Understanding thread lifts

Thread lifts are often marketed as a quick, minimally invasive, nonsurgical cosmetic procedure with little downtime and few risks. However, despite their popularity, thread lifts can lead to complications when not performed correctly, particularly when safety protocols are ignored or unsuitable techniques are used.

There are two main types of threads used in thread lift procedures. PDO threads (polydioxanone) are among the most widely used in the UK, dissolving naturally over time while stimulating collagen production in the skin. Polylactic acid (PLA) threads dissolve more slowly and are similarly intended to encourage the body to produce new collagen, improving skin texture and support over time.

Common types of thread lift procedures include:

• Fox eye thread lifts: designed to lift and elongate the eye area.
• Neck thread lifts: used to tighten sagging skin around the neck and jawline.
• Nose thread lifts: intended to reshape or define the nose without surgery.
• Eyebrow thread lifts: used to raise and contour the brows for a more youthful appearance.

When a thread lift goes wrong, it can result in visible irregularities, nerve damage, infection, prolonged pain and emotional distress. According to Save Face, the national register for accredited aesthetic practitioners, 118 complaints about thread lift procedures were recorded in 2022 alone, representing a 30% increase on the previous year.

What risks and thread lift complications should I be aware of?

Thread lifts are often promoted as a minimally invasive, low-risk alternative to traditional surgical facelifts. However, like all cosmetic procedures, they are not without risk. While many people undergo thread lifts without serious issues, some experience complications that may result from poor technique, substandard care or inadequate aftercare. It is important to distinguish between minor, short-term effects and more serious complications that could indicate a thread lift has gone wrong.

Common and temporary side effects

Minor side effects are relatively common following a thread lift and are generally considered part of the normal healing process. These thread lift problems usually resolve within one to two weeks and do not typically require medical intervention:

• Bruising, swelling, bleeding and pain: it is normal to experience some bruising, swelling and tenderness at the thread insertion points. These side effects are generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and rest. They should gradually subside as the skin begins to heal.
• Dimpling or irregularities in the skin: skin puckering or dimpling may appear shortly after the procedure, especially in certain areas of frequent facial movement such as around the mouth or cheeks. This effect usually resolves on its own as the threads settle and the surrounding tissue adapts.
• Mild discomfort or sensitivity: it is also common to feel mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated areas, particularly when touched or during facial expressions. This is typically short-lived and improves without intervention.

Serious complications

While any cosmetic procedure carries some level of risk, the following serious complications from a thread lift are not part of a normal recovery and warrant prompt medical attention:

• Infection: a recognised risk of any procedure involving skin penetration. If an infection occurs due to unsanitary equipment, poor hygiene or inadequate aftercare advice, it may indicate negligence. A practitioner must be able to identify early symptoms, including increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth, pus or fever, and respond appropriately. Failing to do so could allow the infection to worsen, potentially resulting in tissue damage or avoidable scarring.
• Visible threads or thread migration: threads should be placed at an appropriate depth beneath the skin. If inserted too superficially, they may become visible or palpable. Thread migration occurs when threads shift from their original placement, often due to improper technique, creating an uneven appearance or causing visible threads to extrude through the skin's surface.
• Facial asymmetry: a balanced lift requires precise technique and careful planning. If threads are unevenly placed or pulled with unequal tension, one side of the face may appear higher or more lifted than the other, resulting in facial asymmetry that can cause significant distress.
• Nerve damage: thread lifts should avoid contact with facial nerves. If a practitioner inserts threads at the wrong depth or position, the resulting nerve injury can lead to numbness, tingling, muscle weakness or, in severe cases, facial paralysis. These complications can be long-term and may be considered negligent where avoidable errors were made.
• Severe pain or discomfort: mild discomfort is expected after a thread lift, but persistent or severe pain, tenderness or difficulty moving facial muscles may indicate that threads have been placed incorrectly or too near a sensitive area. Pain that interferes with daily life warrants medical review.
• Allergic reactions: PDO threads and polylactic acid (PLA) threads are generally well tolerated, but if an individual has an allergy to these materials and this was not identified beforehand, any resulting reaction may constitute clinical negligence. Comprehensive patient history, including blood thinning medications and known sensitivities, must be taken before any procedure is carried out.
• Scarring: while some degree of scarring at entry points may be expected, it should be minimal and consistent with what the practitioner discussed prior to the procedure. Excessive or disfiguring scarring, particularly where threads were inserted incorrectly or an infection was left untreated, may indicate poor technique or insufficient aftercare.

Why do plastic surgeons not like thread lifts?

Many plastic surgeons are cautious about thread lifts, not because the procedure cannot produce natural results when performed correctly, but because the risks involved are frequently underestimated. Thread lifts require a high level of anatomical knowledge and technical precision. In the wrong hands, potential complications such as nerve injury, thread migration and facial asymmetry can be difficult to reverse.

