How Long Do Novathreads Last? Understanding Their Longevity and Effectiveness

If you are considering non-surgical skin rejuvenation, one of the key questions you might have is how long do Novathreads last. These absorbable PDO sutures provide an effective lift and collagen boost without invasive surgery, making them a popular choice for facial contouring. Understanding the longevity of Novathreads helps set realistic expectations for results and maintenance needs.

Novathreads typically last between 6 to 12 months before dissolving, but their collagen-stimulating effects can extend results up to 18 months or longer. Factors like thread type, treatment area, and skin health influence their durability. Compared to traditional thread lifts, Novathreads often offer longer-lasting outcomes due to their specialized barbed design that ensures better tissue adherence.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Novathreads longevity, including how they compare to other thread lifts and what you can do to maximize their effectiveness. Whether you are exploring a subtle lift or long-term skin tightening, knowing how long Novathreads last will help you make an informed decision.

How Long Do Novathreads Last? A Breakdown of Their Longevity

When considering a non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatment like NovaThreads, one of the most common questions is: How long do the results last? Understanding the longevity of NovaThreads can help you set realistic expectations and decide if this treatment aligns with your aesthetic goals.

What Are NovaThreads?

NovaThreads are absorbable, biocompatible sutures made of PDO (polydioxanone) that are used to lift and tighten sagging skin. Unlike traditional facelifts, this minimally invasive procedure stimulates collagen production while providing immediate structural support to targeted areas like the cheeks, jawline, neck, and brows.

Average Longevity of NovaThreads

NovaThreads typically last between 6 to 12 months, depending on several factors, including:

  • Thread Type – NovaThreads come in barbed and smooth variants. Barbed threads often provide longer-lasting results due to their lifting capability.
  • Treatment Area – Areas with more movement (such as the mouth) may see slightly shorter longevity compared to less mobile regions (like the forehead).
  • Skin Quality & Age – Younger patients with good skin elasticity might retain results longer than older patients with significant laxity.
  • Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, sun exposure, and skincare habits can affect how long results endure.

Collagen Stimulation & Long-Term Benefits

While the threads themselves dissolve within about 6 months, their collagen-boosting effects continue to improve skin texture and firmness for up to 12-18 months post-treatment. This means that even after the threads are absorbed, patients often notice sustained improvements in skin quality.

How to Extend Your Results

To maximize the lifespan of your NovaThreads treatment, consider the following tips:

  • Follow Aftercare Instructions – Avoid excessive facial movements, harsh skincare, and strenuous exercise for the first few weeks.
  • Maintain a Healthy Skincare Routine – Use collagen-boosting products with ingredients like retinoids, peptides, and vitamin C.
  • Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage – Wear SPF daily to prevent premature aging.
  • Schedule Maintenance Treatments – Many patients opt for touch-ups every 12-18 months to maintain optimal lifting effects.

Final Thoughts

NovaThreads offer a semi-permediate solution for those seeking a non-surgical lift. While the threads themselves dissolve within months, the collagen remodeling they trigger can extend results well beyond a year. If you’re looking for a subtle refresh without surgery, NovaThreads may be a worthwhile investment—especially when combined with proper skincare and maintenance treatments.

What Factors Influence How Long Novathreads Last?

The longevity of Novathreads—dissolvable sutures widely used in medical and cosmetic procedures—depends on several factors. While these threads are designed to dissolve naturally over time, their actual lifespan can vary based on material composition, placement, aftercare, and individual patient factors. Understanding these variables can help patients and practitioners optimize results and ensure proper healing.

Thread Material and Composition

The type of material used in Novathreads plays a crucial role in their durability. Most dissolvable sutures are made from synthetic polymers like polydioxanone (PDO) or polyglactin, which degrade at different rates. For instance, PDO threads typically last between four to six months, whereas threads with thicker formulations might persist longer. The material’s absorption rate directly influences how long the threads remain effective before dissolving.

Placement and Technique

The area where the threads are placed affects their lifespan. Threads inserted in highly mobile areas—such as the mouth or joints—may break down faster due to constant movement and stress. Conversely, threads in less active regions, like the forehead or cheeks, may last longer. Additionally, the skill of the practitioner influences longevity; precise placement and proper tension can maximize the threads’ structural support and slow degradation.

Aftercare and Lifestyle Habits

Post-procedure care significantly impacts how long Novathreads remain intact. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous exercise, excessive facial movements, and exposure to extreme heat (like saunas) immediately after the procedure. Poor aftercare, such as rubbing the treated area or skipping recommended skincare, can accelerate thread breakdown. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may also impair healing and shorten thread lifespan due to reduced blood flow and collagen production.

Patient-Specific Factors

Individual biology plays a key role in thread longevity. Factors such as metabolism, age, and skin quality influence absorption rates. Younger patients with faster metabolisms may break down threads quicker, while older individuals with slower cell turnover might retain them longer. Skin thickness and elasticity also affect durability—thinner skin may not hold threads as securely, leading to faster degradation.

