Lip Threading

Latest update: July 14, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD

Details

Lip threading, also known as lip thread lift, is a non-surgical procedure that can enhance the shape of the lips and  accentuate the lip line. The threads used are very fine, dissolvable, and manufactured out of the same material as surgical sutures.

This procedure can lift the edges of the lips, slightly plump the lips, and define the Cupid's 
bow. It also stimulates collagen production to improve elasticity and structure in the lip area. The threads can pull back the skin to iron out fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. It will not add dramatic volume, correct asymmetrical lips, or act as a substitute for dermal fillers. 

The procedure is safe and reasonably quick, taking about 30 minutes. Patients will receive a topical numbing cream or an injectable nerve block to ease discomfort. Once the lips are numb, practitioners make tiny incisions at both corners of the mouth. They insert a cannula to direct the thin threads along the outline of the lips. Several threads are needed for the area. The provider will position the threads above the blood vessels and nerves to avoid complications.

After the procedure, swelling and bruising are expected and can last up to 2 weeks. Like most procedures, lip threading comes with some risks. These can include infection, allergic reaction, scarring, and lumps, but these are relatively rare. The results are subtle and natural-looking and will last 4-6 months before the threads dissolve. The collagen produced from the incisions can last a year to improve the appearance of the lip area.
Anesthesia
Topical
Operation Time
1-2
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
1-2
Recovery Period
2 weeks
Invasiveness
minimal

I Got Threads Injected Into My Lips | Macro Beauty | Refinery29

Refinery29 follows Lexi Donato as she gets a Lip Thread Lift done. She explains why she is looking to get this done. Dr. Sheila Nazarian, a plastic surgeon from Beverly Hills, talks about what she does for her patients. She explains how the treatment works and talks a little about who this procedure would work for. The procedure is shown and Lexi talks about her expectations versus the results.

PDO LIP FLIP - PDO Thread Lift Before After

Dr. Anil Rajani, a specialist in minimally invasive aesthetic medicine, demonstrates the "PDO lip flip". He explains the various types of PDO threads used and why they would be used in the lip. He prepares us for the operation he is about to show us; a procedure involving the use of PDO threads on the lip border. During the operation, he explains what is being done as it happens on-screen and shows the results.