Aesthetic Medicine
Aptos thread lift
Barbed absorbable threads that reposition and support sagging tissue for a more defined contour.
Quick Facts
- Treatment time: 30–60 minutes
- Sessions: 1, with maintenance over time
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia to the entry points
- Downtime: A few days of swelling or bruising
- Results visible: Immediate lift, refining over weeks
- Results last: Typically up to a year or more
- Minimum age: From 18 years
What it is
An Aptos thread lift uses absorbable threads with fine barbs along their length, which grip the tissue to reposition and support areas of mild to moderate sagging, such as the cheeks, jawline, or neck. Like other absorbable threads, they also stimulate collagen as they are absorbed.
The barbs allow a slightly stronger repositioning effect than smooth threads, but it remains a non-surgical treatment with a modest, temporary result. It is not a replacement for a surgical lift where sagging is significant.
What it can improve
- Mild to moderate sagging of the cheeks, jawline, or neck
- Definition of the lower face contour
- Subtle repositioning of descended tissue
- Gradual firmness through collagen stimulation
It does not match a surgical lift, does not remove excess skin, and is temporary as the threads absorb. It is not suitable for significant sagging.
Before the procedure
Your degree of laxity is assessed to confirm suitability, since threads suit mild to moderate sagging rather than significant laxity. Your medical history is reviewed and the temporary result is explained.
During the procedure
Barbed absorbable threads are placed under the skin through small entry points and drawn to reposition and support the tissue. The entry points are numbed for comfort.
After the procedure
Swelling, bruising, and a tight or pulling sensation are common for a few days. Strenuous activity, facial massage, and wide mouth movements are limited for a short period as advised while the threads settle.
Results: what it can and cannot achieve
A repositioned, more defined contour is achievable in suitable candidates, with a slightly stronger effect than smooth threads. It cannot match surgery, cannot remove loose skin, and is temporary. Results vary, and maintenance is needed to sustain them.
Possible risks and complications
Thread lifts are generally safe in trained hands, but they carry some risks. Possible risks include:
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
- Puckering, dimpling, or visible threads
- Asymmetry or uneven lift
- Thread migration or extrusion, rarely
- Infection, which is uncommon
Thread lifts are avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding and over areas of active skin infection. A careful assessment ensures the degree of laxity is suitable.
Who it suits
An Aptos thread lift may suit people with mild to moderate sagging who want a non-surgical option. It is especially suitable for those who:
- Have mild to moderate sagging of the cheeks, jawline, or neck
- Want a non-surgical lift with little downtime
- Understand the result is modest and temporary
- Are in good general health and not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have realistic expectations
It may not suit people with significant sagging or excess skin, who are better served by surgery. Your clinician advises honestly on whether it will help.
Why Skulpturkliniken
Aesthetic medicine at Skulpturkliniken
Non-surgical treatments at Skulpturkliniken are carried out by a physician after an individual assessment, within a medical, surgeon-led clinic. That means careful assessment, a conservative approach, and the reassurance of expert support behind every treatment.
Natural, balanced results
The aim is a refreshed, natural result that enhances your features rather than changing them. Treatments are planned with restraint, because subtle and well-judged almost always looks better than overdone.
The reassurance of a surgeon-led clinic
Working within a medical, surgeon-led clinic means honest advice about what a non-surgical treatment can and cannot do, and when a different treatment, or none at all, would serve you better. Your safety and a natural result always come first.
Individualized assessment
Every treatment begins with a proper assessment. We evaluate:
Your concerns and what you want to achieve
Skin quality, facial structure, or the treatment area
Medical history, medications, and suitability
Whether this treatment, another, or none is best for you
Realistic expectations and a plan over time
Safety, precision, and long-term care
Safety is central to every step of your care. Your treatment includes:
Specialist consultation with the treating clinician
Detailed assessment and individualized treatment planning
Careful evaluation of whether the treatment is right for you
Pre-treatment preparation guidance
Treatment in a safe and controlled clinical environment
Scheduled follow-up where appropriate
Direct access to the clinical team
Digital medical records through Adoreal®
Patient insurance through Folksam
Long-term aftercare support
Frequently asked questions
Trust The Adoreal Experience
The Adoreal Platform gives you complete control of your aesthetic journey. You will be guided throughout your entire process, from consultation to recovery, ensuring an exceptional experience for you as a patient.
You are in control
Complete access to your information, health records and previous journeys.
Unmatched predictability
Manage your expectations with our questionnaire Silhouette, and visualize your ideal outcomes with 3D simulation.
Trusted step-by-step guide
From bookings to payments, logistics and after care, Adoreal will be your companion.
Empowered safety measures
Complimentary health check, careful monitoring, and meticulous preparation.
