As non-surgical aesthetic treatments gain popularity in Pakistan’s capital, thread lifting has emerged as a top choice for individuals seeking a youthful appearance without going under the knife. Thread lift in Islamabad is widely available at top aesthetic clinics and is performed using various types of dissolvable threads that not only lift sagging skin but also stimulate natural collagen production.
But not all threads are the same—different materials, structures, and functions offer varying results, longevity, and levels of lift. In this blog, we’ll explore the main types of threads used in Islamabad, what they’re made of, how they work, and which thread type might be best for you.
What Is a Thread Lift?
A thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment in which temporary sutures (threads) are inserted beneath the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissue. Unlike a traditional facelift, it doesn’t involve cutting or removing skin. Instead, it creates a lifted, firmer look while stimulating the body’s natural collagen production.
In Islamabad, thread lifts are commonly performed for:
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Jawline and jowls
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Mid-face (cheeks)
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Brows
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Neck and chin
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Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
The type of thread used plays a crucial role in how long the results last and how dramatic the lifting effect will be.
Types of Threads Used in Islamabad Clinics
Most reputable clinics in Islamabad, such as SKN Cosmetics, Royal Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, Enfield Royal Clinic, and Cosmesurge, use three main types of threads:
1. PDO Threads (Polydioxanone)
What Are They?
PDO threads are the most commonly used threads in Islamabad and around the world. They are made from polydioxanone, a biocompatible material that has been used safely in surgical sutures for decades.
How Do They Work?
PDO threads are inserted beneath the skin using a fine needle or cannula. They offer an immediate lifting effect by physically pulling sagging tissue upward. As the body absorbs the threads (usually within 6–9 months), it triggers collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
Types of PDO Threads:
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Mono threads: Smooth, used to improve skin texture and firmness rather than lift.
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Cog threads: Barbed for better grip, used for lifting sagging skin (e.g., jawline).
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Screw threads: Coiled threads to add volume in sunken areas.
Best For:
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Mild sagging
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Skin rejuvenation
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First-time thread lift patients
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Those looking for natural, subtle results
Longevity:
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6 to 9 months of lift, with collagen effects lasting up to 12 months
Cost in Islamabad:
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PKR 35,000 to PKR 90,000, depending on the number and type of threads used
2. PLLA Threads (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)
What Are They?
PLLA threads are made of Poly-L-Lactic Acid, a stronger and longer-lasting material than PDO. This compound is also used in dermal fillers like Sculptra and is FDA-approved.
How Do They Work?
PLLA threads dissolve over a longer period (12–18 months) and are known for their collagen-boosting capabilities. They provide a gradual, natural-looking lift and are ideal for patients who want extended results without frequent repeat sessions.
PLLA threads may not provide an immediate, dramatic lift like cog PDO threads, but they build volume and structure over time through collagen regeneration.
Best For:
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Moderate skin laxity
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Deeper wrinkles and folds
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Patients aged 40+
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Long-term rejuvenation goals
Longevity:
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Results last 12–24 months, depending on lifestyle and skin type
Cost in Islamabad:
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PKR 70,000 to PKR 130,000 depending on treatment area
3. PCL Threads (Polycaprolactone)
What Are They?
PCL threads are the newest and most durable type of thread used in Islamabad. Polycaprolactone is a biodegradable polymer that breaks down slowly and has strong collagen-stimulating properties.
How Do They Work?
PCL threads stay in the skin up to 24 months, providing structural support and a long-term lifting effect. They promote strong collagen and elastin production, making the skin appear tighter, smoother, and more youthful even after the threads dissolve.
PCL threads are often preferred for deep tissue lifting, especially in the lower face and neck, where sagging is more prominent.
Best For:
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Advanced signs of aging
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Sagging cheeks, jowls, and neck
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Long-term, high-impact results
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Patients over 45 looking for a facelift alternative
Longevity:
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18 to 24 months, with sustained collagen effects
Cost in Islamabad:
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PKR 90,000 to PKR 150,000, depending on the complexity of the lift and thread count
Which Thread Type Should You Choose?
The best thread type for you depends on several factors:
| Criteria | PDO Threads | PLLA Threads | PCL Threads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6–9 months | 12–18 months | 18–24 months |
| Strength of Lift | Moderate | Moderate | Strong |
| Collagen Stimulation | Moderate | High | Very High |
| Best For | Mild sagging, first-timers | Moderate sagging, deeper folds | Advanced aging, long-term lift |
| Cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
For younger patients (30s to early 40s) with minimal sagging, PDO threads may be more than enough. For older individuals with more prominent jowls or volume loss, PLLA or PCL threads are more suitable.
How Do Islamabad Clinics Choose Thread Type?
Reputable clinics in Islamabad tailor the treatment plan to each client. During your consultation, the dermatologist or plastic surgeon will assess:
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Your age and skin laxity
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The treatment area
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Your aesthetic goals
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Your budget
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Your skin’s healing capacity
Some practitioners even combine thread types (e.g., PDO cog for lift + mono threads for texture) to customize the results.
Are the Threads Safe?
Yes. All three thread types—PDO, PLLA, and PCL—are:
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FDA-approved
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Biodegradable and biocompatible
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Used globally for facial aesthetics and surgery
In Islamabad, leading clinics import high-quality threads from trusted Korean and European brands to ensure maximum safety and results.
Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Threads and the Right Hands
Choosing the right type of thread is only part of the equation—the skill and experience of the practitioner are equally important. Clinics in Islamabad like SKN Cosmetics, Enfield Royal, and Royal Cosmetic Surgery Clinic offer highly trained dermatologists who can assess your facial anatomy and goals to recommend the ideal thread type and technique.
Whether you want a subtle refresh or a dramatic lift, thread lifts in Islamabad are a safe, effective, and increasingly popular option, as long as you know what’s going under your skin.
Ready to lift, tighten, and glow?
Book your consultation with a licensed thread lift specialist in Islamabad and find out which thread type is best suited for your age, skin, and aesthetic goals.
