Thread Lifting Technologies 

Thread lifting is a method of lifting and strengthening facial tissues without a scalpel. Thin threads are inserted under the skin through tiny punctures, mechanically lifting sagging areas, while the thread material additionally stimulates the production of the patient’s own collagen.

At Iskusstvo Clinic, two proven formats are used: Intrarich reinforcing threads made of polydioxanone for treating pronounced ptosis, and Lead Fine Lift mesothreads for improving skin quality and tone. The choice of format is always made by the doctor after examination, based on the condition of the skin, the degree of age-related changes, and the specific goal of the patient.

Thread lifting in Moscow is in demand as an alternative to surgical lifting in cases of moderate changes. The procedure takes 30–60 minutes, is performed under local anesthesia, and does not require inpatient recovery. It is important to understand that thread lifting and surgery do not compete with each other, but complement each other. In cases of significant ptosis and excess skin, surgery provides a more stable and pronounced result. Precisely because plastic surgeons work at Iskusstvo Clinic, the patient receives an honest answer as to whether threads can solve the concern or not.

What Is Polydioxanone and Why Is It Used?

Polydioxanone, or PDO, is a synthetic surgical material that has been used for decades in vascular and cardiac surgery for suturing. It is well studied, biocompatible, and safe: the body fully absorbs it within 4–6 months without leaving any residual inclusions.

This combination of good tolerability, predictable absorption, and the ability to stimulate collagen production around the thread has made polydioxanone one of the main materials for thread procedures in cosmetology. According to clinical observations, collagen proliferation around PDO threads continues for several months after their complete absorption, supporting the effect of the procedure.

Intrarich Reinforcing Threads for a Pronounced Lifting Effect

Intrarich threads are a Korean system of reinforcing polydioxanone threads with directional barbs, cones, or teeth that firmly anchor in the tissues and create mechanical traction. Unlike smooth mesothreads, reinforcing threads are designed specifically to lift sagging tissues: the cheekbones, lower third of the face, jowls, neck, and jawline.

The mechanism is dual. Immediately after insertion, the threads mechanically lift the tissues along a defined vector, and this effect is visible on the day of the procedure. Then, while the thread is being absorbed, a collagen framework forms around it, supporting the result for a long time after the material has fully dissolved.

The result is lifted, more defined facial contours, reduced cheek sagging, and improvement of the facial oval.

The effect of Intrarich reinforcing threads usually lasts from 12 to 24 months. The duration is individual and depends on the initial skin condition, age, lifestyle, and the number of threads inserted. The procedure combines well with botulinum therapy, biorevitalization, and contour correction. With a combined approach, the result is more expressive and lasts longer.

Lead Fine Lift Mesothreads for Reinforcement and Skin Quality Improvement

Lead Fine Lift is a Korean polydioxanone mesothread system. Mesothreads are thin, smooth or slightly structured threads of small diameter that are inserted in larger numbers evenly across the treatment area. Their purpose is not so much to “lift” the tissues, but to create a dense collagen framework: mesothreads act as reinforcement for the skin, improving its tone, elasticity, and structure.

Lead Fine Lift mesothreads are used to improve the tone of the skin of the face, neck, and décolleté, correct fine wrinkles, reduce visible pores, and provide overall rejuvenation. They are also used in cellulite treatment and for body skin tightening.

The effect of mesothreads is softer and more gradual than that of reinforcing threads: the skin becomes denser and fresher over several weeks as collagen production increases.

The number of threads is selected individually by the doctor depending on the treatment area and the goal. The clinic’s price list includes three ranges: from 1 to 20 threads, from 21 to 50 threads, and from 51 to 100 threads, with a proportional reduction in cost for larger volumes. This makes the procedure suitable both for working with a single area and for full-face reinforcement.

Who Is Thread Lifting Suitable For?

Ptosis of facial soft tissues: sagging cheeks, blurred facial oval, drooping corners of the mouth

Moderate double chin

Reduced skin tone and elasticity without pronounced excess skin

Desire to strengthen the skin as a preventive measure before pronounced ptosis appears

Maintenance of results after surgical lifting

Patients aged 30–55 with moderate age-related changes who are not ready for surgery

How the Procedure Is Performed

Consultation

The doctor examines the face at rest and in motion, including during speech and smiling. The degree of ptosis, skin thickness, and quality of the subcutaneous tissue are assessed.

The doctor determines which threads are suitable: Intrarich for mechanical lifting, Lead Fine Lift for reinforcement, or a combination of both. Marking is performed on the face in a seated position, taking gravitational tissue displacement into account.

Anesthesia

An anesthetic cream is applied to the treatment areas and left for 30–40 minutes. If necessary, infiltration anesthesia with a fine needle is used for more comfortable thread insertion in sensitive areas.

