Yes, thread lift threads can break, though it's uncommon, and can lead to discomfort, asymmetry, or migration, but often even broken threads continue to stimulate collagen for some benefit. While a snapping sound is often just the thread settling, actual breakage can occur from excessive movement, dense tissue, or improper placement, requiring consultation with your practitioner for assessment and potential removal or repositioning.
PDO threads are completely absorbable, on average it takes 3 months. Threads may break when there is excessive facial muscle movement. You need not be overly concerned as even if the thread breaks, it still stimulates neocollagenesis to help tighten your skin. The pull will settle with time, so do not worry.
While PDO threads are generally safe, breakage can occur in some cases. The primary reasons for thread breakage include: Incorrect Placement: If threads are not placed correctly, they may bear excessive tension, leading to breakage.
PDO threads aftercare is super important to prevent complications or compromise the results. Some of the essential PDO threads do and don't include the following: Don't rub your face: Rubbing the skin after a thread lift can force the threads to move out of their place and compromise the results.
However, it's important to note that there isn't a strict limit on the number of times you can have a PDO thread lift over your lifetime. Many patients safely undergo multiple treatments over the years to maintain their desired look.
There is a reason the vast majority of board-certified facial plastic surgeons, myself included, do not offer threads and generally are opposed to their use. Simply, they don't work as advertised.
The needle thread needs to be tightened if the stitching thread shows loops on the underside. On the other hand if the needle thread is too tight, it will pull up the bobbin thread and also show it on the topside.
Practical Thread Breakage Solutions (Step-by-Step)
There can mild soreness of the treated areas which usually subsides by 3 days post-procedure. Full settling of the threadlift takes about 2 weeks. However, if you feel well and have no bruising, there is essentially no contraindication to physical activity post-procedure.
The subtle yet noticeable changes in her facial contours over the years align with the effects of this non-surgical procedure. Kim Kardashian, a trendsetter in beauty treatments, has been more open about her use of PDO threads.
While PDO thread lifts promise a quick fix, the reality is that results are often short-lived, and the procedure carries risks such as scar tissue formation, skin irregularities, and potential complications. Given the temporary nature of PDO threading, many find that the cost and downtime outweigh the benefits.
If this were to happen, patients could experience some pain and/or discomfort at or near where the thread broke. Sometimes, a snapped PDO thread may also migrate to another part of your face, which could cause asymmetry, irregularities or other suboptimal results.
Debridement and thread removal are recommended for patients with recurrent infection, thread extrusion, and subcutaneous induration. Threads can be completely or partially removed within 3 months of the procedure.
Signs Your Thread Has Gone Bad
Breaks easily when tugged → fibers are dried out. Looks faded or dusty → UV damage and dust weaken the thread.
11 steps to thread repair:
Upper thread can also break if:
The Thread tension is too tight- You will need to change the top thread tension and move it to a lower setting. Needle is bent or blunt or has a sharp eye - Replace needle. Needle is wrong size or needle has been inserted wrong - Replace needle with correct size.
Low-Quality or Old Thread: Thin, brittle, or uneven thread is more likely to snap under stitching pressure. Improper Tension Settings: If the tension on the machine's upper or bobbin thread is off, the thread has to work harder and can break.
Proper tension looks good. The stitches look even, the seams lie flat, and you see equal amounts of bobbin thread on the top of the seam (or none at all) as you see top thread on the bottom of the seam (or, again, none at all).
When talking to a plastic surgeon, avoid saying your last surgeon did a "horrible job," demanding to look exactly like a celebrity (focus on features, not a clone), mentioning price shopping with friends, or being dishonest about medications/supplements, as these raise red flags about unrealistic expectations, potential dissatisfaction, or safety issues, while focusing on realistic goals, your health, and understanding risks builds trust.
Both facial rejuvenation procedures tighten facial skin and smooth out wrinkles, but a mini-facelift might be ideal for those looking for more dramatic results, as there are limitations to the extent to which the thread that is injected into the skin can be stretched.
Absolutely. As Kim Kardashian and other celebrities demonstrate, PDO threads deliver visible, long-lasting results without the risks or downtime of surgery. Plus, the collagen-boosting effects continue to improve your skin for months after the procedure.