The Breast Thread Procedure and Recovery: What Is Involved

Procedures vary between providers, and because breast use is not an established, standardised treatment, there is no single agreed method. This page describes what is commonly reported. It is part of our guide to breast thread procedures.

Assessment

A clinician should take a medical history, examine your breasts and discuss goals, risks and alternatives. Medical conditions, bleeding tendency, skin infections and allergies matter.

The procedure

• The skin is cleaned and the area marked
• Local anaesthetic is usually given
• Threads, loaded in fine needles or cannulas, are passed under the skin in planned patterns
• Some threads are left in place; the needle is withdrawn
• Treatment commonly takes up to an hour or so

Immediately afterwards

Bruising, swelling, tenderness, tightness and small puncture marks are common. Some people feel the threads or notice pulling when they move.

Aftercare

Providers commonly advise:

• Avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a period
• Avoiding tight underwire bras or pressure as instructed
• Sleeping on your back
• Avoiding saunas, hot baths and massage of the area
• Using prescribed or recommended pain relief

Follow the specific instructions you receive.

How long do effects last?

Absorbable threads dissolve over months. Any effect related to the thread itself is expected to fade as it is absorbed, although some providers claim collagen effects last longer. Published breast data are limited.

When to contact a doctor

Fever, spreading redness, severe pain, discharge, a thread poking through the skin, skin dimpling or a new lump. Read our safety and warning signs page.