Pros and Cons: Thread Lifts vs. Face Lifts
By Enliven Aesthetics. Posted May 18, 2021
Thread Lift
The thread lift is a minimally invasive alternative to a facelift. It combines a medical-grade threading material and the physical “pulling” or “lifting” of the skin to tighten the thread and reduce wrinkles. Targeted areas can include the jowls, jaw line, brow line, under eye area, forehead and cheeks. The treatment is performed by a medical professional and costs about $1500-$2750 on average. The results of one single treatment will last about one to two years depending on the severity of the patient’s aging signs.
Face Lift
A facelift is a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens facial tissue as a result of a loss in elasticity. A facelift is a more invasive, permanent solution to aging concerns when compared to other treatments such as thread lifts and/or neuromodulators (Dysport or Botox). A comprehensive facelift, or the TLC lift, targets all areas of the face, including the neck, jowls, jaw line, brow line, under eye area, forehead and cheeks, and the treatment can take about ten years off of a client’s appearance. The average cost of a facelift averages between $7,700 and $11,780, and the results should last 7-10 years or more.
PROS OF THE THREAD LIFT:
1. QUICK
The procedure typically takes less than an hour. Thread lifts have sometimes been referred to as ‘the lunchtime facelift.’
2. MINIMALLY INVASIVE
No deep cutting is required, so the risks of scarring or infection are much lower than with conventional cosmetic surgery.
3. REQUIRES NO GENERAL ANESTHETIC
That makes this procedure an option for those who have health problems that make them unsuitable candidates for major procedures.
4. MINIMAL RECOVERY TIME
There may be some initial redness or swelling, but this should resolve in a few days, certainly in less than a week. This is favorable when compared to the three-month recovery timeline after a full facelift.
5. LESS PAINFUL
Since there is no deep cutting, and much less bruising and swelling than with a conventional facelift, the pain is also comparatively less.
7. MANY AREAS CAN BE TREATED
Thread lifts can be done in areas near the eyes, around the jaw, cheeks and cheekbones. Since this is a relatively new procedure, new treatments continue to be developed.
CONS OF THE THREAD LIFT:
1. MORE TEMPORARY
The effects of a conventional facelift may be seen for as long as ten years, whereas a thread lift can be expected to last between six months to two years.
2. EFFECTIVE PRIMARILY FOR INITIAL SIGNS OF AGING
The people most likely to benefit from a thread lift are generally those in the 35-55 age group.
3. CONSIDERED A SURGICAL TREATMENT
The thread lift is considered a minor surgery, and as such, once the skin is cut there is the risk of infection, bruising, temporary discomfort, rippling off the skin and temporary numbness.
4. EFFECTS ARE SUBTLE
While subtle effects may be a negative aspect of a medical thread lift, for those who prefer a less dramatic change, the subtle results of a thread lift may be appealing. It all depends on individual preference.
5. EXPENSIVE
Some clinics charge per thread or per incision. While thread lifts are much less expensive than full facelifts, the client should account for the fact that the effects don’t last as long as those of full facelifts.
SUMMARY
Thread lifts and facelifts are facial treatments that produce different results. A thread lift is less invasive and more cost-effective than a surgical facelift, which may appeal to a younger crowd looking for small cosmetic enhancements or “quick fixes.” On the other hand, a facelift is a more permanent solution to aging concerns; it can target all areas of the face and will visibly take more years off of a client’s face than a thread lift.
If you think a thread lift might be right for you, find someone who offers this service and book a complimentary consultation. As you look, consider a medical provider who has a good online reputation, has a professional and hygienic appearance, and responds to your inquiries with care, kindness and the information you need.
Have a Question?
If you have any questions about a treatment, or would like more information, feel free to fill out the form below, or call us at, (858) 609-0866 during our business hours to speak directly to a representative.