Environmental and External Factors

External conditions, such as sun exposure and pollution, can weaken threads over time. UV rays break down collagen and thread materials, while environmental pollutants may cause inflammation, speeding up dissolution. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoiding harsh skincare products can help preserve threads.

By considering these factors—material choice, placement technique, aftercare, individual biology, and environmental conditions—patients and practitioners can better predict and extend the lifespan of Novathreads for optimal results.

Novathreads Longevity: How to Maximize Their Effectiveness

When investing in Novathreads, ensuring their durability and long-term performance is key. These high-quality threads are designed for strength and resilience, but proper care and handling can significantly extend their lifespan. Below are expert-backed strategies to help you maximize the effectiveness of your Novathreads over time.

Proper Storage Matters

One of the simplest yet most overlooked aspects of maintaining Novathreads is proper storage. Exposure to moisture, sunlight, or extreme temperatures can weaken fibers over time. Always store your threads in a cool, dry place, preferably in their original packaging or an airtight container. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of stored threads, as this can cause unnecessary compression and damage.

Use the Right Needle and Tension Settings

Using the correct needle size and thread tension prevents premature wear. A needle that’s too thick or too thin for your Novathreads can fray the fibers, reducing their strength. Similarly, overly tight stitching tension puts excess strain on the thread, while loose tension leads to weaker seams. Test settings on scrap fabric before starting your project to ensure smooth stitching.

Regular Cleaning Without Stress

If working with Novathreads in washable projects, opt for gentle cleaning methods. Handwashing or using a delicate machine cycle with mild detergent preserves thread integrity. Always avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can break down fibers. Air-drying is preferable to machine drying, as excessive heat damages even the strongest threads over time.

Prevent Friction and Wear

Friction is one of the biggest factors in thread degradation. To minimize this, apply a small amount of specialized thread lubricant when working with Novathreads in high-friction projects like heavy-duty upholstery or leather stitching. Additionally, keep sewing machine parts clean and well-oiled to ensure smooth thread movement without unnecessary resistance.

Avoid Direct Sunlight in Usage

For projects exposed to sunlight—such as outdoor fabrics or decorative stitching—consider UV-protective treatments or opt for Novathreads specifically designed for UV resistance. Prolonged direct sunlight gradually weakens even the strongest threads, leading to fading and brittleness.

Rotate Thread Usage for Multi-Project Work

If you frequently engage in sewing projects, it’s wise to rotate between multiple spools of Novathreads rather than exhausting one at a time. This prevents individual spools from prolonged exposure to environmental factors when not in use, ensuring all threads remain fresh and strong when needed.

By following these best practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your Novathreads, ensuring they perform optimally in every project. Taking a few preventative steps now saves time, money, and frustration in the long run while preserving the quality of your work.

Do Novathreads Last Longer Than Other Thread Lifts? Comparing Results

When considering a non-surgical facelift, thread lifts are a popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their appearance without undergoing invasive procedures. Among the various thread lift options available, Novathreads have gained attention for their potential longevity. But how do they compare to other thread lifts in terms of durability? Let’s explore the differences.

Understanding Thread Lift Longevity

Thread lifts are designed to lift and tighten sagging skin using biodegradable sutures inserted beneath the skin’s surface. The results are temporary, as the threads eventually dissolve while stimulating collagen production. The longevity of results depends on factors such as:

  • Thread material: PDO (polydioxanone), PLA (polylactic acid), or a blend.
  • Thread design: Barbed, cogged, or smooth.
  • Skin quality & age: Thicker, younger skin may hold threads longer.
  • Aftercare: Proper maintenance can extend results.

How Do Novathreads Compare?

Novathreads are made from a highly refined PDO material and feature specialized barbs that provide a stronger grip on tissues. Here’s how they stack up against traditional thread lifts:

1. Longevity

Standard PDO threads typically last between 6–12 months before fully dissolving, with results gradually fading. In contrast, Novathreads claim to last 12–24 months, nearly doubling the duration of traditional options. The advanced anchoring mechanism helps maintain lift for a longer period.

2. Collagen Stimulation

While most PDO threads stimulate collagen, Novathreads are designed to trigger a more robust regenerative response, leading to prolonged skin tightening even after the threads dissolve.

3. Thread Strength & Retention

Some thread lifts may lose tension over time as the barbs loosen. Novathreads have a tighter barb structure, reducing slippage and providing more sustained lifting power.

Are Novathreads Worth It?

If longevity is a priority, Novathreads may be a better investment than traditional PDO threads. While they tend to be slightly more expensive, the extended duration means fewer touch-ups are required. However, individual results vary based on skin condition and lifestyle habits like smoking or sun exposure.

Final Verdict

Novathreads generally last longer than standard thread lifts, offering results that can persist up to two years. If you’re seeking a non-surgical facelift with extended benefits, they could be a superior choice—though consulting with an experienced practitioner is key to determining the best option for your needs.