About mid-face thread lift

A mid-face PDO thread procedure involves the careful placement of dissolvable sutures to provide immediate mechanical support to the cheek area. By physically repositioning the underlying fat pads and soft tissue, this treatment helps to firm the mid-face and support its structure. As the body gradually absorbs the threads, they also encourage the skin’s natural renewal process, supporting the production of collagen (type I & III) and elastin to help maintain a firmer, more refreshed appearance over time.

This procedure supports the areas where we often first notice structural changes, particularly the cheeks and the lines running from the nose to the mouth (nasolabial folds). Over time, the foundations of the face naturally change: the facial bones provide less support, our natural fat pads can become smaller and shift lower, and the muscles that hold everything in place may soften. As the skin also becomes thinner, it can lose its ability to stay firm. By using PDO threads, aim to mechanically reposition these shifting tissues to help support the mid-face and provide a firmer, more refreshed appearance.

Benefits of a mid-face thread lift treatment

1. Immediate Mechanical Support

The primary benefit is the physical support that the threads may provide. By carefully placing the sutures, we can reposition the underlying fat pads that have shifted downward over time. This helps to immediately firm the appearance of the cheeks and the mid-face area.

2. Refined Facial Contours

As the threads provide support to the mid-face, they may help soften the appearance of the nasolabial folds (the lines from the nose to the mouth). This may result in a more defined and refreshed facial profile without the need for traditional surgery.

3. Support for Skin Quality

Beyond the initial mechanical support, the presence of the threads encourages your skin’s natural renewal process. As the threads are gradually absorbed, they support the production of collagen and elastin, which helps the skin maintain a firmer and smoother texture.

4. Minimal Downtime

Because this is a non-surgical procedure, most people can return to their daily activities relatively quickly. It offers a way to address structural changes in the face with less interruption to your routine compared to more invasive options.

5. Naturally Absorbed by the Body

The threads are made from polydioxanone (PDO), a material used in medical sutures for decades. They are designed to be naturally and safely broken down by your body over several months, meaning no permanent foreign material remains in the skin.

How does a Mid-Face Thread Lift treatment work?

PDO Threads are biodegradable, polydioxanone (PDO) sutures, which dissolve in the body over time.

Using a non-incision method, the threads procedure is minimally invasive relative to surgery, and generally has minimal downtime.

The procedure works by inserting very fine threads under the skin through a tiny hole made with a small needle. The threads grip under the surface of the skin, enabling us to subtly lift up the skin. The threads are then secured to hold the lifted position of the skin.

Markings will be made in pencil to ensure symmetry;
The skin will be thoroughly cleaned to reduce the risk of infection;
Various pain management modalities are utilise to ensure maximum comfort;
The threads will be inserted under the skin through a small hole made with a needle, and then pulled into position;
The threads are secured and trimmed.

Once inserted, the polydioxanone suture will be absorbed by the body over time, approximately ‌6 to 9 months. Results typically last 12-18 months, however individual results may vary.

By stimulating the body’s natural immune response, PDO threads stimulate the production of collagen (type I & III), which may lead to improved skin elasticity and skin cell regeneration. This may help to improve the appearance of fine lines, skin laxity and jowling.

Areas that a mid-face thread lift can target

The Cheeks (Malar Region)

As the facial structure changes over time, the natural fat pads in the cheeks can shift downwards. PDO threads are used to mechanically support and reposition this tissue higher on the cheekbone, helping to restore a firmer and more defined appearance to the mid-face.

Nasolabial Folds

These are the lines that run from the corners of the nose to the corners of the mouth. By providing support to the cheek area above, PDO threads may help soften the appearance of these folds, creating a smoother transition between the mid and lower face.

The “Ogee Curve”

In aesthetics, this is the gentle “S” curve seen from a side profile. PDO threads may help refine this contour by adding support where the mid-face may have lost its structural firmness, giving the profile a more refreshed look.

