 2–4 COG threads lifting the brow tail and outer eye corner; also available with botulinum toxin injections
• Mesothreads – face, neck, décolleté, eye and lip area, abdomen
• Prices are listed in the price list

What the treatment involves

At the consultation the specialist assesses skin laxity, previous treatments and your goals, and chooses the type and number of threads. With very heavy eyelids, a surgeon's opinion may be more appropriate. Alcohol and over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin and ibuprofen are usually avoided for 48 hours beforehand, as they increase bruising; prescribed medicines are not stopped without a doctor's advice.

Mesothreads and Fox Eye take 30–60 minutes, COG threads 60–90 minutes. Numbing cream or local anaesthetic is used, and most patients describe pressure or a slight pulling sensation. COG threads and Fox Eye are usually single treatments, repeated when needed; mesothreads are often done as a course of 2–3 sessions 4–6 weeks apart.

When threads are not suitable

• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• active inflammation, infection or skin disease in the area;
• clotting disorders or anticoagulant use;
• autoimmune diseases or a recent severe inflammatory illness;
• allergy to the thread material;
• recent surgery in the same area.

The final decision is made by the specialist at the consultation.

After the treatment

Swelling, tightness, tenderness and small bruises are common temporary reactions, usually passing within 1–5 days after mesothreads and 5–10 days after COG threads. Swelling may cause slight asymmetry in the first days, which usually settles. The usual recommendations are:

• no exercise, sauna, sunbeds or facial massage for 5–7 days;
• after COG threads, no strong facial expressions or opening the mouth wide;
• no touching or massaging the area, and sleeping on the back with the head slightly raised;
• no make-up on the treated area for 24–48 hours.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a thread lift last?

A COG thread lift lasts on average 12–18 months, Fox Eye usually up to about 9 months and mesothreads 9–12 months, depending on skin condition, age and lifestyle.

Does a thread lift hurt?

With anaesthesia, discomfort is usually moderate. Most patients describe pressure, slight pulling or pricking, and the area may stay tender for a while.

Thread lift or fillers – what is the difference?

COG threads lift sagging tissue, whereas dermal fillers add volume to specific areas. They address different concerns and can be combined; the plan is agreed at the consultation.

Can threads be seen or move?

Threads placed at the right depth are not usually visible, though slight unevenness may be felt in the first days. Following the aftercare advice reduces the risk of shifting.

The service is provided by Melior Clinics (Star Company OÜ, Estonian Health Board (Terviseamet) licence L04198), Liivalaia 53, Tallinn, Stockmann department store, 5th floor.