Revitalise your look: How liquid thread lifts help tighten skin and boost collagen production

As skin ages, it undergoes a myriad of changes, often resulting in the loss of elasticity, the appearance of fine lines and a general decrease in youthful plumpness. 

“Our body’s collagen production begins to decrease around the late 20s, which is when skin may start to lose its firmness. Collagen is like a building block of the skin and a critical protein for keeping it firm and smooth,” explains Dr Sam Pradeep, founder and medical director of Glowwis Aesthetic & Medical Clinic.

“These effects tend to become more pronounced after the age of 30, often appearing as sagginess, fine lines and wrinkles.”

To combat these changes, various treatments have been developed to lift and smooth skin, and boost collagen production, says Dr Sam.

Among the skin rejuvenation options available today are Ultherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), laser and thread lifting, which uses fine, dissolvable threads to lift and stimulate skin renewal. 

Dr Sam explains that this non-surgical method to lift skin uses polydioxanone (PDO) in liquid form. During a single session, 1,400 ultra-fine PDO threads are administered into the skin through a blunt-tip micro-cannula. When they dissolve over time, they will help stimulate collagen production in the skin.

“This technique minimises bruising and swelling, ensuring a smoother experience for patients and is suitable for individuals in their late 20s and above who are looking to improve visible signs of ageing,” says Dr Sam.

The liquid formulation of PDO threads also allows for an even spread across treatment areas, helping to prevent lumps or uneven textures, he adds.

By stimulating collagen production, the liquid PDO thread lift helps to gradually achieve firmer, smoother skin.

“It’s a two-in-one process,” Dr Sam says. “The treatment, the fourth generation of its kind, tightens and lifts the skin while also enhancing volume in areas that may appear sunken.”

For the treatment process, Dr Sam outlines these key steps: “We start with double cleansing to prepare the skin, followed by a thorough skin scan and analysis.

“During the consultation, I assess the skin to create a tailored treatment plan.” To ensure comfort, a numbing cream is applied before the procedure is carried out.

Dr Sam will then administer the PDO threads in liquid form into the targeted areas or full face, depending on the requirements of each patient. The consistency allows the liquid PDO threads to spread evenly beneath the skin, promoting a lifting effect and stimulating collagen production, says Dr Sam. 

He notes, the duration of the treatment depends on the dosage of the liquid PDO threads, but one session typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

“The liquid PDO thread lift can be applied across multiple areas such as face, under eyes, neck and hands to combat signs of ageing,” adds Dr Sam.

On the face, it targets common concerns like sagging cheeks, under-eye dark circles and under-eye hollows, as well as fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth.

The treatment can also be used to lift areas such as the forehead and eyebrows, helping to reduce the appearance of smile lines and marionette lines (wrinkles at the corners of your mouth). 

“The liquid PDO thread lift supports skin texture and firmness in the under-eye area, which may help reduce signs of tiredness and refresh the eye area overall,” says Dr Sam. 

In addition to the face, the treatment can also be performed on the neck to help tighten loose skin, he says. He adds that it is also an option for hands, to reduce hollowness and to smoothen their appearance.

After the liquid PDO thread lift, patients can expect minimal downtime due to the micro-cannula technique, which reduces trauma to the skin. 

For many, there will be no redness, though some may experience mild swelling depending on their skin type, which typically subsides within the day, says Dr Sam.

“This minor swelling is common with injectable treatments, especially for those with thinner skin, as it may retain a small amount of water under the surface,” he explains. 

“The micro-cannula is flexible and has a blunt tip, allowing for minimal trauma compared with traditional sharp-end needles,” Dr Sam says. “A small entry point is created for the micro-cannula to administer the liquid PDO threads, causing minimal injury.” 

He adds that his patients can resume regular activities within 24 hours of treatment. 

For post-treatment care, he says it is advisable to avoid alcohol for one day before and after the treatment. “This applies to any injectable treatment, as alcohol can increase the likelihood of bruising if consumed close to the procedure,” Dr Sam explains. 

In terms of long-term results, maintenance treatments are typically recommended once a year, says Dr Sam. The initial treatment plan will depend on individual skin concerns and desired skin goals.

He adds, “The longevity of the liquid PDO thread lift results can vary depending on individual factors such as skin type, age and lifestyle, but effects can potentially last more than a year.”