The Under-Eye Support Zone

While threads are not placed directly in the delicate under-eye skin, supporting the mid-face and upper cheek may provide an indirect smoothing effect to the area where the cheek meets the lower eyelid (the tear trough area).

Lower Mid-Face and Jowl Transition

By supporting the tissue in the mid-face, threads may help minimise the early signs of sagging near the jawline. This helps to maintain a smoother, more continuous line from the cheek down toward the lower face.

Side effects and recovery

PDO thread treatments are generally well tolerated, however as with any aesthetic procedure, temporary side effects can occur, and these can vary from patient to patient. Commonly, patients may experience swelling, bruising, tenderness, tightness, or a pulling sensation in the treated area. These effects are typically short-lived and settle over several days to weeks as the tissue adapts and healing progresses.

Patient suitability for PDO thread procedures is determined by a range of clinical factors, including individual facial anatomy, tissue laxity, and lifestyle variables.

A comprehensive clinical consultation is mandatory to evaluate these factors, discuss potential risks and contraindications, and ensure that this treatment—or a suitable alternative—is clinically appropriate for your specific requirements.

What you can expect

Treatment Summary

Procedure time
Your journey begins with a dedicated 30-minute clinical consultation. During this time, our practitioners will assess your facial structure and discuss your aesthetic goals to develop a tailored treatment plan. The procedure itself typically requires approximately 40 to 60 minutes, though this varies depending on the number of threads required, individual anatomical needs, and our strict sterilization and safety protocols.
Recovery time
Recovery is a unique process for everyone, and individual experiences with downtime can vary. While many patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within a day or two, others may require a little more time for temporary swelling or bruising to subside. To support the healing process, we recommend a staged return to your normal routine, ensuring you avoid strenuous exercise for at least 5-7 days.
Prices
A mini thread lift’s cost depends on the individual's needs. We recommend booking an obligation-free doctor-led consultation face- to -face or telehealth to discuss a treatment plan and rejuvenation options.

Mid-Face Thread Lifts

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to prepare for mid-face thread lift treatment and how?
Yes, a few simple steps can help support a smooth recovery. While your practitioner will provide you with a personalized pre-treatment plan during your consultation, general preparation often includes:
- Medical Review: Disclosing your full medical history and any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
- Medication Guidance: You may be advised to avoid certain anti-inflammatory medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bruising for a few days before your appointment.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: We recommend avoiding alcohol for 24 to 48 hours prior to treatment to support your body’s natural healing process.
Who is not suitable for this procedure?

Patient suitability is always determined on an individual basis during a clinical assessment. While PDO threads can be used for various structural concerns across different age groups, they are not appropriate for everyone.

Common contraindications include:
Specific Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain health concerns, such as poorly controlled diabetes mellitus or conditions that affect skin healing (such as dermal necrosis), are generally not suitable candidates.

Active Skin Issues: The procedure cannot be performed if there is an active infection, inflammation, or skin condition in the planned treatment area.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: As a safety precaution, we do not perform this procedure during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Unrealistic Expectations: If the desired outcome requires surgical intervention, PDO threads may not be the appropriate choice.

Your practitioner will conduct a comprehensive review of your health and anatomy to ensure that this treatment—or a suitable alternative—is safe and appropriate for you.
How long do results last?

The effects of PDO threads are temporary, as the sutures are designed to be naturally absorbed by the body. While many patients find the visible results last around 12-18 months, this timeframe is highly individual. Factors such as your skin type, metabolic rate, and lifestyle choices will influence how long the supportive effects remain visible.
The results of a mid-face PDO thread lift may be visible soon after treatment. The skin firming and collagen-replacement effects of your mid-face thread lift may last 12 to 18 months.

Results can vary between individuals and are not guaranteed.
How soon will I see results?

You may notice a mechanical improvement in the positioning of the skin soon after the treatment and underlying tissue following the procedure. However, the full results typically continue to develop over 6-12 weeks due to the timeline of new collagen production. The body’s natural renewal process gradually responds to the presence of the threads, supporting the skin’s structure even as the threads begin to dissolve.
Is the procedure painful?

