Skin aging is reflected in the loss of firmness, less defined contours, and sagging facial tissues.
The thread lifts — or support threads — are a modern alternative to surgery, capable of lifting, repositioning, and stimulating collagen, with natural results and minimal recovery time.
At OnlySmile in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel, Azores), we combine advanced medical techniques with personalized facial planning to restore facial balance and youthfulness without compromising natural expression.
The Essentials
- The thread lifts work on two fronts: mechanically supporting the tissues and stimulating collagen for a prolonged effect.
- They are indicated for facial sagging, neck, and jawline contour.
- Minimally invasive treatment, with quick recovery and immediate results.
- Visible lifting effect lasting up to 18 to 24 months, depending on the type of thread and skin.
- At OnlySmile, we prioritize naturalness, symmetry, and safety, with certified threads and precise medical technique.
Index
- What are thread lifts
- How they work
- Types of threads and main differences
- When they are indicated
- Most treated areas
- Step-by-step procedure
- Results, duration, and maintenance
- Pre- and post-treatment care
- Combination with other facial harmonization treatments
- Thread lifts in Ponta Delgada — OnlySmile approach
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are thread lifts
Thread lifts are biocompatible and absorbable threads applied under the skin to lift tissues, redefine facial contours, and stimulate collagen.
They are one of the most sought-after non-surgical lifting techniques due to their effectiveness, safety, and naturalness.
As the body absorbs the thread (over months), biostimulation occurs: the skin produces new collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in a prolonged lifting effect even after the material is reabsorbed.
2. How they work
The thread acts on two levels:
- Mechanical: the thread has microcones or hooks that anchor the tissues and gently reposition them.
- Biological: the thread material (usually PDO, PLLA, or PCL) induces neocollagenesis, strengthening the skin’s structure.
The result is firmer, denser, and more elastic skin, with an immediate lifting effect and a progressive one that consolidates in the following months.
3. Types of threads and main differences
There are different types of threads, each with specific properties and indications:
- PDO Threads (Polydioxanone): lighter, ideal for collagen stimulation and overall rejuvenation.
- Traction threads with cones (PLLA or PCL): anchor tissues and produce a visible and lasting lift.
- Barbed or bidirectional threads: used in areas with greater sagging.
- Smooth threads: stimulate collagen in delicate areas without the need for lifting.
At OnlySmile, the choice of type and number of threads is based on individual facial assessment and digital planning, ensuring proportion and harmony.
4. When they are indicated
Thread lifts are indicated for patients with mild to moderate sagging who wish to improve facial contours without resorting to surgery.
They are effective in cases of:
- Loss of firmness in the cheeks and jawline.
- Sagging jawline (“facial bulldog”).
- Drooping eyebrows.
- Cervical sagging (neck).
- Asymmetric facial contour.
They are also a complementary option to other treatments, such as biostimulators and hyaluronic acid.
5. Most treated areas
Threads can be applied in various areas, according to aesthetic and anatomical needs:
- Face: cheeks, cheekbones, jawline, and chin.
- Eyebrows: discreet lift (“fox eyes” or rejuvenated look).
- Neck: improved firmness and cervical contour.
- Body (in selected cases): arms, abdomen, and knees.
The priority is always naturalness, respecting anatomical vectors and facial harmony.
6. Step-by-step procedure
- Detailed medical evaluation: analysis of sagging and definition of technique.
- Marking of vector lines for traction and insertion points.
- Asepsis and local anesthesia for maximum comfort.
- Insertion of threads through microcannulas or fine needles.
- Controlled adjustment and tension, ensuring symmetry and naturalness.
- Light massage and final cleaning.
The session lasts about 40 to 60 minutes. The patient returns to their activities on the same day.
7. Results, duration, and maintenance
The lifting effect is immediate, although the final result consolidates over 4 to 6 weeks.
In the following months, natural collagen production occurs, prolonging rejuvenation.
The average duration varies between 12 and 24 months, depending on the type of thread, skin thickness, and patient habits (smoking, sun exposure, daily care).
