Signs of ageing, such as sagging skin or fine lines, can prompt many to explore solutions like skin tightening and lifting treatments. Two options in non-surgical aesthetics are thread lift and Ultherapy. Both offer good results, but each has distinct approaches, benefits and costs.
This guide will provide a detailed comparison of these treatments, outlining their key differences and helping you decide which might be better suited to your skin goals. From understanding what each treatment involves to breaking down the cost and treatment areas, you’ll gain a comprehensive insight into thread lift and Ultherapy.
What is a Thread Lift?
A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure to lift sagging skin using dissolvable threads, typically made of polydioxanone (PDO) or poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). These threads are placed under the skin using a thin needle and act as a physical lift for loose skin and a collagen booster.
As the threads gradually dissolve, they stimulate collagen production, promoting a firmer, more youthful appearance of the skin. This dual action of lifting and collagen stimulation makes thread lift popular for those targeting sagging skin without going under the knife.
Key Benefits of Thread Lift
- Immediate lifting results that leave your skin looking firmer and rejuvenated right after the procedure.
- It encourages collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity and firmness over time.
- It targets specific areas, including the cheeks, jawline, brows and neck, to precisely address sagging or loose skin in those key areas.
- It has a minimal recovery time, so you can quickly return to your daily routine.
What is Ultherapy?
Unlike a thread lift, Ultherapy treatment does not require injections or threads. Instead, it strengthens the skin’s foundation from beneath the surface.
Key Benefits of Ultherapy
- FDA-cleared for non-surgical lifting, offering a safe and effective alternative to invasive procedures for those seeking to enhance their appearance without surgery.
- Reaches deeper tissue layers, including the SMAS layer (the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts), allowing for significant lifting and skin quality improvement.
- Treats a variety of areas, such as the face, neck and décolletage. It targets common areas of concern like sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful look.
- Long-lasting results that can last over a year, giving you a refreshed appearance with minimal disruption to your daily routine and little to no downtime.
Thread Lift vs Ultherapy: Cost Comparison
Cost is often a critical factor when choosing between thread lift and Ultherapy. Here’s a breakdown of the price for each procedure:
- Thread lift. Costs range from $1,000–$5,000 per pair of threads. The price may be more affordable for smaller areas depending on the number of threads used.
- Ultherapy. At Sozo Clinic, an Ultherapy session starts at $3000. While it may cost more upfront, Ultherapy offers broader coverage and deeper treatment layers.
Factors Influencing Cost
- Treatment area. Larger areas or multiple zones will increase the overall expense for both treatments.
- Number of sessions. Multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal results, depending on your desired outcomes.
- Clinic expertise and location. Clinics with skilled practitioners or those based in premium locations may charge a premium for their services.
Whether thread lift or Ultherapy, both treatments are long-term investments in skin rejuvenation.
5 Key Differences Between Thread Lift and Ultherapy
While both treatments aim to tighten and lift the skin, their methodologies and results differ significantly. Here’s a comparison of their processes and benefits:
1. Procedure and Technology
Thread lift is a procedure that involves inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift sagging areas while also promoting collagen production.
In contrast, Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound technology to heat deeper skin layers, stimulating collagen production and creating a natural lifting effect.
2. Immediate Results vs Gradual Results
Thread lift provides immediate visible lifting effects right after the procedure, with improved skin firmness developing over the following months as collagen production increases.
On the other hand, Ultherapy offers gradual results, becoming noticeable over 2-3 months as collagen regenerates in the deeper tissue layers.
3. Target Areas
Thread lift is ideal for targeting specific areas of sagging skin, such as the cheeks, jawline, brows and neck.
Meanwhile, Ultherapy is ideal for larger areas like the full face, neck and décolletage.
4. Treatment Downtime
Thread lift typically involves minimal downtime, although some individuals may experience swelling, tenderness or bruising for a few days.
Ultherapy, on the other hand, has virtually no downtime, with only mild redness or swelling that usually subsides within hours.
5. Duration of Results
Thread lift results typically last around 12 to 36 months, depending on the type of threads used.
Ultherapy results can last up to 1-2 years, with many individuals having routine maintenance sessions to prolong the effects.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing between thread lift and Ultherapy depends on your skin concerns, lifestyle and goals. Here’s a quick comparison to help guide your decision:
| Consideration | Thread Lift | Ultherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Best for specific skin concerns | Ideal for targeted lifting, such as sagging cheeks, jawline or neck | Recommended for overall skin tightening, improving skin laxity and collagen production |
| Age and skin type | Typically suited for individuals aged 30-50 with mild to moderate skin sagging | Suitable for a broader range of ages and skin types with mild to severe laxity |
| Results timeline | Immediate results, with improvements continuing for a few months | Gradual results over 2-3 months as collagen regenerates |
| Treatment areas | Best for specific, targeted areas requiring lifting | Covers broader areas for overall tightening and contouring |
| Downtime | Minimal downtime but potential risk for minor bruising or swelling post-procedure | Minimal downtime |
| Budget | $1000-$5000 per pair of threads (for smaller areas, potentially more affordable) | Starts at $3000 per session (higher cost but broader coverage) |
| Pain tolerance | Generally tolerable with local anaesthesia; mild soreness after treatment | May cause mild discomfort for some individuals during the procedure; patients may request a topical numbing cream |
Consulting a professional aesthetic practitioner is highly recommended if you’re still undecided about getting a thread lift or Ultherapy. Sozo Clinic’s medical director, Dr Justin Boey, can help guide you towards the right treatment based on your needs.
Conclusion
Thread lift and Ultherapy are effective, non-invasive options for achieving lifted youthful skin. Thread lift delivers immediate results for specific areas, while Ultherapy offers deeper, gradual improvements across larger regions. The right choice depends on your goals, timeline and budget.
At Sozo Clinic, we specialise in both treatments and offer various other services, including acne scar treatments. Partner with our experienced team to explore your options and achieve stunning, natural results without surgery.
