PDO thread lift (French thread lift) for non-surgical face lifting: address sagging in the face and neck, define the jawline and stimulate collagen production. Natural lifting without surgery in Mersin with Dr. Doğan Uysal.
A PDO (polydioxanone) thread lift, popularly known as the "French thread lift", is a minimally invasive treatment that uses specialised absorbable threads placed under the skin to lift and tighten facial tissue. Compared with a surgical face lift, it stands out for its much shorter recovery period and lower risk profile.
PDO threads are fully absorbed by the body; during this process they stimulate collagen synthesis, improving skin density and elasticity over the long term. In this way, in addition to the mechanical lifting effect, skin quality also improves.
Types of PDO Threads
▸Mono threads: smooth threads used for skin tightening and collagen stimulation.
▸Cog threads: barbed threads used for a pronounced lifting and suspension effect.
▸Screw threads: spiral-shaped threads used to add volume and filler-like fullness.
Treatment Areas
▸Cheek and mid-face sagging
▸Jawline (jowl) and neck sagging
▸Brow lift (non-surgical brow lift)
▸Tightening around the eye area and under the eyes
▸Neck bands (Nefertiti lift)
The Procedure
Local anaesthesia is applied before the procedure, so that the treatment is comfortable. The threads are placed under the skin via fine cannulas. The procedure takes about 45–60 minutes. Mild swelling and tenderness after the treatment resolve within a few days.
Results begin to be visible immediately and, with the effect of collagen stimulation, reach their full potential within 2–3 months. The duration of the effect is typically 12–18 months.
Possible Side Effects After a PDO Thread Lift
As with any medical procedure, side effects may occur with a thread lift. The information below is general; an individual assessment is made during your consultation.
▸Common and temporary: tenderness at entry points, oedema, bruising and a sensation of tightness
▸In the first few days, mild puckering or a dimpled appearance of the skin; usually resolves spontaneously
▸A feeling of restricted mouth opening and facial expression lasting a few days
▸Less frequent: asymmetry, palpability of the thread ends, prolonged oedema
▸Rare: infection, thread migration or visibility of the thread through the skin
If you notice any symptom that is unexpected, severe or prolonged, please contact the clinic; an assessment appointment will be scheduled.
The procedures on this page are performed at the clinic in Mezitli/Mersin by medical doctor Dr. Doğan Uysal. An in-person examination is carried out prior to the procedure; suitability, potential risks and the plan are determined individually. To book, please use the contact page. Results vary from person to person. Any treatment plan is subject to physician assessment.
Last reviewed: 18 September 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a thread lift painful?
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Because local anaesthesia is applied, pain is not felt during the procedure. Afterwards, a few days of mild tenderness and tightness are normal.
What is the recovery process like?
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Most patients return to their social life after 2–3 days. In the first 2 weeks, avoid opening the mouth excessively, facial massage and sleeping face-down.
Are the threads noticeable?
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Once placed, the threads are not felt. PDO threads are fully absorbed by the body within 6–8 months; collagen stimulation continues throughout this process.
How does it differ from a surgical face lift?
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A thread lift is minimally invasive; it does not require general anaesthesia, a long recovery period or scars. It is one of the methods considered for a moderate appearance of sagging. For advanced sagging, surgery may be more effective; this is evaluated together during consultation.
What is a PDO thread lift (French thread lift)?
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A PDO (polydioxanone) thread lift is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation method that uses specialised absorbable threads to lift the skin and stimulate collagen production. It is also known as the French thread lift and is used to address sagging in the face, neck and brow area.
Is a PDO thread lift painful?
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Local anaesthesia is applied before the thread lift. A mild sensation of tightness may be felt during the procedure, but significant pain is not expected. Mild tenderness for 2–3 days after the procedure is normal.
When are results seen after a PDO thread lift and how long do they last?
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Results become visible immediately after the procedure and become more pronounced over the following weeks as collagen production increases. The duration of the effect typically ranges from 12–18 months depending on the individual and the type of thread used.
Who is a suitable candidate for a PDO thread lift?
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A PDO thread lift is suitable for people with mild to moderate facial sagging, brow ptosis or neck laxity. It is not performed on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals or those with an active autoimmune condition. A prior in-person assessment with Dr. Doğan Uysal is required to determine suitability.
What is the recovery process like after a PDO thread lift?
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Mild swelling and bruising may occur for 5–7 days after the thread lift. Vigorous facial movement and massage should be avoided during the first week. Most patients return to daily life within 3–5 days. For a detailed recovery guide, please see our blog article.
Where can I get a PDO thread lift in Mersin?
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In Mersin, the Dr. Doğan Uysal Clinic in Mezitli offers PDO thread lift procedures. Non-surgical lifting is provided using French thread lift and mono thread techniques.
What is the difference between a thread lift and a surgical face lift?
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A surgical face lift provides long-lasting results but requires general anaesthesia and a long recovery period. A PDO thread lift, on the other hand, is performed in 30–60 minutes under local anaesthesia and same-day return to activity is possible. In mild to moderate sagging, the thread lift is often considered as a first-line option.
What should be avoided after a PDO thread lift?
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During the first week after a thread lift, facial massage and strenuous exercise should be avoided. Sauna, hammam and steamy environments should be postponed for the first 4 weeks. During the first 2 weeks, activities that strain the mouth (such as chewing gum) should be limited.
