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Barbed
Thread Lift
A minimally invasive thread lift using barbed PDO or PLLA threads to deliver significant facial lifting and tightening — repositioning sagging skin of the cheeks, jawline, brows, and neck for a naturally refreshed, contoured result.
Mechanical Lifting with
Bidirectional Barbs
A barbed thread lift uses specialised absorbable threads — typically PDO (polydioxanone) or PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) — embedded with tiny bidirectional barbs or cogs. Once inserted beneath the skin via a cannula, the barbs anchor to the subcutaneous tissue and physically reposition sagging skin upward and backward, delivering an immediately visible lift.
Unlike smooth PDO threads that primarily stimulate collagen, barbed threads provide significant structural repositioning — making them the preferred choice for patients with more pronounced sagging of the midface, jowls, brows, or neck who are not yet ready for surgical intervention. As the threads gradually absorb over 6–9 months, they continue to stimulate neocollagenesis, prolonging the lifting effect.
Threads, Sessions & Duration
All data below is sourced directly from our clinical protocol and pricing guide.
What to Expect
Consult & Lifting Assessment
Your dermatologist evaluates the degree of skin laxity, tissue quality, and facial anatomy. A personalised lifting plan is designed — mapping entry points, thread vectors, and the number of barbed threads required per area for optimal repositioning.
Preparation & Local Anaesthesia
The treatment area is cleansed and marked. Local anaesthetic is administered along the thread insertion sites, ensuring the procedure is comfortable throughout. Topical numbing cream is also applied for added comfort.
Thread Insertion — The Lift
Barbed threads are introduced via a fine cannula through micro-entry points. Once positioned in the subcutaneous plane, the threads are tensioned — the barbs grip the tissue and the skin is physically repositioned upward. The procedure typically takes 45–60 minutes.
Immediate Aftercare — Days 1 to 7
Some swelling, bruising, and mild skin dimpling is normal and expected in the first 3–7 days. Patients are advised to sleep on their back, avoid strenuous exercise, and refrain from facial massage or aggressive skincare for 2 weeks post-treatment.
Final Results — Weeks 4 to 8
As initial swelling settles, the true lift becomes apparent. Collagen stimulation triggered by the threads continues to improve skin quality over the following weeks. A review appointment is scheduled at 4–8 weeks to assess the outcome and determine if additional threads would benefit.
Maintenance (18–24 Months)
Results are long-lasting at 18–24 months. A repeat session around this timeframe maintains the lifted contour. Over successive treatments, the cumulative collagen response further improves skin quality and structural support.
Barbed Thread Lift Treatment Cost
Pricing at Rida Radiance is always stated upfront after a clinical assessment. Below is the published range from our official price guide.
Prices are approximate and may vary based on the area treated, degree of laxity, thread brand and type used (PDO / PLLA), and number of threads required per area. A personalised treatment quote will be provided after your in-clinic lifting assessment and consultation.
Common Questions
Barbed threads vs PDO smooth threads — what's the difference?
Smooth PDO threads primarily stimulate collagen and improve skin texture. Barbed threads have cog-like anchors that physically grip and reposition sagging tissue, delivering a far greater degree of visible lift. They are the preferred option when significant correction is needed.
Is a barbed thread lift a surgical procedure?
No. It is a minimally invasive, in-clinic procedure performed under local anaesthesia. There are no incisions, stitches, or general anaesthesia required. Most patients return to daily activities within 3–5 days.
Is it painful?
Local anaesthetic is administered before thread insertion, making the procedure comfortable. Some pressure and tugging sensation may be felt as threads are tensioned. Post-procedure soreness is mild and typically resolves within a few days.
How long until I see the final result?
An immediate repositioning effect is visible on the day of treatment. However, residual swelling can temporarily obscure the outcome. The true, final lift becomes clearly visible at 4–8 weeks once all swelling resolves and collagen stimulation begins.
Am I a suitable candidate?
Barbed thread lifts are ideal for patients aged 35–65 with mild to moderate skin laxity who want a significant lift without surgery. A consultation with our dermatologist will confirm candidacy based on your skin quality, facial anatomy, and lifting goals.
What happens when the threads dissolve?
PDO and PLLA threads are fully absorbable and dissolve naturally over 6–9 months. The lifting effect persists well beyond this — supported by the new collagen scaffolding the threads stimulate. Results typically last 18–24 months in total.
Lift, Define, and
Reclaim Your Contour
Speak with our expert dermatologists to find out how many threads you need and which lifting vector is right for your anatomy. Personalised advice, zero pressure.