Complete Thread Lift Comparison Guide for Anyone Considering a Non-Surgical Lift in 2026

Many people in the Netherlands want a fresher look without going through surgery. A full facelift often feels too intense and expensive .This is why thread lifts have become so popular going into 2026. They offer a small lift, less downtime and results that look natural. But before choosing this treatment, it helps to understand how it works, what the options are and how it compares to other non-surgical methods.

This guide breaks everything down using real facts and trusted sources. It also includes key terms people search for, like PDO thread lift, non surgical facelift, collagen stimulation and huidverslapping. The goal is to help you understand what a thread lift can and cannot do so you can decide if it fits your skin goals.

What a Thread Lift Really Is

A thread lift is a cosmetic treatment that uses thin, dissolvable threads to lift sagging skin. Doctors place these threads under the skin using a small needle. The threads grab the tissue which gives an instant but gentle lift. Over time, the threads also trigger collagen stimulation which makes skin firmer even after the threads dissolve.

The Cleveland Clinic states that most thread lifts use PDO, PLLA, or PCL threads. These are medical-grade materials that safely break down inside the body. PDO threads usually last 6 to 12 months, while PLLA and PCL can last longer because they take more time to dissolve. This fact comes from the Cleveland Clinic’s 2024 cosmetic procedure guide.

Common treatment areas include the cheeks, jawline, neck, and brows. Many people choose it to fix skin sagging in the midface or to sharpen the jawline without surgery.

Why People Choose Thread Lifts in 2026

Thread lifts remain popular because they offer a balance between results and recovery. Healthline’s 2024 review explains that people love the subtle but instant lift. The collagen boost that follows adds long-term improvement. Unlike a surgical facelift, you do not need to take weeks off work.

A few clear benefits stand out:

• Short treatment time, often 30 to 45 minutes

• Local anesthesia instead of full sedation

• Light swelling or bruising, usually gone in a few days

• Natural-looking results

• No major scars

Studies shared by the National Library of Medicine in 2023 show that collagen continues to form months after treatment. This means skin texture and firmness improve even when the lift is mild.

The Different Types of Thread Lifts

Not all thread lifts work the same. The thread material makes a big difference.

1. PDO Threads

PDO stands for Polydioxanone. Doctors have used this material for years in surgical stitches. It dissolves the fastest, usually within 6 to 12 months. PDO threads work well for soft lifting and improving skin texture.

2. PLLA Threads

PLLA stands for Poly L Lactic Acid. The Sculptra filler uses the same material. These threads last longer and create a stronger collagen response. According to a review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, PLLA may hold results for 12 to 24 months.

3. PCL Threads

PCL stands for Polycaprolactone. They dissolve the slowest but also stimulate collagen for the longest time. Doctors often use them for stronger lifts or deeper huidversteviging.

Choosing the right thread depends on your goals, skin thickness, and how long you want results to last.

If you’re considering booking a consultation, you can find more practical information on the official page here: draadlift .

What Results You Can Expect

A thread lift does not replace a full surgical facelift. A surgical lift removes extra skin and tightens deeper tissues. A thread lift gently lifts loose areas but cannot create dramatic changes.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says the results stay visible for 12 to 18 months for most people. Stronger threads may last longer when combined with good skincare and treatments like fillers or huidverbetering therapies.

Most people like thread lifts because the results look soft and natural. You look refreshed, not pulled.

Risks and Safety

Thread lifts are generally safe when performed by trained doctors. But like any treatment, there are risks.

Kitchener Waterloo MediSpa lists the most common mild side effects:

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Light pain

• A pulling sensation when smiling

A 2023 meta-analysis in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that serious complications are rare and mostly linked to poor technique. This is why choosing an experienced cosmetic doctor is important.

Thread Lift vs Surgical Facelift

People often compare the two. The biggest difference is how much lifting each one can do. A facelift works deeper and gives greater changes that can last for years. A thread lift is better for mild to moderate sagging.

Here is a simple comparison:

Topic	Thread Lift	Surgical Facelift
Lift Strength	Mild to moderate	Strong, dramatic
Downtime	Few days	Several weeks
Anesthesia	Local	General or sedation
Scarring	None or tiny needle marks	Incisions around ears
Cost	Lower	Higher
Best For	Early aging	Advanced aging

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons explains that many patients start with thread lifts when signs of aging first appear, then consider surgery later.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate

Thread lifts work best if you have mild sagging in the cheeks, jawline, or neck. People in their 30s to 50s usually see the best results. If the skin is very loose, threads may not give enough change.

Good candidates also:

• Have realistic expectations

• Want something non-surgical

• Can handle small side effects

• Want natural-looking results

If someone wants a big transformation, doctors often recommend surgery instead.

How a Thread Lift Procedure Works

A thread lift is a simple appointment. First, the doctor marks where the threads will go. Then they apply local anesthesia to numb the area. A thin needle or cannula is used to place the thread under the skin. When all threads are in place, the doctor adjusts them to create a lift.

Merchant City Medical Group explains that the full process usually takes under an hour. Many people return to work the same day.

You may feel some tightness for a week, but this fades as the skin adjusts.

Recovery and Aftercare Tips

Recovery is usually light. Doctors often give simple advice:

• Avoid heavy exercise for a week.

• Sleep on your back.

• Do not rub or press the treated area.

• Keep the skin clean and moisturized.

Swelling and bruising fade in a few days. Collagen continues to grow for months, which improves the final result.

Thread Lifts Compared to Other Non-Surgical Options

Some people look at other skin tightening methods like HIFU, radiofrequency, or laser treatments. These options improve skin texture and firmness but do not give a physical lift like threads. Thread lifts fill the gap between skincare treatments and full surgery.

A 2024 review from ENSoul Clinic explains that combining threads with other treatments can give stronger results. Many people mix them with fillers or skin boosters for extra improvement.

Should You Choose a Thread Lift in 2026?

A thread lift is a good choice if you want a small but noticeable lift without surgery. It fits people with light to moderate huidverslapping, especially in the midface or jawline. The results look natural, and recovery is fast.

Using trusted facts from sources like Cleveland Clinic, Healthline, and peer reviewed studies, the evidence shows that thread lifts remain a safe and effective non surgical option when done by skilled hands.

If you want something simple, quick, and natural, a thread lift can be a great step. If you want a dramatic change, a facelift may be better. The key is to match the treatment to your goals.