
Possible Risks and Side Effects of Thread Lifts
Thread lifts are sometimes nicknamed the “lunchtime facelift” because they’re quick, minimally invasive, and require very little downtime. For many people, that makes them a highly appealing alternative to surgery.
But like any medical aesthetics procedure, thread lifts are not risk-free. While the majority of patients experience only mild, short-term side effects, it’s important to know what could happen and how to minimize risks.
Common Risks of Thread Lifts
Ranked from most common to most rare, here are the potential side effects of PDO thread lifts. These apply regardless of whether PDO or other thread materials are used.
Bruising
Bruising is the most common side effect, caused by your body’s natural reaction to the insertion of threads into the dermal layers. For some patients it appears as faint discolouration; others may notice more pronounced bruises.
Ways to reduce risk:
- Avoid alcohol or blood-thinning medications before your appointment
- Schedule treatments away from your menstrual cycle
- Apply a cold compress after the procedure
Even with precautions, bruising may still occur. But it typically fades within a few days.
Swelling
About two-thirds of patients experience some swelling. For most, it resolves within 12–24 hours. In rare cases, it may persist for up to a week.
Swelling is simply your tissue responding to the threads. Applying an ice pack every hour for the first 12 hours can help minimize it.
Pain or Discomfort
Thread lifts are far less invasive than surgery, but needles and cannulas are still used. Mild discomfort may appear once local anesthetic wears off, but usually subsides within a few days.
At our clinic, we provide pain management strategies and, if needed, a short prescription to ensure comfort during recovery.
Temporary Jaw Tightness
Occasionally, patients report difficulty opening wide or chewing strongly in the first 24–48 hours. This is related to swelling or tightness from the sutures.
It’s not as severe as it sounds — normal jaw function returns quickly, and soreness rarely lasts more than a week. If you notice persistent symptoms, let us know so we can guide your aftercare.
Thread Migration
In rare cases, a thread may shift under the skin. This occurs more often in patients with thinner tissue, high laxity, or lower collagen production.
Types of migration include:
- Local release - a single area loses lift, which we can fix with another thread
- Expression-dependent - only noticeable when smiling or moving. Often left in place since dissolving threads will stimulate collagen.
- Visible thread - very rare; if apparent at rest, we may remove it or use laser/heat to speed up the dissolution.
Infection (Very Rare)
Infections are uncommon but possible. They typically appear within 7–10 days at the insertion site, resembling a whitehead or pimple.
Most infections respond quickly to a short course of antibiotics if caught early. Severe cases requiring thread removal are extremely rare, especially with proper aftercare.
How Common Are Complications?
Most side effects of thread lifts are mild, temporary, and self-resolving. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by experienced providers using sterile technique.
How to Minimize Your Risks
Choosing a qualified clinic and following pre- and post-care instructions make the biggest difference. Tips include:
- Select a provider with extensive experience in medical aesthetics and PDO threads
- Disclose medications, health conditions, or past procedures during consultation
- Follow all aftercare recommendations (avoid rubbing or massaging the area, etc)
If you're ready to move forward, feel free to visit our main service page on thread lift procedures in Calgary.
Are Thread Lifts Safe?
Yes! Thread lifts are considered safe when performed by trained professionals, but like any procedure they come with potential side effects. For a medical overview of PDO thread lifts, you can also review guidance from the Cleveland Clinic. They are highly desired because they offer a minimally invasive way to lift and contour the lower face, with a short recovery period. But like any treatment, it’s important to be well informed about any potential risks before deciding if it’s right for you.
FAQs About Thread Lift Risks
How long do side effects last?
Most side effects resolve within days. Bruising may take up to a week; rare cases of swelling or soreness can last longer.
What’s the most serious risk?
Infections are the most concerning, but they are very rare. Early care prevents escalation.
Can results be reversed if something goes wrong?
Yes. Threads dissolve naturally in 3–6 months. In some cases, we can remove them or use lasers/heat to speed dissolution.
Thinking About a Thread Lift?
If you’re considering a thread lift, our Calgary medical aesthetics team can help you understand both the benefits and the risks. During a consultation, we’ll review your goals, assess candidacy, and create a personalized plan to ensure safe, natural-looking results.
View pricing, styles, and full FAQs on our Calgary Thread Lifts service page.
Schedule a threads consultation and let us guide you through the process with expert recommendations and your own personalized plan.