Threadlift or mini facelift at 38? (photos)

Question

I am 38 and have been unhappy with my lower facial sagging for a couple of years however it is getting more severe. Would a threadlift give me the results I am looking for in the third pic (until I get a mini facelift in my 40's) or would a mini facelift be better now? My aim would be to achieve a more heart shaped face in the same way as when I pull the skin upwards from the earlobe area in the third pic. I have tried fillers however don't like the look of filler on or above the cheek

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

I would not recommend a thread lift procedure, as the results can be unpredictable. Generally, undergoing a facelift at a younger age tends to provide more lasting results, effectively addressing concerns such as jowling and skin laxity. The image you provided does not include a profile view. If you are currently seeking a non-surgical option, Renuvion may be beneficial, as it can enhance the appearance of your neck and jawline.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

I do not recommend a thread lift as it does not last. A mini face lift can be done. However, one thing you can do is a lip lift. A lip lift does 4 things: shortens the distance between your nose and upper lip, increases the mucosa of the upper lip, increases the incisor show and pulls up the corners. This takes about 1 hour to perform under local anesthesia and costs $3,000. This may significantly improve your peri oral region.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Dilip D. Madnani, MD, FACS · Answer

Both options are wonderful for you, however, the thread lift would only last about a year and will not give you the same Lift that you’re showing in your third picture. The best option for the third picture would be a facelift.  That would give you the best and most natural and long lasting result.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I have seen many patients who had thread lifts  and not a single one thought it was at all worthwhile. A facelift might be an option although you are a bit on the young side

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; Instead of Thread Lift or Mini Facelift; I suggest for you Endoscopic Midface Lift or Temporal Facelift with an incision; that will stick through the hair. You will not have a scar in front of the belt and you can get the look; what you desire for.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest doing micro-needling with radiofrequency, like Secret, to help tighten. I am not a fan of threads since no skin is removed and usually some thread breaks on one side and not on the other side so you become uneven. The dissolvable threads don't last long enough to do much good and the permanent threads have several risks, including poking through your skin in places you don't desire.  If you do later have a lift, the threads are in the way and cause scar tissue.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Facial aesthetics are primarily determined by bone structure.
Issues in the lower 1/3 of the face are therefore related to the shape and size of the mandible.
In your case, your mandible is lacking in both vertical heights and most likely forward projection. we need to see profile pictures in order to determine projection adequately.
The problem is not really with the soft tissues I’d rather the lack of a foundation to support the soft tissues.
Because growing a bigger mandible isn’t really feasible most plastic surgeons will rely on soft tissue solutions to treat problems which are primarily based on skeletal structure.
I’m not been impressed by what’s done long-term with thread lifts.
Facelift may be an option but usually does much better when the procedure Is done later in life. 
During in person consultations, ask plastic surgeons to show you their entire collection of before, and after pictures of previous patients who had similar facial characteristics on patients who were about the same age.
This will tell you what you can expect for whatever procedure the surgeon recommends.
Whenever we apply soft tissue solutions to treat problems which are primarily based on skeletal structure, we will get partial improvements at best. 
Treating your concerns is in reality actually quite challenging.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD