Endolift vs. Suspension Threads: Which is the best solution for facial sagging?
- Dra. Vera Matos
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
When discussing alternatives to surgical facelifts, many immediately think of the famous thread lifts (such as Silhouette Soft or Aptos ). For years, they have been promoted as a quick and relatively simple way to lift the skin without surgery.
However, with the advancement of technologies, much more effective and safe solutions have emerged — such as Endolift , which combines subcutaneous laser and collagen stimulation. But which of these techniques offers better long-term results? That's what we're going to analyze.
What are suspension wires?
Suspension threads are filaments (absorbable or permanent) that are inserted under the skin to "pull" and lift it.
How do they work?
The doctor inserts the threads using needles or cannulas.
These threads have small barbs (or cones) that attach to the tissue.
When pulled, they create an immediate lifting effect.
Some threads are absorbable, releasing collagen over time.
Advantages of suspension wires
They provide an immediate lifting effect .
These procedures can be performed in a doctor's office, under local anesthesia.
They are indicated for mild to moderate sagging.
Disadvantages of suspension wires
The result is limited and temporary (1 to 4 months).
Complications may arise: irregularities, asymmetries, retractions, infections.
They don't act on localized fat , they only tighten the skin.
It has little collagen biostimulation effect, acting only a few millimeters around the thread.
They often create an artificial and unnatural result .
They require frequent maintenance.
In summary: thread lifts can provide an "instant lift," but they don't address the root cause of sagging skin and have short-lived results.
What is Endolift?
Endolift is a minimally invasive , non - surgical treatment that uses a 1470 nm laser applied through optical microfibers.
How does it work?
The doctor inserts the fiber through invisible micro-holes.
The laser acts directly on subcutaneous fat and the skin's supporting tissue .
Heat promotes three effects at the same time:
Reduces localized fat (such as double chin).
It instantly tightens sagging skin .
It stimulates collagen for progressive and lasting results.
Advantages of Endolift
It addresses the root cause of sagging skin , not just its appearance.
Usually, a single session is sufficient.
Immediate results that continue to improve over the months.
Quick recovery, in just a few days.
It leaves no scars.
Natural and long-lasting results (years, not months).
Practical comparison: Endolift vs. Suspension Threads
Criterion | Suspension Wires | Endolift |
Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (needles/cannulas) | Minimally invasive (fiber optic) |
Sessions | Requires frequent maintenance. | Typically 1 session |
Immediate results | Yes, lifting effect. | Yes, skin retraction. |
Long-term results | Temporary (1–4 months) | Progressive, long-lasting (years) |
It acts on fat. | No | Yes |
Place of birth | Often artificial | Natural and harmonious |
Risk of complications | Asymmetries, retractions, infections | Very low |
Recovery | Days, but with a risk of irregularities and asymmetries in facial expression. | Dias, with predictable results, without changes in facial expressions. |
Because Endolift is superior to suspension wires.
While suspension threads act as a kind of "hook" that holds and lifts the skin, Endolift acts on the cause of sagging — reshaping the tissue from the inside out.
Main differences:
Endolift does not rely on mechanical traction , but rather on the natural regeneration of the tissue.
The results of Endolift are long-lasting (years), while the threads need to be replaced regularly.
Endolift eliminates fat (such as a double chin), something that threads can never do.
The result of Endolift is natural , without any artificial appearance.
In short: the threads lift temporarily; the Endolift truly rejuvenates .
Ideal cases for Endolift
Patients with persistent double chin and moderate to advanced sagging skin.
Who doesn't want to depend on constant maintenance procedures?
People who are looking for natural, lasting, and predictable results .
For those who value a modern and minimally invasive solution.
Final invitation
If you are looking for an effective, safe and long-lasting alternative to suspension wires, Endolift is the answer.
Schedule your appointment now at the Face Mi Institute (Porto or Braga) and discover how this treatment can redefine your face without surgery.
FAQ – Endolift vs Suspension Threads
1. Does Endolift replace suspension wires?
Yes. Endolift offers more natural, long-lasting, and complete results, without the risks associated with thread lifts.
2. Are the suspension wires permanent?
No. Even non-absorbable threads lose effectiveness over time and may need to be removed.
3. Does Endolift hurt?
No. It is performed under local anesthesia and the discomfort is minimal.
4. Are the results of Endolift immediate?
Yes, there is immediate skin retraction, but the big difference is that the results continue to improve over the months.
5. Can an endolift be performed if I'm considering a surgical facelift in the future? And what about the threads ?
Unlike threads that can interfere with future surgical facelifts and create adhesions and fibrosis, Endolift treatment does not cause fibrosis in the subcutaneous tissue that could compromise a future facelift, making it one of the safest biostimulation treatments on the market.
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