A thread lift is a procedure that uses temporary sutures to create a visible lift of the skin. Instead of removing the excess skin through surgery, the surgeon lifts it and stitches it up. The procedure stimulates collagen production and has a minimal recovery period. It is a good alternative to Botox.
While the results are impressive, it can cause side effects and the cost can be high. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to thread facelifts that still offer minimal recovery time.
4 Alternatives to Thread Lift
These four non-invasive procedures are great alternatives to thread lifts.
1. Botox and Dermal Fillers
Injectables are the gentlest thread lift alternative. Also known as a liquid facelift, injectables offer a safe, affordable and effective solution with very little downtime.
Hyaluronic fillers offer a temporary lift and can help restore volume. Dermal fillers are typically combined with Botox to smooth wrinkles and raise the brows.
How Long do the Results Last?
Injectable results can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of product that’s used.
2. Fat Transfer
A fat transfer procedure works very similarly to injectables, but instead of using dermal fillers and Botox, your own fat is added to various areas of the face to lift sagging skin.
Fat is harvested through liposuction (usually in the thighs and abdomen) and typically added to the temples and cheeks.
The procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed under light sedation. Recovery takes just a few weeks.
How Long do the Results Last?
Facial fat transfer is a semipermanent procedure. In most cases, surgeons overfill areas because some of the fat will be metabolized. Any fat that remains after six months is considered permanent because the cells have established themselves and will likely remain over the long-term.
3. Thermage
Thermage uses radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production and tighten existing collagen. In addition to smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, it can also lift the cheeks, brows and jawline.
The procedure affects all layers of the skin, so it can be used on numerous areas of the body. Each session lasts anywhere from 40-90 minutes, depending on the size of the area(s) being treated.
How Long do the Results Last?
The results of Thermage can last up to six months. For some patients, the results can last years. It all depends on the condition of the skin at the time of treatment and the patient’s natural aging process.
4. Ultherapy
Ultherapy is another collagen-stimulating procedure that can help treat wrinkles and tighten sagging skin in the neck, face, chest and brow areas.
The procedure uses heat energy to promote collagen production. It treats three layers: muscle, skin and surface level.
Ultherapy sessions can last 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the targeted area.
How Long do the Results Last?
The effects of Ultherapy can last up to two years. A good anti-aging skincare routine can help maintain your results.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each procedure before making your final decision. Each has its benefits, drawbacks and limitations. However, they can all help you achieve the results you desire.