Thread Lifts vs Face Lifts

Last month, we talked about some of the features of thread lifts – minimally invasive alternatives to face lifts that offer visible, immediate results without major surgery. However, many people wonder what the exact differences between these two procedures are, and which one might be right for them. Although both of the procedures have the same goal, they each have unique advantages and disadvantages that should be considered.

Similarities Between Thread Lifts and Face Lifts

Let’s start off with some of the key similarities between thread and face lifts. At the core, they both aim to treat the same conditions – loose skin and a loss of youthfulness in the jowls, cheeks, neck, eyebrows, or in the nasolabial area. The results for both are immediate, and the effect can be dramatic as elasticity and collagen is restored around the face. However, that’s about all they have in common.

Differences Between Thread Lifts and Face Lifts

One of the biggest bonuses of thread lifts is that they are minimally invasive, as they involve only small needles and the specially-made threads that tighten the skin and underlying tissue of the face. Face lifts, on the other hand, require major surgery, with incisions and skin/tissue removal, creating a much longer and more in-depth process overall. 

Because of this, the recovery time of thread lifts is only 1-2 days, whereas face lifts are generally closer to 4-6 weeks. In addition, thread lifts have a much lower risk of complications and infection, and the risk profile of face lifts is higher (due to the use of general anaesthesia, potential nerve or muscle damage, and so on).

Thread lifts can easily be performed with simple shots of local anaesthetic (though some choose to be sedated, making the whole process even quicker). Afterward, the pain is managed well with nothing more than Tylenol and ice packs – whereas face lift patients often need stronger painkillers as their tissue heals and regrows. 

But not everything is stacked in favour of thread lifts. They do not last as long, with an average length of about two years between sessions (as opposed to 10 or more for face lifts). There is also a limit to the amount of skin laxity they can fix, and they are best suited to younger patients in good health with just mild to moderately loose skin around the face. Face lifts target older patients who are more advanced in collagen and elasticity loss.

Cost of Thread Lifts vs. Face Lifts

Another big difference between the two procedures is the cost. As they are more intensive in prep and longevity, the average face lift costs between $6,000–$25,000 – and if you want the best results that will last for a decade, you should expect to pay at the upper end of that scale. Thread lifts, on the other hand, are much more cost-effective, averaging $1,000–$5,000 for the full procedure. As you lose collagen over time, you’ll likely realize you need more lift in your skin after two years or so. But, since the process is so quick and simple – thread lifts are often called “lunchtime face lifts”, after all – it is not nearly as disruptive as trying to plan around a full-scale face lift, which can mean taking weeks off from work or play.

Should I Get a Thread Lift of a Face Lift?

While the decision is ultimately up to you, perhaps the best way to think of it is like this: thread lifts are an easy entry point into the world of minimally invasive procedures. With a face lift, if you are not happy with the results (or if you get an inexperienced tech), there is no going back, and fixing those issues will be costly. With thread lifts, though, even if you don’t like the way you look, the lift will eventually wear off – and creating something you do like is much easier and cheaper in the future. When all is said and done and you’re ready to regain that youthful glow, thread lifts are the option that is less costly, less painful, and much less stressful overall.

If you have any other questions about this exciting new process, how it works, or what you can expect, let us know and we’ll be happy to give you all the information you need. We’re just a click away!