Non-surgical lifting: HIFU or a thread lift?
These are the two non-surgical lifting techniques we are asked about most. They do not work the same way and are not designed for the same thing. Here is a clear comparison, and what neither of them can do.
The short answer
Neither is better in general. HIFU works on firmness without needles, with a gradual change; a thread lift gives a tightening effect in specific areas, under local anaesthesia. And neither replaces a surgical facelift: if your case needs one, the doctor will tell you frankly.
Comparison
Prices include VAT and apply in October 2026; the quote is confirmed in writing after the assessment.
| HIFU facial | Thread lift | |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Focused ultrasound, no needles or incisions | Absorbable threads placed under the skin |
| For | Mild or moderate sagging | Areas that have lost firmness |
| Comfort | Heat may be felt during the session | Local anaesthesia |
| Session length | 30 to 90 minutes depending on the area | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Effect | Gradual, as the skin produces collagen | Tightening effect; the threads can stimulate collagen |
| Afterwards | Temporary redness, slight swelling or tenderness | A small bruise or swelling for a few days |
| Price from | €150 · per area | €350 · per thread |
HIFU: no needles, gradual effect
The device concentrates ultrasound energy under the skin, down to the superficial muscle layer called the SMAS, without damaging the surface. This targeted heat can stimulate collagen, which is why the change is assessed in the following weeks. It is used on the brows, cheeks, jawline, double chin, neck and décolleté. More details on the HIFU facial page.
Thread lift: a tightening effect under local anaesthesia
Barbed threads have small barbs that anchor in the tissue. The doctor marks the areas, applies local anaesthesia and inserts the threads along those lines. They are absorbable: the body eliminates them over time. The number of threads depends on the area and the condition of the skin. More details on the thread lift page.
What neither of them does
Neither HIFU nor threads replace a surgical facelift, and their effect is more discreet. Nor do they add volume: if what is missing is volume in an area such as the jawline, the doctor may talk to you about jawline filler; if it is a general loss of firmness, about Sculptra®.
How the decision is made
It all starts with an assessment of your skin and your concern. As a rule:
- Mild or moderate sagging, and you would rather avoid needles: HIFU usually makes sense.
- Specific areas that have lost firmness and you want a tightening effect: the doctor may suggest threads.
- Pronounced sagging: the doctor tells you frankly whether a non-surgical technique makes sense.
In every case we confirm the plan and the quote in writing before starting.
«Can every patient have the same procedures without an individual assessment?»
Which is better, HIFU or a thread lift?
Neither is better in general: it depends on the degree of sagging, the area and what you are looking for. The doctor explains this after assessing your skin.
How much does a non-surgical lift cost?
HIFU facial starts at €150 per area, with prices for groups of areas on its page. A thread lift costs €350 per thread; the number of threads is decided in consultation. The quote is always confirmed in writing.
When does the change show?
With HIFU, the change is usually gradual over the following weeks, because it depends on the collagen the skin produces. With threads, the doctor explains in consultation what you can expect in your case.
Can they be combined?
Sometimes, yes, depending on the area and your skin. The doctor suggests a plan, and we also tell you if nothing needs to be done.
Ask for your quote
Write to us on WhatsApp with the area you are interested in: the doctor assesses your case in consultation and gives you a written quote, with no obligation to start.
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