How Long Does a Thread Lift Last

December 30, 2025 | 6 mins read
A thread lift generally lasts 12–18 months, depending on the thread material, lifting technique, and facial structure, not just skin quality. Results last longer when the right number of threads, proper depth, and accurate lifting vectors are used. Factors like treatment area, lifestyle habits, and aftercare also influence how well the lift holds. With precise planning and personalized placement, thread lifts can deliver natural, longer-lasting facial definition.
a girl with firm facial skin holding an hourglass on hand

“Doctor, my friend says her jawline looks great after a year. Why is mine sagging in less than six months?”

Many worry when their thread lift results fade sooner than expected. Seeing someone maintain a defined jawline for a year while yours softens in weeks can be confusing. You might wonder, “Is my skin too thick?” or “Am I aging faster?” The truth is, how long a thread lift lasts depends on the procedure, not your skin.

Thread lift results don’t fade randomly. Their duration heavily depends upon key factors like the number of threads used, their insertion depth, and the design of the lift. In this article, you will know the major reasons that some thread lifts fade in a few months while some last for longer than a year. Along with this, you will also learn how a careful approach can extend their lifespan.

What is Thread Lift?

graphical representation of how thread lift tightens skin

A thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses dissolvable PDO, PLLA, or PCL threads to lift sagging skin and stimulate collagen production gently. Unlike surgery, it provides a subtle lift with minimal downtime, making it popular for tightening the jawline, cheeks, brows, and neck. As the threads dissolve, they boost natural collagen, giving firmer, smoother contours over time. It’s an ideal option for people seeking a refreshed, youthful appearance without going through a facelift.

How Long Do Thread Lifts Actually Last?

On average, a thread lift lasts 12 to 18 months, depending on the type of thread used, facial anatomy, and treatment technique. The initial lift comes from the mechanical pull of the threads, while long-term improvement appears as collagen forms around them. Some patients enjoy results for longer than a year when the procedure is done with proper planning, vectors, and support. Maintenance sessions can extend the longevity and keep contours looking naturally firm.

What affects the Longevity of Thread Lift Results?

four replicas of a woman with different graphical signs on face

The longevity of thread lift results primarily depends upon the type of thread, treatment technique, lifestyle, treatment area and post-procedure care.

Type of Thread

The longevity of a thread lift highly depends on which thread material is used: PDO, PLLA, or PCL. PDO threads usually last 6–12 months, offering a lighter lift, while PLLA and PCL threads stay longer, typically 12–18 months, due to stronger structure and slower absorption. Choosing the right thread type based on your skin laxity is key to long-lasting results.

Treatment Technique

A thread lift lasts longer when the practitioner uses enough threads, inserts them at the correct depth, and designs the right lifting vectors. Poor placement reduces support and causes early sagging. A skilled, experienced injector ensures proper anchoring, tension, and tissue engagement, directly impacting how long your thread lift holds.

Lifestyle

Your lifestyle plays a huge role in thread lift longevity. Excessive smoking, weight fluctuations, poor skincare, or constant sun exposure weaken collagen and shorten results. Maintaining a stable weight, following a collagen-friendly skincare routine, and avoiding UV damage help your lift stay firm and defined for a longer period.

Treatment Area

Different areas of the face respond differently to thread lifts. High-movement zones like the mouth or lower face often see results fade sooner, while the cheeks and jawline maintain lifting effects longer. The degree of sagging and tissue heaviness also influences how long your thread lift lasts in each region.

Post-Treatment Care

Good aftercare is essential for maximizing thread lift duration. Avoiding heavy workouts, facial massages, or sleeping on your side during the first weeks helps threads settle properly. Pairing the procedure with collagen-boosting skincare and follow-up maintenance ensures your lift stays natural and long-lasting.

👉👉👉Also Read : How Long Does Juvelook Effect Last?

Why Do Some Threads Fade Too Fast?

an aged woman with wrinkled skin after thread lift getting fade

Thread lift results can fade quickly if the procedure isn’t suited to your facial structure. Many believe early sagging is due to “bad skin” or aging, but the real cause is often technique. Inadequate thread support, incorrect depth, or poorly designed lifting vectors can lead to sagging. If threads can’t support the tissue or are placed too shallowly, the lift loses tension and collapses sooner than expected. These factors, not luck, decide how long a thread lift lasts.

How Many Threads Should You Use?

You can’t rely on online charts for this answer. The right number and placement of threads can only be determined through an in-person assessment. A practitioner needs to feel your skin, evaluate elasticity, and understand the sagging pattern. Each face needs a customized plan, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

How a Personalized Lifting Map Extends Your Thread Lift Results?

a woman with fair skin and graphical lines on face closing eyes front view

Every face has a unique bone structure, skin thickness, and sagging pattern. A personalized lifting map ensures that threads are placed with precision. This tailored plan avoids the risks of generic treatments. When designed according to your natural contours, the lift looks refined and lasts longer.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward revitalizing your face.

 
dr seung jae baek reberry myeongdong

Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu

Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu is the Medical Director of RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam in Seoul, Korea. He treats a large international patient base and was featured in Authority Magazine’s Radiant Skin interview series (July 2026).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Age for a Thread Lift?

The best age for a Thread lift is between 30s to 60s, when mild to moderate signs of aging like sagging skin begin to appear.

Thread lift treatment is not suitable for people with significant sagging skin, a large amount of facial fat and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Though you may feel some tightness, pressure or mild sensations, you don’t feel threads on your face once they have healed.

If a thread lift treatment fails, common problems start to appear, such as pain, swelling, dimpling and asymmetry on the face.

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