The procedure is usually much easier to tolerate than tooth extraction.

Thread Insertion

The thread comes preloaded in a needle or cannula. Through a tiny puncture, the doctor passes the instrument under the skin along the calculated vector, fixes the thread, and creates the required tension.

Punctures of 1–2 mm do not require sutures and heal on their own within 1–2 days.

The duration is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of threads and treatment areas. After the procedure, the patient goes home.

After the Procedure: What to Expect

During the first 3–7 days, mild swelling, bruising at the puncture sites, and a slight feeling of tension may occur. These symptoms resolve on their own.

Mild asymmetry during the first 1–2 weeks is normal while the tissues adapt to the threads. It evens out as the reaction subsides.

Restrictions during the first 2 weeks: avoid sauna and steam bath, do not have active facial massage, sleep on your back, and avoid intense physical activity. Decorative cosmetics can be used the next day.

The final result is assessed after 3–4 weeks, once swelling has subsided and the initial tissue adaptation is complete.

How Long Does the Result Last?

With Intrarich reinforcing threads, the result lasts on average 12–24 months. With Lead Fine Lift mesothreads, it lasts 12–18 months.

After the threads dissolve, part of the effect remains due to the formed collagen framework. The doctor can estimate the expected duration during the consultation. It depends on the patient’s age, skin condition, number of threads, and lifestyle.

Thread lifting does not stop the natural aging process. Once the effect decreases, the procedure can be repeated.

Contraindications

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Acute inflammatory skin conditions in the insertion area

Oncological diseases

Blood clotting disorders or anticoagulant therapy

Autoimmune diseases in the acute stage

Tendency to form hypertrophic scars and keloids

Significant excess skin, in which case surgical lifting is preferable

The final decision on whether the procedure can be performed is made by the doctor after examination during the consultation.

Thread Lifting or Surgery: How to Choose

Thread lifting works well for moderate ptosis without pronounced excess skin. As a rule, this applies to patients aged 35–55.

In cases of significant tissue sagging, pronounced fat herniation, and excess skin, thread lifting will provide only a partial and less stable result. In such cases, surgical lifting, such as SMAS lift or Deep Plane facelift, is much more effective.

At Iskusstvo Clinic, plastic surgeons perform both thread lifting and surgical procedures. The doctor will not recommend threads when surgery is needed, and will not recommend surgery when threads are sufficient. The patient receives an honest answer, not advertising of one method.

Why Choose Iskusstvo Clinic

Surgical Perspective in Cosmetology

Thread procedures at the clinic are performed by doctors with surgical training. They know the anatomy of facial nerves, vessels, and muscles at the level of the operating field.

This is especially important when inserting threads in complex areas, such as the mandibular angle, preauricular region, and neck, where the risk of complications increases significantly if the technique is incorrect.

Management of Complications

If something goes wrong after thread lifting, the clinic has specialists who can correct the situation, including surgical removal of threads if necessary.

Honest Prognosis

The doctor does not promise the result of surgical lifting from an office-based procedure. At the same time, expectations are not understated: with proper patient selection, thread lifting provides a noticeable and pleasing result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between Intrarich Threads and Lead Fine Lift Mesothreads?

Intrarich are reinforcing threads with barbs for mechanical lifting. Their purpose is to lift sagging tissues and create a defined contour. They are inserted in smaller numbers and work as a lift.

Lead Fine Lift are thinner and smoother mesothreads. They are inserted in larger numbers evenly across the area. Their purpose is to improve skin tone and density and create a collagen framework.

The doctor may recommend one format or a combination of both depending on the situation.

Is Thread Insertion Painful?

With anesthetic cream, the procedure is tolerable. The main discomfort occurs during punctures and when tension is felt as the thread is fixed.

Most patients describe the procedure as moderately unpleasant, but quite tolerable. In cases of high sensitivity, infiltration anesthesia is added.

Can Threads Be Seen Under the Skin?

With proper technique, no. The threads are placed in the subcutaneous layer at a sufficient depth.

In patients with very thin or atrophic skin, small irregularities may sometimes be felt during the first 1–2 weeks. As the tissues adapt, this usually resolves.

Can Thread Lifting Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Yes. Thread lifting combines well with botulinum therapy, usually after 2 weeks, biorevitalization, usually after 2 weeks, and contour correction, usually after 3–4 weeks.

Hardware-based procedures, such as ultrasound lifting and laser rejuvenation, can usually be performed after 4–6 weeks. The doctor will create a specific plan during the consultation.

What Happens When the Threads Dissolve?

The thread fully dissolves within 4–6 months. By this time, a collagen framework has already formed around it, partially supporting the effect for several more months.

Then the tissues gradually return to their natural age-related condition, but with an additional collagen benefit. If desired, the procedure can be repeated after 12–24 months.