Nose Fillers Vs Nose Threadlift: What Are The Differences?

Non-surgical nose jobs like nose fillers and nose threadlifts are some of the most sought-after aesthetic procedures, as a nose with a well-defined outline can accentuate the rest of the facial features for a more pleasing appearance. While both nose fillers and nose threadlifts can do the job, they each have some distinct features that make them suitable in different cases.

Here, we will explain how different nose fillers and nose threadlifts are.

Nose fillers

Nose fillers, like the name suggests, uses a dermal filler sculpt the nose. The filler material evens out dents and bumps along the nose bridge and improves the appearance of the nose. When performed well, nose fillers can make a flat, small nose look bigger and more defined as well as “straighten” a hooked nose.

There are 2 main types of nose fillers: Non-permanent and Semi-permanent fillers

• Non-permanent nose-fillers, like most other similar dermal fillers, are made mainly from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance found naturally in the skin. After injection, HA fillers typically last between 6 to 12 months before being naturally broken down.  Also, HA fillers can be digested by injecting the naturally occurring enzyme hyaluronidase, which can be used to reverse unsatisfactory results or resolve minor complications.
• Semi-permanent fillers are usually made from calcium hydroxyapatite, a mineral naturally found in bone tissue. Unlike non-permanent fillers, semi-permanent fillers cannot be easily reversed should the results be unsatisfactory or complications occur. One can only wait for the filler to naturally break down or if needed, undergo surgery. However, they are usually firmer than non-permanent fillers and are less likely to distort post-procedure, and usually lasts longer at around 10 to 14 months.

Limitations, risks and possible complications

• The filler material can spread over time, causing the nose to widen (“Avatar nose”). If the filler is non-permanent, it can usually be reversed with a corresponding enzyme (example: HA fillers can be digested with hyaluronidase).
• Although unlikely, it is possible to accidentally inject the filler into the blood vessels supplying the surrounding tissue and the eyes. This disrupts the blood supply and can cause blurred vision, or blindness and necrosis (tissue death) in severe cases. However, this can be easily avoided in the hands of a skilled and experienced doctor.

Nose threadlift

Nose threadlift, also known as the Ultra V Hiko Nose Threadlift, is another non-surgical approach for sculpting the nose developed in South Korea. The name “Hiko” is a combination of “high” and the Korean word for nose “Ko”.

The procedure involves the insertion of specially designed polydioxanone (PDO) or polycaprolactone (PCL) threads along the nose tip or bridge. This achieves nose lifting in 2 main ways:

• The threads are lined with microscopic barbs that attach to the surrounding tissue once inserted. The barbs mechanically lift the nose bridge or tip along the length of the threads, re-sculpting the outline of your nose.
• PDO threads naturally break down in the body over 6 to 9 months. This process stimulates the natural production of collagen in the nose and continually improves the lifting results over this period. The new collagen also sustains the effects for between 1 to 2 years.

Limitations, risks and possible complications

Ultra V Hiko Nose Threadlift has little to no risk and side effects other than some mild bruising which will resolve in a few hours or days. There may also be some slight soreness and discomfort which will subside in less than 2 weeks. The risk of infection is very low as the procedure only involve small injections, and the threads come in sterile packaging.

However, nose threadlift are more limited in their utility. Unlike nose fillers, nose threadlift is unable correct nasal dorsal humps or bumps. Also, they are not as effective as fillers at very fine adjustments on the nose bridge or tip.

Summary

Conclusion

Overall, both nose fillers and nose threadlifts are effective non-surgical methods to enhance the outline of your nose, each with its advantages and limitations. Nose fillers are more versatile and can correct nasal humps and bumps, but do not last as long and are slightly riskier. On the other hand, nose threads last longer and are safer, but is unable to make more precise adjustments.

If you are unsure if nose fillers or nose threads are more suitable for you, feel free to arrange a consultation with our skilled and experienced doctors at The Clifford Clinic. Our doctors have a keen eye for aesthetics and will take into consideration your facial features and expectations to help you make the most informed decision.