Aesthetic Medicine
PDO thread lift
Absorbable threads that subtly lift and support the skin and stimulate collagen over time.
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
- Minimum age: From 18 years
What it is
A PDO thread lift uses fine, absorbable threads made of polydioxanone, a material long used in surgical sutures, placed under the skin to provide subtle lift and support. The threads also prompt the skin to produce collagen along their path as they are gradually absorbed.
It offers a modest, non-surgical lift for early sagging and is not a substitute for a surgical facelift. Results are temporary, since the threads absorb over several months, though the collagen response can give a longer-lasting subtle improvement.
What it can improve
- Early sagging of the lower face, jawline, or brow
- Mild laxity in suitable candidates
- Subtle support and definition
- Gradual skin firmness through collagen stimulation
It does not match the lift of a surgical facelift, does not remove excess skin, and is temporary. It is not suitable for significant sagging, which needs surgery.
Before the procedure
Your degree of laxity is assessed to confirm a thread lift is suitable, since it suits early sagging rather than significant laxity. Your medical history is reviewed and the temporary nature of the result is explained.
During the procedure
Fine absorbable threads are placed under the skin through small entry points and gently positioned to lift 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 subtle lift and gradual firming are achievable in suitable candidates. A thread lift cannot match surgery, cannot remove loose skin, and is temporary, with threads absorbing over months. 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
- Visible or palpable threads, or slight dimpling
- Asymmetry or uneven lift
- Infection, which is uncommon
- Thread extrusion or the need for adjustment, rarely
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
A PDO thread lift may suit people with early, mild sagging who want a non-surgical option. It is especially suitable for those who:
- Have early sagging of the lower face, jawline, or brow
- Want a subtle, 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.