Unlike surgical facelifts, which are performed in regulated clinical environments by qualified surgeons, thread lift procedures can be carried out in beauty clinics and salons by practitioners without a medical background. The lack of regulatory oversight in the UK means that standards vary significantly. Plastic surgeons often point out that when a thread lift goes wrong, corrective procedures can be more complex, more costly and more distressing for the person affected than if they had chosen a more established surgical option from the outset.

Can a thread lift go wrong?

Yes, a thread lift can go wrong, and it does so more commonly than many clinics acknowledge. Complications from thread lifts can include visible threads beneath the skin, irregular outcomes, facial asymmetry, scarring and prolonged pain. In more serious cases, a thread lift gone wrong can involve infection, allergic reactions, intolerable pain, nerve injury and facial muscle movement disability.

The potential causes include a lack of practitioner expertise leading to improper placement of threads, the use of unsuitable thread types or lengths, and individual variations in how the body responds to the procedure. Patients who have taken blood thinning medications or who have underlying skin conditions may face a higher likelihood of complications if these factors are not assessed properly beforehand.

Can you fix a botched thread lift?

In many cases, the effects of a botched thread lift can be corrected, but it often requires further intervention from a skilled healthcare provider. The appropriate corrective procedures depend on the specific complication involved. Seeking a second opinion from a reputable and experienced surgeon before proceeding with any corrective treatment is strongly advisable. A second opinion can help you understand the full extent of the issue and the realistic options available to you.

Thread extrusion

Thread extrusion occurs when threads break through the surface of the skin. This can happen when threads are inserted too superficially or when the skin is too thin to support them. Thread removal is usually required in these cases, carried out carefully by an experienced practitioner to avoid further tissue damage. In some instances, antibiotics will also be needed if the extrusion site has become infected.

Dimpling and skin irregularities

Where mild dimpling or skin puckering is causing unsatisfactory results, a professional may recommend gentle massage to help smooth the affected area as the threads settle. For more persistent cases, corrective procedures using dermal fillers, particularly hyaluronic acid-based fillers, can help restore volume and smooth the surface of the skin. Laser therapy may also be used to improve skin texture where surface irregularities remain.

Thread migration

Thread migration, where threads shift from their intended position, can create lumps, facial asymmetry or visible thread ends near the surface. Corrective treatment typically involves thread removal followed by an assessment of what, if anything, can be done to restore a more natural appearance. In some cases, dermal fillers or other non-surgical approaches can address residual asymmetry.

Infection

If an infection is present following a thread lift, it must be treated before any other corrective measures are considered. Antibiotics are the first line of treatment, and in more severe cases, thread removal may be required to eliminate the source of infection. If left untreated, a thread lift infection can lead to serious complications including abscess formation and lasting scarring.

Nerve damage and severe pain

If a thread lift has resulted in nerve injury leading to numbness, muscle weakness or paralysis, urgent medical attention is needed. These are among the most serious complications a thread lift can cause. Treatment depends on the extent of the damage and may include referral to a neurologist or specialist reconstructive surgeon. In severe cases, recovery may be partial rather than complete, which is why obtaining prompt medical advice and a second opinion is so important.

Does your face go back to normal after a thread lift?

It depends on the nature of the complication. For minor side effects such as swelling, bruising and mild dimpling, the face generally does return to normal within a few weeks as the threads settle and the body heals. However, when a thread lift goes wrong in more significant ways, such as through thread migration, nerve damage or infection, the face may not return to its previous appearance without further corrective procedures.

In some cases, particularly where nerve injury has occurred or where the skin has been significantly disrupted, lasting changes to the face may remain. This is why the choice of practitioner matters so greatly. A thread lift performed by an experienced surgeon who uses appropriate thread types and takes a thorough patient history carries considerably less risk of permanent or difficult-to-correct complications than one carried out by an unqualified practitioner.

How to choose a safe UK thread lift provider

Choosing the right practitioner for a thread lift is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risks involved. The following guidance can help you assess whether a provider meets the standard of care you should expect.

• Check CQC registration. In England, clinics that carry out procedures involving skin penetration should be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). If a clinic cannot demonstrate registration, that is a significant red flag.
• Verify practitioner credentials. Thread lift procedures should be carried out by a medically qualified professional, such as a doctor, dentist or registered nurse prescriber, with specific training in aesthetic procedures. Ask directly about their qualifications and experience.
• Review before and after photos. Reputable practitioners will be able to show you before and after images of previous patients to help you assess their skill level and whether their results align with your desired results.
• Look for accreditation with Save Face. Save Face is a government-approved register of accredited practitioners in the UK. Choosing an accredited provider gives you an additional layer of assurance that the practitioner meets recognised safety standards.
• Be cautious of unrealistic promises. Any practitioner who downplays the risks involved, guarantees specific results or pressures you into booking quickly should be approached with caution. Realistic expectations should be set during a thorough pre-procedure consultation.
• Ask about aftercare. A responsible practitioner will give clear post-procedure instructions and make themselves available to respond to any concerns, including advising you to avoid strenuous activities in the recovery period.
• Check for patient reviews. Independent reviews on platforms such as Trustpilot or RealSelf can offer insight into previous patients' experiences. Be wary of clinics with no reviews or where reviews appear generic.

