Thread Lift Procedure South Africa

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we combine surgical expertise with aesthetic precision to address sagging skin and restore youthful facial contours. 

Your journey begins with an aesthetic couture consultation where we assess your facial structure, discuss your goals, and create a bespoke treatment plan using specialised absorbable threads. 

From lifting sagging cheeks to refining the jawline, each procedure is tailored to achieve natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime. 

Schedule your consultation to discover how thread lifts can redefine your appearance.

Thread lifts utilise specialised absorbable threads in various configurations to address specific aesthetic concerns. 

The main thread types include:

• PDO (Polydioxanone) threads – Most commonly used for their excellent safety profile and proven results
• PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) threads – Offer extended longevity with stronger collagen stimulation
• PCL (Polycaprolactone) threads – Provide the longest-lasting effects for sustained rejuvenation

Each thread also comes in different structures: barbed sutures create a lifting effect for sagging tissues, smooth threads stimulate collagen production to improve skin texture and firmness, and screw threads restore volume. 

During your consultation, your aesthetic doctor will assess your unique facial structure and recommend the most suitable thread technique to achieve your aesthetic goals.

The ideal candidate for a thread lift is typically between 35 and 55 years old, experiencing early signs of facial ageing, including sagging skin and loss of facial definition. 

This minimally invasive procedure is suitable for those seeking facial rejuvenation without a surgical facelift. You may be an excellent candidate if you have mild to moderate skin laxity, good overall skin quality, and realistic expectations about results. 

Schedule your aesthetic couture consultation to determine if a thread lift is the right solution for your aesthetic goals.

Thread lift procedures begin with an aesthetic couture consultation where we assess your facial structure, skin quality, and aesthetic goals. 

During this consultation, we discuss your medical history, lifestyle factors, and expectations to determine the most suitable thread technique for your needs.

On the day of your procedure, a local anaesthetic is administered for comfort and your face is cleansed with an antiseptic solution. Using a thin needle, specialised threads are inserted into the subcutaneous tissue at precise entry points to lift and support sagging skin while stimulating the body’s natural healing response and collagen production. 

Once the threads are positioned, gentle pressure is applied, and supportive tape is placed on the treated area. We provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and arrange follow-up appointments to monitor how your results develop over the following weeks. 

Contact us to schedule your consultation and discover how thread lifts can rejuvenate your appearance.

A thread lift procedure typically takes between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the treatment areas and number of threads used. 

This quick procedure offers significant facial rejuvenation with minimal time commitment compared to surgical alternatives. 

Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn more about what to expect during your thread lift appointment.

Thread lift recovery is relatively quick with minimal downtime compared to surgical alternatives. 

You can expect some temporary discomfort, minor swelling and bruising immediately after the procedure, which typically subsides within a few weeks. Most patients return to normal activity within days, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for 10-14 days. 

During the first three weeks, it’s important to minimise facial movements, avoid direct pressure to the treated area, and sleep elevated on your back. Ice application and Arnica tablets can help reduce swelling and bruising during the initial recovery phase. 

Your results develop gradually as the threads stimulate collagen production and the body’s natural healing response. Contact us to learn more about what to expect during your recovery journey.

Thread lift results typically last between 1-3 years, depending on the thread type used, your individual skin quality, lifestyle factors, and the natural ageing process. 

While the absorbable threads dissolve over time, the collagen production they stimulate continues to provide improved skin firmness and texture. 

PDO threads generally maintain results for 12-18 months, while PLLA and PCL threads offer extended longevity. For comparison, traditional facelift surgery provides results lasting 10+ years, though with significantly more invasive procedures and recovery time. 

During your consultation, our aesthetic doctors will discuss realistic expectations and recommend the most suitable thread option based on your aesthetic goals and how long you’d like results to last.

Thread lift costs in South Africa vary significantly depending on the clinic’s expertise, thread quality, number of threads used, treatment areas, and whether the procedure is performed in rooms or theatre. 

Pricing typically reflects the skill level of the practitioner, the type of threads selected, and the complexity of your individual treatment plan.

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, our thread lift procedures range from R20,000 to R40,000, with the final cost determined during your consultation based on your specific needs and aesthetic goals. 

Additional costs include:

• Consultation fee: R1,740
• Procedure medications: R800 – R1,000

Contact us to schedule your consultation and receive a personalised quote tailored to your treatment plan.

While thread lifts are a low-risk procedure with minimal downtime, it’s important to understand potential limitations. 

Results typically last 1-3 years compared to facelift surgery, which can last over 10 years, meaning the threads dissolve and the effects gradually diminish. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort, swelling and bruising, minor asymmetry, or visible threads in very thin skin. The most common concern is achieving results that don’t meet expectations, which is why clear communication during consultation is essential. Thread lifts work best for mild to moderate concerns rather than advanced ageing. 

During your consultation, our aesthetic doctors will assess whether thread treatments are suitable for your individual needs or if other procedures may deliver better outcomes.

Some plastic surgeons prefer traditional surgical facelifts because they deliver more dramatic results and longer-lasting outcomes, typically 10+ years, compared to the 1-3 years thread lifts offer. 

Surgical procedures allow for more extensive tissue repositioning and removal of excess loose skin, which thread treatments cannot achieve. 

