MINT Lift effectiveness – how long does it last? Why the numbers vary

Reported duration ranges from 6 to 18 months. Aggregation of over 110,000 procedures shows an average of 6–12 months[1], but prospective studies also cite reports that 50% experienced sagging again within 6 months[2]. This range arises from differences in thread type and the timing of evaluation.

How many months does the duration last in research?

It varies significantly by report. A multi-center review of over 110,000 procedures found the average duration of effect to be 6–12 months, varying by thread material and treatment site[1]. PDO thread itself tends to show ongoing breakdown over 6–8 months[1].

Conversely, some review papers organize the data as lasting 12–18 months, roughly coinciding with the time it takes for the thread to be absorbed[3]. The same paper also notes that published follow-up studies consistently report satisfaction exceeding 85%[3].

Why such a wide gap between 6 and 18 months?

Because the research design differs. Prospective studies clearly highlight the gap between the 12–18 month claims used in marketing and peer-reviewed data[2].

Prior studies cited in that paper found 50% experienced sagging again within 6 months, of which 14% had recurrence as early as 8 weeks after surgery[2]. Reports are also included showing that the lifting effect itself weakens at 6 months[2].

In other words, "how long it lasts" changes depending on whether you look at numbers from broad reviews or prospectively followed data. When hearing an explanation, confirm which type of number it is.

Is the 85% satisfaction rate straightforward to accept?

Because the numbers come from different study designs, they cannot be compared side by side. The 85% is a figure summarized in a review paper[3], and differs from the 50% report within 6 months in both the timing of evaluation, patient selection, and threads used[2].

The 110,000-case review itself, being anonymized data, lacks satisfaction scores and objective measures, as stated in the paper[1]. Looking at how something was measured is more practically useful than the size of the number.

Who is less likely to see lasting effects?

Age and thread count are two clues. Retrospective multi-center analysis identified being 43 years or older and using more than 10 threads as factors leading to dissatisfaction after PDO thread lift[4].

Patients meeting both criteria tend to feel the cosmetic improvement is insufficient and seek follow-up treatment at higher rates[4]. When a recommendation for many threads comes up, that is a moment to ask again whether the threads can reach the appropriate depth.

What happens to threads once inserted?

They do not remain in their original shape. Research tracking thread diameter changes with ultrasound confirms the threads change over time on imaging[5].

Reports exist on short-term outcomes specifically of MINT Lift[6], but objective data demonstrating long-term lift volume is not found. For now, duration discussion relies on inference from adjacent thread-lift research.

How does the Japanese medical society position it?

As weakly recommended. Thread lift for facial wrinkles and sagging skin offers temporary improvement, but because the effect is modest and duration short, thorough explanation is necessary; it is rated as recommendation level 2 (weakly recommended)[7].

This phrasing aligns well with the current situation where numbers vary across studies. It does not mean there is no effect, but rather that expectations should be aligned in advance — a meaning closer to "advance preparation is needed."

Four things to confirm at your consultation

First, identify which study the stated duration comes from[2]. Second, whether your sagging skin is at the stage threads can address, or at the stage for surgical options[4]. Third, the reason for the recommended thread count[4]. Fourth, what to do after the effect fades[1].

Sagging severity and skin thickness differ by individual, and the numbers mentioned here are results from population studies. They do not predict how long results will last for your own face. Since determining how far threads can change your appearance requires in-person examination, please confirm this together at your consultation.