How to claim for a thread lift gone wrong

If your thread lift has gone wrong due to the negligence of a cosmetic practitioner, you may be entitled to compensation. A successful claim can help you recover costs for corrective procedures, lost earnings and damages for the pain and suffering you have endured.

To start a claim, it is important to take the following steps:

Seek medical attention: your health is the priority. Consult a medical professional independent of the original practitioner to assess your injuries and get the right treatment.

1. Document everything: keep a detailed record of your experience. This includes photos of the complications as they develop, medical reports and any correspondence with the clinic or practitioner.
2. Contact a specialist solicitor: speak to a solicitor who specialises in cosmetic surgery negligence, such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors. They can provide expert advice on the viability of your claim.

For help or to start a claim, call our team on 0161 877 1066 or contact us online.

What are the risks and potential complications of a thread lift?

Thread lifts are often promoted as a minimally invasive, low-risk alternative to traditional facelift surgery. However, like all cosmetic procedures, they are not without risk. While many people undergo thread lifts without serious issues, some experience complications that may result from poor technique, substandard care or inadequate aftercare. It is important to distinguish between minor, short-term effects and more serious complications that could indicate a thread lift has gone wrong.

Common and temporary side effects

Minor side effects are relatively common following a thread lift and are generally considered part of the normal healing process. These usually resolve within one to two weeks and do not typically require medical intervention:

• Bruising, swelling, bleeding, and pain: it is normal to experience some bruising, swelling and tenderness at the thread insertion points. These side effects are generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief and rest. They should gradually subside as the skin begins to heal.
• Dimpling or irregularities in the skin: skin puckering or dimpling may appear shortly after the procedure, especially in areas of frequent facial movement such as around the mouth or cheeks. This effect usually resolves on its own as the threads settle and the surrounding tissue adapts.
• Mild discomfort or sensitivity: it is also common to feel mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated areas, particularly when touched or during facial expressions. This is typically short-lived and improves without intervention.

Serious complications

While any cosmetic procedure carries some level of risk, serious complications from a thread lift are not part of a normal recovery that you should seek medical attention for:

• Infection: this is a recognised risk of any procedure involving skin penetration, including thread lifts. However, if an infection occurs due to unsanitary equipment, poor hygiene or inadequate aftercare advice, it may indicate negligence. It is also essential that any signs of infection are identified and acted upon promptly. A surgeon must be able to recognise early symptoms - such as increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth, pus, unusual discharge or fever and respond appropriately by prescribing treatment or escalating care when necessary. Failing to do so could allow the infection to worsen, potentially resulting in tissue damage or avoidable scarring.
• Visible threads or thread migration: threads should be placed at an appropriate depth beneath the skin. If they are inserted too superficially, they may become visible or palpable, leading to aesthetic concerns. Threads may also move from their intended position, creating an uneven appearance or, in severe cases, extruding from the skin. These outcomes often suggest poor technique or lack of proper planning.
• Facial asymmetry: a balanced and symmetrical lift requires precise technique and careful pre-procedure planning. If threads are unevenly placed or pulled with unequal tension, one side of the face may appear higher or more lifted than the other. This can result in an unnatural or distorted appearance, often leading to emotional distress for the person affected.
• Nerve damage: thread lifts should avoid contact with facial nerves. If a surgeon inserts threads inappropriately or at the wrong depth, there is a risk of damaging nerves, which can lead to numbness, tingling, muscle weakness or even facial paralysis. Although rare, these complications can be long-term and may be considered negligent if avoidable errors were made.
• Severe pain or discomfort: mild discomfort is expected after a thread lift, but persistent pain, tenderness or difficulty moving facial muscles - particularly opening the mouth - may indicate that threads have been placed incorrectly, too deeply or near a sensitive area. Pain that interferes with daily life or fails to improve with time warrants medical review.
• Allergic reactions: thread lifts use materials such as polydioxanone (PDO) or polylactic acid (PLA), which are generally well tolerated. However, if an individual has an allergy to these substances and this was not identified beforehand, the resulting reaction could be the result of clinical negligence. A comprehensive patient history should be taken before any procedure, and known allergies must be taken seriously to avoid avoidable harm.
• Scarring: some degree of scarring at the entry points may be expected, but it should be minimal and in line with what the surgeon discussed prior to the procedure. If excessive or inappropriate scarring develops - especially if the threads were inserted incorrectly or if an infection was left untreated - may indicate poor technique or insufficient post-procedure care. Unexpected or disfiguring scarring can have a lasting psychological impact and may give grounds for a compensation claim.