Thread Lift vs Surgical Neck Lift

When it comes to addressing sagging neck skin and visible signs of ageing in the neck area, patients often find themselves choosing between two primary options: a surgical neck lift or a non-surgical thread lift. At Face and Eyes Aesthetics, we believe in providing comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision about which procedure might be right for you.

Understanding Your Options

The Surgical Neck Lift

A traditional surgical neck lift (platysmaplasty) involves:

  • Surgical incisions typically behind the ears and under the chin
  • Removal of excess skin and fat
  • Tightening of the platysma muscle
  • General anaesthesia in most cases
  • 2-3 weeks of recovery time
  • More dramatic and longer-lasting results (5-10 years)
  • Higher cost and greater risk of complications

The Thread Lift Procedure

A neck thread lift, performed by Global Trainer Dr. Mike Shenouda, involves:

  • Minimally invasive placement of specialised medical threads
  • No removal of skin or tissue
  • Local anaesthesia only
  • 1-3 days of minimal downtime
  • Natural-looking results lasting 12-18 months
  • Lower cost and fewer risks
  • Progressive improvement as collagen production increases

Find out more about Neck Thread Lift by click here

Key Differences: Making Your Decision

Recovery Time and Downtime

Surgical Neck Lift:

  • Requires 2-3 weeks of recovery
  • Visible bruising and swelling for 10-14 days
  • Limited neck movement during recovery
  • Time off work typically required

Thread Lift:

  • Return to normal activities within 24-48 hours
  • Minimal swelling that typically resolves within a week
  • No significant movement restrictions
  • Many patients return to work the next day

Results and Longevity

Surgical Neck Lift:

  • More dramatic transformation
  • Removes excess skin completely
  • Results last 5-10 years
  • One-time procedure for long-term results

Thread Lift:

  • Subtle but noticeable improvement
  • Lifts and tightens without removing tissue
  • Results last 12-18 months
  • Can be repeated for maintained results
  • Progressive improvement as collagen production increases

Risk Profile

Surgical Neck Lift:

  • Higher risk of complications (infection, scarring, nerve damage)
  • Risks associated with general anaesthesia
  • Longer recovery means more potential for complications

Thread Lift:

  • Minimal risk profile
  • No general anaesthesia required
  • Quick recovery reduces complication potential
  • When performed by an expert like Dr. Shenouda, risks are further minimised

The Advantage of Expertise: Dr. Shenouda's Approach

At Face and Eyes Aesthetics, our neck thread lifts are performed by Dr. Mike Shenouda, a Global Trainer who teaches doctors worldwide how to perform these advanced techniques. This expertise translates to several advantages:

  1. Optimised Thread Placement: Dr. Shenouda's advanced knowledge of facial anatomy allows for precise thread placement that maximises lifting effects while maintaining natural movement.
  2. Customised Approach: Rather than a one-size-fits-all technique, Dr. Shenouda tailors each procedure to the patient's unique anatomy and concerns.
  3. Advanced Thread Selection: As a trainer, Dr. Shenouda has extensive experience with various thread types and can select the optimal threads for your specific needs.
  4. Complication Prevention: His role as an educator means he's particularly skilled at preventing and managing any potential complications.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Each Procedure?

Ideal for Surgical Neck Lift:

  • Significant skin laxity and excess
  • Deep neck bands that require muscle repair
  • Desire for a one-time procedure with long-lasting results
  • Willing to accept longer downtime for more dramatic results
  • Generally healthy enough for surgery and general anaesthesia

Ideal for Thread Lift:

  • Mild to moderate skin laxity
  • Early signs of neck ageing
  • Desire to avoid surgery and general anaesthesia
  • Limited time available for recovery
  • Preference for progressive, natural-looking results
  • Patients in their 30s-60s

Combining Approaches for Enhanced Results

For many patients, the best results come from combining approaches. Dr. Shenouda often recommends complementary treatments alongside thread lifts:

  • Skin tightening treatments to enhance collagen production
  • Strategic dermal fillers to address volume loss
  • Anti-wrinkle injections to relax platysmal bands
  • Laser treatments to improve skin texture and tone

Making Your Decision

The choice between a surgical neck lift and a thread lift depends on your specific concerns, desired results, recovery time availability, and risk tolerance. During your consultation at Face and Eyes Aesthetics, Dr. Shenouda will:

  1. Assess your neck anatomy and skin quality
  2. Discuss your aesthetic goals
  3. Explain the expected results from each approach
  4. Recommend the procedure best suited to your needs

Whether you choose a thread lift or surgical option, working with an experienced specialist ensures the best possible outcome.

Book your consultation with Dr. Shenouda today to discover which neck rejuvenation approach is right for you.