Thread Lift vs Dermal Fillers
Two approaches to facial lifting and volumisation — understanding the difference.
Thread Lift
Full guide →Dermal Fillers
Full guide →| Category | Thread Lift | Dermal Fillers |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | Lift sagging skin with dissolvable threads that stimulate collagen. | Restore volume and contour the face using hyaluronic acid gel. |
| Best for | Mid-face sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds, brow lifting, jawline definition, neck laxity | Nasolabial folds, marionette lines, cheek volume, tear troughs, temple hollowing, hand rejuvenation |
| Treatment time | 45-90 minutes | 30-60 minutes depending on areas treated |
| Pain / Discomfort | Moderate Moderate (3/5) — performed under local anaesthetic | Mild Low to moderate (2/5) — topical or injectable anaesthetic used |
| Downtime | Mild (3–7 days) 5-7 days — swelling, bruising, and tenderness expected | Minimal (1–2 days) Minimal — 24-48 hours of potential swelling and bruising |
| Time to see results | Immediate lifting effect; continued improvement over 3-6 months as collagen forms around threads | Immediate, with final results after swelling settles (2-4 weeks) |
| Results last | 12-24 months | 6-18 months depending on product and area |
| Average cost (Ireland) | €800–€2,500 | €250–€500 per syringe |
| Sessions needed | 1 session, with optional maintenance at 12-18 months | 1 session, with top-up every 6-18 months |
| Injectable | No | Yes |
| Good for first-timers | No | Yes |
| Areas treated | Mid-faceJowlsBrowNeck | CheeksNasolabial foldsTear troughsJawlineChinTemplesLips |
How they work differently
Lift sagging skin with dissolvable threads that stimulate collagen. Restore volume and contour the face using hyaluronic acid gel. While both are offered by verified aesthetic practitioners, they work through different biological mechanisms and target different concerns, meaning they are often complementary rather than directly competing options.
Choose Thread Lift if…
- Your main concerns include mid-face sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds, brow lifting
- You want to treat specific areas like mid-face, jowls, brow
Choose Dermal Fillers if…
- Your main concerns include nasolabial folds, marionette lines, cheek volume, tear troughs
- You want to treat specific areas like cheeks, nasolabial folds, tear troughs
- Minimal downtime is important — you want to return to normal activities quickly
- You prefer a more comfortable, lower-pain treatment experience
- This is your first aesthetic treatment and you want a well-established starting point
Common questions
Can I have both Thread Lift and Dermal Fillers?
Many patients combine these treatments as part of a comprehensive skin programme. A qualified practitioner can advise on sequencing — some combinations can be done on the same day, while others work better spaced apart. Always discuss your full treatment plan with your practitioner before booking.
Which should I try first?
Dermal Fillers tends to be more approachable for first-timers. It has a well-understood safety profile and most new patients feel comfortable starting here.
Can I switch from Thread Lift to Dermal Fillers?
Yes — there is no obligation to continue with any treatment indefinitely. If your goals or circumstances change, switching is completely possible. Discuss the timing and any necessary considerations (such as waiting for previous treatments to fully resolve) with your practitioner before making changes to your plan.