Maintenance can be done with new threads or complementary treatments, such as biostimulators or chemical peels.
8. Pre- and post-treatment care
Before:
- Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatories 48 hours prior.
- Do not undergo other facial treatments on the same day.
- Keep skin clean and hydrated.
After:
- Avoid wide facial movements (excessive laughing, yawning) in the first 48 hours.
- Do not undergo massages, dental, or aesthetic treatments for a week.
- Avoid intense physical exercise and heat for 5 days.
- Sleep on your back for the first few nights.
Following these recommendations optimizes comfort and results.
9. Combination with other facial harmonization treatments
Thread lifts work very well when integrated with:
- Botulinum toxin: reduces dynamic wrinkles and enhances lifting.
- Hyaluronic acid: corrects volumes and residual grooves.
- Biostimulators: reinforce collagen and prolong the lifting effect.
- Chemical peels: improve skin texture and radiance.
- Facial mesotherapy: deeply hydrates and nourishes.
This combination is the essence of the OnlySmile philosophy — real, gradual results without exaggeration.
10. Thread lifts in Ponta Delgada — OnlySmile approach
At OnlySmile, thread lifts are applied with personalized medical planning, respecting each patient’s facial structure and dynamics.
Each procedure is performed with certified products, safe technique, and a clear aesthetic goal: lift without transforming.
The result is a younger, more defined, and natural face, with preserved expression and restored firmness.
It is the ideal choice for those living in Ponta Delgada (Azores) seeking rejuvenation with safety and elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Does the thread lift treatment hurt?
It is well tolerated and performed with local anesthesia for total comfort.
2) When will I see results?
The lifting effect is immediate, with continuous improvement in the following weeks.
3) How long does the effect last?
Between 12 and 24 months, depending on the type of thread and skin characteristics.
4) Will I look artificial?
No. The goal is naturalness and facial harmony, without exaggeration.
5) How many threads are needed?
It depends on the area and degree of sagging. Usually between 4 and 8 threads per session.
6) Is there recovery time?
No. You can resume activities on the same day, avoiding exertion in the first 48 hours.
7) Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes, especially with biostimulators and botulinum toxin.
8) Are the threads visible or palpable?
No. They are completely under the skin and are safely reabsorbed.
9) Is it safe for all skin types?
Yes, as long as there is no active infection or local inflammatory diseases.
10) Where to get thread lifts in the Azores?
At OnlySmile in Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), with certified medical technique and rigorous follow-up.
Protocolos & Parcerias
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Associação Agrícola De São Miguel • Grupo Bensaude • Camara Municipal De Ponta Delgada • Grupo Finançor • Montepio Geral – Associação Mutualista • Grupo Sata • Grupo EDA • Cooperativa Agrícola Do Norte • ACP Automóvel Club De Portugal • Açorlider Tabacaria • ALZA • Associação Humanitária Dos Bombeiros Voluntários De Ponta Delgada • Associação Sindical Dos Profissionais De Polícia • Azores Padel Club • Azoróptica • Camara Municipal Da Lagoa • Cartão Do Idoso – Município De Ponta Delgada • Coliseu Micaelense • Clube De Atividade Física Dos Bombeiros De Ponta Delgada • Clube Naval De Ponta Delgada • Fundação Inatel • Grupo Ilha Verde • Grupo Lince Hotels • Grupo R – Construções • José Cymbron • Liga Dos Combatentes • Ordem Dos Advogados • Ordem Dos Enfermeiros • Ordem Engenheiros Região Açores • Portos Dos Açores • Prolacto • Servicater • Serviços Municipalizados De Ponta Delgada • Sindescom • Sindicado Dos Enfermeiros • Sindicato Democrático Dos Açores • Sindicato Profesores Região Autónoma Dos Açores • Sintap • Unipelago
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If you are looking for thread lift treatment in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel (Azores), the best decision starts with personalized assessment, detailed explanation of options, and dedicated medical follow-up. At OnlySmile, we combine science, technique, and aesthetic sensitivity — because lifting the face is also about lifting confidence.
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