Thread lifts can sound complicated, so we asked Bina, one of our nurses and our Lead Aesthetic Trainer, to explain the process step by step. In this article you will learn what PDO threads are, how they are placed, how they work over the following months and what to expect in the week after your treatment.
This video uses an AI-generated version of Bina's voice and likeness, made with her consent. The treatment footage is real and filmed with consent.
Bina's explanation in brief
Bina is a UK-registered nurse (NMC) at 65Beauty. In the video she covers the essentials: the material the threads are made from, how they are placed, what they do and what recovery usually involves. Below, we expand on each of those points so you can go into your consultation feeling informed.
What are PDO threads?
PDO stands for polydioxanone. It is a dissolvable material that has long been used in surgical sutures. In a thread lift, very fine PDO threads are placed beneath the skin, where they gradually dissolve over the following months.
Because the threads dissolve, a thread lift is not a permanent treatment. The aim is a gentle lift and support, not a dramatic change.
How the threads are placed
Bina describes the procedure in three stages:
- Numbing the area. The treatment area is numbed first to help keep you as comfortable as possible.
- Placing the threads. The threads are placed beneath the skin using a fine cannula, a slim, blunt-tipped tube.
- Lifting and supporting. Once in position, the threads help to gently lift and support areas such as the cheeks and jawline.
The footage in the video is real thread lift treatment footage from our clinic, filmed with consent.
How they work over time
As Bina explains, the threads do two jobs. In the short term they provide gentle lift and support. Then, as they dissolve over the following months, they also stimulate collagen, one of the proteins that helps give skin its structure.
How long the effect lasts and how noticeable it is will depend on your skin, your age, your lifestyle and the areas treated. Results vary, and your nurse will talk you through realistic expectations.
Who a thread lift may suit
A thread lift may be considered by adults who would like gentle lift and support in areas such as the cheeks or jawline. It is not right for everyone. Skin quality, the degree of laxity, your medical history and certain medications can all affect whether threads are a suitable option.
Your practitioner will check suitability at a consultation. If another approach would suit you better, they will explain why.
What to expect afterwards
Bina is clear about recovery: expect some swelling, tenderness or small bruises for about a week. You may also notice small marks where the cannula entered the skin. These are common and usually settle on their own.
Your practitioner will talk you through aftercare in detail before you leave, including which activities to avoid for a short time and who to contact if you have any concerns.
Common questions
Is a thread lift surgery?
No. Threads are placed beneath the skin through a fine cannula after numbing, rather than through surgical incisions. It is still a medical procedure and always starts with a consultation.
Are the threads permanent?
No. PDO threads dissolve over the following months.
Will people be able to tell?
Some swelling, tenderness or small bruises are common for about a week, so you may wish to plan around any important events.
Who carries out the treatment?
Thread lifts at 65Beauty are carried out by our nurse-led clinical team.
You can read more about thread lifts on our Thread Lifts page.
Book a consultation
If you would like to talk through whether a thread lift is right for you, Bina and our nurses at 39 Kings Road, Brentwood, are here to help. Book a consultation
Results vary. Treatments are for adults aged 18 and over and are subject to a consultation.
Results vary from person to person. Every treatment starts with a consultation with a registered clinician.