The History and Evolution of Thread Lifting in Aesthetics

The History and Evolution of Thread Lifting in Aesthetics

Introduction

At Midas Wellness Hub, we believe that beauty is timeless, but skin often needs a little help to reflect that truth. Over the decades, aesthetic medicine has evolved to offer safer, more effective, and minimally invasive treatments that restore youthful radiance without the risks of surgery. One such innovation is thread lifting, often referred to as the “lunchtime facelift.”

Thread lifting has a fascinating history. From its experimental beginnings with permanent threads to the refined, absorbable mono and PDO threads used today, it has transformed into a trusted solution for skin tightening and rejuvenation. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the history and evolution of thread lifting in aesthetics, and how Midas Wellness Hub brings these advanced techniques to clients who want natural, lasting results.

1. The Early Days of Thread Lifting

The concept of thread lifting started in the late 20th century, when cosmetic surgeons searched for alternatives to invasive facelifts.

The earliest procedures used non-absorbable threads, such as polypropylene sutures, to mechanically lift sagging skin.

These permanent threads were inserted beneath the skin to create a lifting effect, particularly for the cheeks, jawline, and brows.

However, complications such as asymmetry, thread migration, and unnatural results limited their popularity.

Even so, the idea was revolutionary, it introduced the world to the possibility of skin lifting without surgery.

2. A Breakthrough: The APTOS Technique (1990s)

In the 1990s, thread lifting experienced its first real breakthrough with the introduction of the APTOS thread technique by Dr. Marlen Sulamanidze, a Georgian plastic surgeon.

APTOS, meaning “Anti-Ptosis” (ptosis = drooping), used barbed non-absorbable threads to better anchor sagging tissue.

This approach allowed doctors to create a more effective lift than smooth sutures could provide.

It gained popularity in Europe and Asia, where patients were eager for non-surgical anti-aging solutions.

The APTOS method marked a turning point, it proved thread lifting could work, but it also highlighted the need for safer, more biocompatible materials.

3. The Shift to Absorbable Threads (Mid-2000s)

While permanent threads offered some benefits, they came with long-term complications. This led to the introduction of absorbable threads, a game-changer in aesthetics.

PDO Threads: The Modern Era Begins

By the mid-2000s, PDO (Polydioxanone) threads were introduced. PDO is a biodegradable material long used in medical sutures.

These threads naturally dissolve in the skin over 6–8 months.

As they dissolve, they stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, leaving behind firmer, tighter skin.

Unlike permanent threads, PDO threads offered natural results, fewer complications, and regenerative benefits, making them a gold standard in thread lifting.

4. Different Types of Threads: Customized Results

As thread lifting evolved, different designs were created to address specific needs:

Mono Threads

• Smooth absorbable threads.
• Best for skin tightening and improving fine lines.
• Commonly used under the eyes, around the neck, and for overall skin quality.

Cog Threads

• Barbed absorbable threads.
• Anchor into tissues for both lifting and tightening.
• Ideal for jawline definition, cheek lift, and eyebrow elevation.

Screw (Tornado) Threads

• Twisted threads that provide volume restoration.
• Useful for hollow areas like the cheeks or temples.

At Midas Wellness Hub, we often combine different thread types in a tailored approach, ensuring patients receive results that match their skin condition and goals.

5. Advances in Technique and Safety

Thread lifting is not only about the threads themselves but also about the techniques used by practitioners. Over the years, techniques have been refined for safety and precision:

Cannula Insertion: Instead of needles, flexible cannulas reduce the risk of bruising and vascular injury.

Vector Lifting: Threads are placed along natural support structures of the face, ensuring a more natural lift.

Combination Therapy: Threads are often combined with treatments like dermal fillers or Botox for enhanced rejuvenation.

At Midas Wellness Hub, patient safety and natural results are our top priorities, which is why we use only the most advanced insertion methods and premium-quality threads.

6. Thread Lifting Around the World

Different regions have influenced the evolution of thread lifting:

• South Korea: The global leader in thread lift innovation, particularly with PDO mono threads, where treatments are widely performed and continuously improved.
• Europe: Early adopters of barbed and cog threads, pioneering the shift toward minimally invasive lifting techniques.
• United States: Initially hesitant, but growing demand for non-surgical treatments has led to a surge in thread lifting popularity in recent years.

Today, thread lifting is one of the fastest-growing non-surgical procedures worldwide, embraced by patients looking for subtle, natural enhancements.

7. Benefits of Modern Thread Lifting

Modern thread lifting, as performed at Midas Wellness Hub, offers a wide range of benefits:

• Minimally Invasive: No need for scalpels or general anesthesia.
• Quick Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
• Natural Results: Skin improves gradually, avoiding the “overdone” look.
• Collagen Boost: Threads stimulate natural skin repair and tightening.
• Customizable: Different thread types can be combined for a personalized treatment plan.

8. Challenges and Considerations

Thread lifting, while effective, also has limitations:

• Best suited for mild to moderate sagging, not severe skin laxity.
• Requires a skilled practitioner to avoid side effects such as asymmetry or bruising.

At Midas Wellness Hub, we set realistic expectations for every client and ensure treatments are performed with precision and care.

9. The Future of Thread Lifting

The evolution of thread lifting is ongoing, with innovations constantly improving outcomes:

• Hybrid Threads: Designed to combine lifting with regenerative benefits.
• Longer-lasting Absorbable Materials: Research aims to extend results beyond two years.
• Regenerative Medicine: Combining threads with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or stem cell therapies for enhanced collagen stimulation.

Thread lifting is moving toward a future where results last longer, look even more natural, and promote skin health at a deeper level.

Why Choose Midas Wellness Hub?

At Midas Wellness Hub, thread lifting is more than just a treatment, it’s an art. We specialize in:

Expert Practitioners: Highly trained in advanced PDO and mono thread techniques.

Premium Materials: Using only certified, biocompatible threads.

Personalized Plans: Treatments tailored to your facial structure, skin condition, and goals.

Holistic Care: Combining aesthetic science with wellness for results that enhance both beauty and confidence.

Conclusion

The journey of thread lifting, from permanent barbed sutures in the 1980s to today’s advanced PDO and mono threads, is a remarkable story of medical progress. What once seemed experimental is now one of the safest and most effective non-surgical solutions for skin rejuvenation.

At Midas Wellness Hub, we are proud to bring this innovation to our clients. Whether you’re looking for subtle skin tightening with mono threads or a more defined lift with cog threads, we ensure results that are natural, safe, and tailored to you.

Rediscover youthful, radiant skin with the expertise of Midas Wellness Hub. Book your consultation today and experience the future of non-surgical facelifts.

📍 Visit us in Mumbai or connect with us online to learn more about our advanced aesthetic treatments.