Differences Between a Facelift and the Spider Web Technique

As we age, the skin loses elasticity, the tissues of the face shift downwards and wrinkles and sagging develop. Smoking, alcohol, irregular sleep and rapid changes in weight also affect this process. A surgical facelift and the spider web technique are two different methods for these changes; however, they do not solve the same problem. The doctor decides at the examination which method is suitable. Results vary from person to person.

What Is Facelift Surgery?

A facelift is an operation for marked sagging in the middle and lower parts of the face and in the neck. Through incisions that start at the natural fold in front of the ear and extend behind the ear into the hair-bearing scalp, the tissues beneath the skin are repositioned and excess skin is removed. The operation is usually performed under general anaesthesia. If needed, procedures such as eyelid surgery or a forehead lift can be performed separately during the same operation. For detailed information you can read our facelift page.

What Is the Spider Web Technique?

The spider web technique (PDO thread treatment) is a non-surgical treatment in which dissolving PDO threads are placed under the skin in a mesh pattern with fine needles. It is performed under local anaesthesia; no incisions or stitches are needed. By stimulating collagen production around them, the threads support the skin in mild sagging and fine wrinkles; they do not provide a marked lift. For details you can read our article What Is the Spider Web Technique (PDO Thread Treatment)? and our spider web treatment page.

Differences Between the Two Methods

• What it corrects: A facelift removes excess skin and repositions sagging tissues. The spider web technique does not remove excess skin; it supports skin quality and mild sagging.
• Who it is suitable for: A facelift is considered for marked sagging, the spider web technique for mild sagging and fine wrinkles. In marked sagging, the spider web technique does not replace a facelift.
• Anaesthesia and incisions: A facelift is usually performed under general anaesthesia, with incisions and stitches, and leaves a permanent scar; because the incisions are placed in natural folds and the hair-bearing scalp, the scar usually fades over time. The spider web technique is performed under local anaesthesia and requires no incision.
• Recovery: After a facelift, swelling and bruising decrease over a few weeks; a return to daily life and to work that does not require physical effort is usually possible within a week. After the spider web technique, most people can return to daily life shortly afterwards.
• How long the effect lasts: The effect of a facelift can last for many years, but it does not stop ageing. In the spider web technique, the threads dissolve in about six months; the effect is generally reported to last one to two years, and the treatment can be repeated.

Risks

Both methods carry risks. The risks of a facelift include a collection of blood under the skin (haematoma), bleeding, infection, a prominent scar, reduced sensation, hair loss around the incision and injury to the facial nerves. With the spider web technique, redness, swelling and bruising are the most common; less often, asymmetry, skin irregularity, the thread being felt or coming out through the skin and infection may occur. The risks should be discussed in detail with the doctor before the procedure.

For other surgical and non-surgical methods used to lift the face, you can read our article Facelift Methods.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın