Are Thread Lifts Worth the Money?

Hi there! Dr. Erin Lucie here, and today we’re talking about one of the hottest topics in aesthetics: thread lifts. Are they worth it? Let me give you the inside scoop on this non-surgical facelift alternative that’s been making waves.

At Luminate Clinic, we offer InstaLift and Miracu PDO threads, and while we love the results threads can achieve, we also know they’re not for everyone. In fact, we turn down about 50% of the requests for thread lifts because the key to success is ensuring you’re the right candidate. So let’s break it all down.

What is a Thread Lift?

A thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses dissolvable threads to lift and reposition sagging tissue. It’s essentially a two-step process:

1. Repositioning Tissue: The threads are inserted under the skin, lifting the fascia, fatty tissue, and lower layers of the skin. Once the thread is in place, we pull it back to lift the tissue from areas like the jowls or cheeks to the upper face or hairline. This is where thread lifts truly shine—repositioning the tissue to a more youthful location.
2. Collagen Stimulation: Over the next few months, the threads dissolve, but not before stimulating collagen production. This new collagen keeps the tissue in place and improves skin tightness and elasticity over time.

What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for a Thread Lift?

The first step to determining if a thread lift is worth it for you is scheduling a consultation. During this appointment, we’ll feel and move your skin around to assess if threads are the right option. Thread lifts work best for:

• Mild to Moderate Sagging: Threads are ideal for repositioning tissue in patients with mild to moderate sagging, especially in the jowls and midface.
• Patients Seeking Non-Surgical Options: If you’re not ready for surgery or aren’t a candidate for it, threads can deliver impressive lifting results without going under the knife.
• Patience for Results: I tell my patients, “You’ll hate me the first two weeks, like me at month three, and love me at month six.” Thread lifts take time to deliver full results, but trust me, they’re worth the wait.

How is a Thread Lift Different from Surgery?

With a surgical facelift, the surgeon pulls the skin back, removes the excess, and stitches it into place. In a thread lift, the skin is pulled back and temporarily bunched together. It takes time for the skin to settle and for collagen to form, smoothing things out naturally.

Because threads don’t involve cutting or stitches, the recovery is much quicker. However, you might experience mild swelling, bruising, or puckering in the first couple of weeks as your skin adjusts.

Preparing for Your Thread Lift

For the best results, we often recommend a series of Scarlet RF or TempSure treatments about six months before your thread lift. These skin-tightening treatments stimulate collagen production and create a firmer foundation for the threads to work their magic. Think of it as laying the groundwork for your lifted, rejuvenated look.

The Results and Longevity of Thread Lifts

The results of a thread lift last about 18 months, and we recommend scheduling your second lift 18-24 months after your first. The good news? Your second thread lift is typically even better than your first! By that time, you’ve already built up collagen from your initial treatment, and we usually need fewer threads to achieve the desired results.

The Cost of Thread Lifts

Thread lifts can cost several thousand dollars, depending on the number of threads needed and the areas being treated. While this might sound like a lot, it’s still half the price of surgery, making it a more affordable option for many patients seeking a lifted, youthful look without the downtime of surgery.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Provider

Not all threads are created equal, and not all providers have the necessary training and expertise to deliver great results. Cheap threads often dissolve or break prematurely, leading to disappointing outcomes. That’s why it’s crucial to go to someone who:

• Is trained and certified in thread lifts.
• Uses high-quality threads like InstaLift or Miracu PDO threads.
• Has a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and how to achieve natural-looking results.

At Luminate Clinic, we pride ourselves on providing the best care and using only the highest-quality threads that lift and last.

Who Should Skip Threads?

Thread lifts are not a cure-all. If you have significant skin laxity or are looking for dramatic results, surgery might be a better option for you. Additionally, threads don’t address skin tone or texture, so you may need complementary treatments like laser resurfacing, PICO Sure Pro or chemical peels to achieve an overall glow.

Why We Love Threads

Threads are worth it for the right patient. They’re perfect for people who:

• Want a non-surgical facelift.
• Have realistic expectations and are willing to wait for results.
• Are looking for a natural, subtle lift rather than a dramatic change.

When done correctly, threads deliver beautiful, long-lasting results that boost confidence and help you look like the best version of yourself.

Final Thoughts

Thread lifts aren’t just a treatment—they’re an investment in yourself. If you’re ready for a non-surgical solution to sagging tissue, and you have the patience to let the results unfold over time, threads might just be your perfect match. Schedule a consultation with us at Luminate Clinic to find out if you’re a good candidate. Let’s create a customized plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Because when it comes to looking and feeling your best, you’re always worth it!