We prioritise patient comfort and use a local anaesthetic to numb the treatment area, which helps to minimise sensation during the procedure. While you may feel some pressure or mild tugging, most patients describe the experience as involving only mild discomfort.

As with any invasive treatment, it is normal to experience some temporary tenderness, swelling, or bruising in the days following the procedure. This is generally manageable and much less intensive than the recovery period associated with surgical alternatives.
How many threads will I need for a lift?

There is no ‘standard’ number of threads, as every face is unique. The total count depends on the area being treated and the level of support required. During your consultation, we will evaluate your skin quality and facial contours to create a personalised plan that outlines exactly how many threads are recommended for your specific goals.
What is the difference between mono threads and lifting threads?

Mono threads are a type of PDO filament that are inserted into the subdermal level in a mesh-like pattern to help increase skin elasticity. The threads activate collagen synthesis, which produces a gradual skin thickening, skin firming and rejuvenation effect. Results can appear in 6 weeks and may keep getting better over 2–6 months.

PDO mono threads are ‘short’, smooth threads without barbs. Typically around 5–50 PDO mono threads are used to treat a single area.

During a mid-face thread lift, your practitioner may also use cog/barbed threads. Cog threads are thicker lengths of PDO material that are loaded onto a cannula, which is then inserted into the skin. The little cogs (or barbs) on these threads lift the looser skin of the cheek, jowl, or brow as the thread is pulled upwards. As they are stronger than PDO mono threads, cogs may typically achieve more lifting and contouring. Results can vary, but results are typically visible soon after treatment

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Meet Our Doctors

Procedures at Elucell are provided within a doctor-led medical setting. All consultations and treatment planning are conducted by Dr Daiana Baragan (MBBS, Diploma of Aesthetic Medicine), Medical Practitioner – MED0002148322 (General Registration), who provides clinical oversight and assesses suitability for all treatments.

Dr Baragan is supported by Registered Nurses (Division 1, RN) who may assist with patient care and procedural support within their professional scope of practice and under medical governance. The doctor-led and registered general practitioners operates in accordance with evidence-informed practice and established clinical standards.

Elucell’s approach prioritises patient safety, informed consent, and individual assessment, with treatment discussions focused on appropriate care pathways and long-term skin health rather than guaranteed or immediate results.

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About mid-face thread lift

Benefits of a mid-face thread lift treatment

1. Immediate Mechanical Support

2. Refined Facial Contours

3. Support for Skin Quality

4. Minimal Downtime

5. Naturally Absorbed by the Body

How does a Mid-Face Thread Lift treatment work?

Areas that a mid-face thread lift can target

The Cheeks (Malar Region)

Nasolabial Folds

The “Ogee Curve”

The Under-Eye Support Zone

Lower Mid-Face and Jowl Transition

Side effects and recovery

What you can expect

Treatment Summary

Procedure time

Recovery time

Prices

Mid-Face Thread Lifts

Frequently Asked Questions

ELUCELL also recommends...

Combination Treatments

Lower Face Thread Lifts

Meet Our Doctors

We’re here to help.

Treatments

Thread Lifts by Area

Book an Obligation-Free Doctor-led Consultation

Search

About mid-face thread lift

Benefits of a mid-face thread lift treatment

1. Immediate Mechanical Support

2. Refined Facial Contours

3. Support for Skin Quality

4. Minimal Downtime

5. Naturally Absorbed by the Body

How does a Mid-Face Thread Lift treatment work?

Areas that a mid-face thread lift can target

The Cheeks (Malar Region)

Nasolabial Folds

The “Ogee Curve”

The Under-Eye Support Zone

Lower Mid-Face and Jowl Transition

Side effects and recovery

What you can expect

Treatment Summary

Procedure time

Recovery time

Prices

Mid-Face Thread Lifts

Frequently Asked Questions

ELUCELL also recommends...

Combination Treatments

Lower Face Thread Lifts

Meet Our Doctors

We’re here to help.

Treatments

Thread Lifts by Area