However, not every patient requires or desires invasive surgery with extended recovery times. Thread lifts serve a different purpose – they’re ideal for patients with mild to moderate sagging who want a non-surgical option with minimal downtime. 

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we believe in offering comprehensive aesthetic solutions tailored to each individual’s facial structure, lifestyle, and goals, which include both surgical and non-surgical approaches for optimal results.

Contact us to discuss which approach suits your needs.

Thread lifts are a safe, low-risk procedure when performed in a sterile clinical environment by experienced aesthetic doctors using high-quality absorbable threads. 

The minimally invasive procedure has an excellent safety profile with minimal downtime. 

Possible side effects are generally mild and temporary, including minor swelling and bruising, temporary discomfort, slight asymmetry, or visible threads in very thin skin. Rare complications such as hematoma or infection are treatable. 

The threads dissolve naturally over time without leaving visible scars. 

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we prioritise patient safety through comprehensive consultations, sterile technique, and thorough aftercare to minimise risks. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid thread lift procedures. 

Contact us to discuss any concerns during your consultation.

As with any cosmetic procedure, thread lifts carry some risks and potential complications, though they are considered a low-risk procedure with minimal complications overall. It’s important to understand potential side effects before undergoing treatment. 

Most issues are temporary and resolve within a few weeks as your body adapts to the threads and healing progresses.

Thread lift: Side Effects, Risks & Complications

• Temporary discomfort and mild pain during the initial healing phase
• Swelling and bruising around the treated area, typically subsiding within 1-2 weeks
• Minor asymmetry in facial contours that may require adjustment
• Visible threads or puckering in patients with very thin skin
• Infection or hematoma (rare but treatable)
• Dimpling or irregularities along the thread insertion points
• Unsatisfactory lifting effect that doesn’t meet aesthetic expectations
• Possible migration of threads if post-procedure instructions aren’t followed

Contra-indications for a thread lift 

• Pregnancy or nursing
• Active skin infections or inflammation in treatment areas
• Blood clotting disorders or the use of blood thinners
• Autoimmune conditions affecting wound healing
• Unrealistic expectations about results
• Severe skin laxity requiring surgical intervention
• Recent facial surgery or procedures in the treatment area

Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for achieving optimal results and minimising potential complications from your thread lift procedure. 

Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure a safe experience and support the body’s natural healing response for the best possible outcome.

Before the thread lift procedure

• Schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctors to discuss the procedure and agree on the threads to be used
• Request a quote and book your procedure date after the consultation
• Pay a 20% deposit within 3 days to secure your booking
• Arrange transport, as you may not drive for 12 hours after sedation
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements as advised during consultation
• Stop smoking at least two weeks before to promote optimal healing
• Ensure you’re well-rested and hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment

Day of the thread lift procedure

On the day of your procedure, follow these important instructions:

• Take normal daily medications (blood pressure, diabetic, antidepressants) as usual
• Do not wear makeup, creams, or lotions on your face
• Eat something before the procedure
• Arrive 30 minutes early to complete necessary paperwork
• Provide your driver’s contact details to our Surgical Practice Manager
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol

What to do after the thread lift  procedure

Following post-procedure instructions carefully is crucial for optimal healing and achieving the best lifting effect. Your treated area needs time to settle as the threads stimulate collagen production and your facial tissues adjust to their new position.

• Elevate your head on two pillows for the first 3 nights and sleep on your back
• Apply ice to the face and neck for 24-48 hours to minimise swelling
• Take Arnica tablets to help reduce swelling and bruising
• Avoid direct pressure to the face and neck for 3 weeks
• Keep facial movements and neck turning to a minimum for 3 weeks
• Avoid excessive chewing, talking, yawning, and smiling during this period
• Wash hair and face gently with no vigorous rubbing
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 10-14 days
• Do not remove micropore tape for 3 days (doctor will remove at follow-up)
• Take prescribed pain medication only if needed
• Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for the first few weeks
• Refrain from dental work, facials, or other facial treatments for 3-4 weeks
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor results as they develop

Thread lifts and botulinum toxin serve different purposes and address distinct aspects of facial ageing. 

Botulinum toxin relaxes facial muscles to smooth dynamic wrinkles like frown lines and crow’s feet, with results lasting 3-4 months. 

Thread lifts physically lift sagging skin and tissues while stimulating collagen production, addressing loss of volume, sagging cheeks, jowls, and facial definition, with results lasting 1-3 years.

Many patients achieve optimal facial rejuvenation by combining both treatments. Botulinum toxin smooths expression lines whilst thread lifts restore facial contours and structural support. 

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we often recommend a comprehensive approach using multiple techniques, including dermal fillers and other procedures, for harmonious results. 

Contact us for a consultation to determine which treatment or combination best suits your aesthetic goals.

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we perform thread lift procedures at our specialist aesthetic clinic located in the prestigious V&A Waterfront. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a luxurious, sterile environment where advanced thread techniques meet surgical expertise and personalised care.

Every procedure is tailored to your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals, combining minimally invasive techniques with comprehensive aftercare to help you achieve natural-looking rejuvenation and optimal results.

Book your consultation today and discover how our experienced aesthetic doctors can help you achieve your facial rejuvenation goals.