There have never been more options for patients seeking ways to smooth and tighten their neck, chin and jawline.
Topical treatments can only go so far to offset the ageing process and the downward pull of gravity. Neck lift surgery, though effective, is a commitment not everyone is interested in making. For patients who fall between these two opposite poles, we’ve seen tremendous growth in less invasive and nonsurgical procedures for neck contouring.
Among these innovations are MyEllevate and thread lifting. Both procedures utilise sutures to suspend the neck tissues, but there are critical differences in terms of technique, recovery time, ideal candidates and expected duration of results.
Let’s explore how these two procedures compare. Equipped with this information, you can have a more informed discussion with Dr Ellis Choy about which approach might be most appropriate for you.
MyEllevate Explained
MyEllevate uses a light-guided suture suspension system to enhance neck and jawline definition. During the procedure, a specially designed permanent suture is woven beneath the skin through small puncture sites. This creates a supportive network that holds the underlying muscles, glands and tissues in an elevated position.
Key Features:
- Less invasive than neck lift surgery
- Performed under local anaesthesia
- Small puncture points rather than surgical incisions
- Typically completed in about one hour
- Sutures are permanent
Recovery and Results
MyEllevate recovery generally involves less downtime and discomfort than a traditional surgical neck lift. On average, patients experience an initial downtime period of three to five days, with full recovery reached at two weeks. A supportive neck garment is worn to assist with healing.
Scarring after MyEllevate is usually minimal due to the small puncture entry points. Preliminary results may be visible immediately. While individual outcomes and recovery experiences vary, the results of this procedure may last for several years.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, MyEllevate involves certain side effects and risks, including:
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Temporary discomfort, tightness or numbness
- Infection
- Asymmetry
- Suture-related complications
- Inflammation around suture points
Suitable Candidates
MyEllevate may be considered for adults who have mild to moderate skin laxity in the neck area and are seeking improvement without invasive surgery. The procedure requires sufficient skin elasticity to achieve tissue repositioning.
Thread Lift Explained
A thread lift uses multiple medical-grade, dissolvable threads to create lift in the neck area. The threads have small cones or barbs that, when inserted beneath the skin through small entry points, grip the underlying tissues. The threads are then adjusted and anchored to elevate and smooth the skin.
Key Features:
- Performed under local anaesthesia
- Minimal entry points required (no incisions)
- No tissue removal involved
- Typically completed in 30-60 minutes
- Threads are biodegradable
Recovery and Results
Thread lift recovery generally involves minimal downtime. Most activities can typically be resumed within three to five days. Strenuous exercise and activities should be avoided for two weeks. Some initial swelling and discomfort may occur during the first week, then gradually subside.
Results are visible as soon as the threads are inserted due to their physical lifting effect. This effect starts to decrease around six to 12 months after the procedure as the sutures dissolve. Scarring is minimal.
Potential Risks and Complications
The risks of thread lifting procedures include:
- Temporary swelling and bruising
- Thread visibility
- Asymmetry
- Infection
- Thread migration
- Temporary skin irregularities
- Dimpling or puckering at entry points
- Thread breakage or extrusion
- Tissue reaction to threads
Suitable Candidates
Thread lifting may be considered for adults experiencing early signs of neck laxity who prefer a nonsurgical approach. The procedure requires good skin elasticity and minimal excess skin to achieve a satisfactory result.
MyEllevate vs Thread Lift: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Each patient is unique, with different anatomy and goals. Dr Choy will work with you to understand your expectations and recommend a procedure that’s suited to your individual needs. To help you understand your options, and their benefits and limitations, we’ve put together this simple comparison.
|
MyEllevate |
Thread Lift |
|
|
Procedure |
|
|
|
Scarring |
|
|
|
Recovery |
|
|
|
Candidate Suitability |
|
|
|
Cost Considerations |
|
|
|
Longevity and Results |
|
|
Making an Informed Choice
Deciding between MyEllevate and thread lifting requires more than understanding both procedures. It also requires a thorough professional assessment of your individual needs. During a consultation, Dr Choy evaluates factors like:
- Skin elasticity and thickness
- Degree of tissue laxity
- Prior procedures or treatments
- Medical history
- Lifestyle factors
This helps ensure his procedure recommendations align with both your anatomical needs and aesthetic goals.
The consultation is also an opportunity to learn more about both procedures in more detail and ask any questions you have about the techniques. Ideally, you should leave this appointment feeling like you can make a confident decision about your choice of procedure and provider.
Explore Your Options Further With Dr Ellis Choy
The next step in understanding whether a thread lift or MyEllevate might be suitable for you is to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr Choy. Dr Choy performs the MyEllevate procedure through his Sydney plastic surgery clinic. Thread lift treatments are available through the experienced clinicians at AF Aesthetics.
Contact Dr Choy’s practice on 02 8962 9388 to arrange your consultation, or submit an enquiry through our website at your convenience.
Categories: