Dr Catherine de Goursac
Proven biomaterials, a minimally invasive technique, cumulative natural results: resorbable thread lifts reinvent rejuvenation without surgery.
Absorbable thread lifts are currently experiencing unprecedented popularity thanks to their customisation: PDO, PLLA, PCL, and the latest generations of modern copolymers: PLACL / PLCL: these well-characterised biomaterials provide natural lifting, without added volume, no social downtime, and a safety profile now solidly supported by evidence.
Thread Lifts: a modern solution for tissue tightening and skin densification
Resorbable thread lifts are one of the most innovative techniques in aesthetic medicine to improve skin firmness, redefine facial and body contours, and enhance overall skin quality without surgery. It is a quick medical procedure performed under local anaesthetic, in an outpatient setting, with immediate return to daily activities in most cases. One of its key advantages is the absence of social downtime, making it particularly suitable for active patients.
Two complementary mechanisms of action
Thread lifts are not all designed for the same purpose. They can be adapted depending on the area treated and the desired outcome.
Barbed threads (lifting threads) are mainly used for tissue repositioning. They act as a true mechanical lifting system. Thanks to their micro-anchors, they allow repositioning of sagging tissues and redefining facial contours such as the jawline, cheeks, jowls, or neck. Their effect is immediate, visible at the end of the procedure, and then gradually improves and stabilises over the following weeks. It goes without saying that it is necessary to be perfectly trained before inserting threads and to conduct follow-ups through workshops in order to identify the subtleties of application.
Screw threads (spiral threads) have a different but complementary role. They are specifically designed to improve skin quality, density, and texture rather than lifting. Their spiral configuration provides a strong dermal stimulation without significant traction. These threads come from Endromed.
They are particularly indicated in areas with thin or diffusely lax skin, such as:
• the vertical neck lines
• the décolleté
• the inner arms
• the inner thighs
• the upper knees
They create a gradual improvement in skin density, smoothness and elasticity, often described by patients as a “skin tightening from within” effect.
Evolving biomaterials
Threads are made of fully biocompatible and resorbable medical polymers. The main materials used today include PDO (polydioxanone), PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid), and PCL (polycaprolactone), as well as next-generation copolymers combining these technologies.
This continuous evolution aims to improve:
• duration of results
• collagen stimulation
• procedural comfort
• and natural-looking outcomes
Each material has specific properties, but none is universally superior: the choice depends on the treatment area, skin quality, and desired result.
A fully personalised treatment
One of the major strengths of modern thread lifting is its adaptability. Treatment is fully customised according to:
• each facial or body area
• the degree of skin laxity
• skin quality and thickness
• and the patient’s natural aging process over time
Needs are not the same at 35, 45, or 60 years old, and evolve throughout life. Thread lifting therefore allows a progressive and tailored approach to aging, without abrupt or artificial changes, while preserving facial harmony.
A natural, progressive and harmonious result
The outcome relies on two complementary effects: an immediate mechanical lift and a progressive biological stimulation of collagen production. Over time, the skin becomes firmer, smoother, and more toned, while maintaining a natural appearance. The goal is not to change facial features, but to restore support, redefine contours, and improve overall skin quality in a subtle and elegant way.
Thread lifts provide a modern, quick and fully personalised solution to restore facial support, tighten tissues and improve skin quality without surgery or downtime. A subtle, natural and progressive approach to aging, designed to enhance harmony. It is common to combine techniques to combat skin laxity. For example, one session of thread placement, then 9 months later a session of Attiva (subcutaneous radiofrequency), and then 2 years later, the threads are redone. Or a session of HIFU to prepare the area, then a session of thread placement, and 9 months later a new HIFU session.
Dr Catherine de Goursac
Expert in medical aesthetic techniques for 30 years. Teacher at the faculty of medicine since 2017, board member of the AFME (French Association of Aesthetic Medicine) and the FSMEA (Union of Aesthetic and Anti-aging Doctors). Permanent member of the French Society of Aesthetic Medicine.
Infos: degoursac.com
