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Rhinoplasty vs Nose Thread Lift: Which Gives Better Results?

Writer's picture: Dr Calvin TanDr Calvin Tan

Updated: 3 days ago


Person with eyes closed, wearing a blue hair cover, lying on a gray surface. Gloved hands mark the nose with a pencil, suggesting surgery prep.

Deciding between rhinoplasty and nose thread lift can be overwhelming.


Perhaps you have considered the classic rhinoplasty, but going under a knife scares you. Or maybe you have heard about the trendy, non-surgical nose thread lift but are unsure if it is the right thing to do.

Fear not! Let’s dive into details and uncover the differences between these two options so you can make the best decision for your sniffer.


Rhinoplasty vs Nose Thread Lift: Procedures

Surgical rhinoplasty and nose thread lifts are two different ways to improve your nose's appearance. Each procedure works differently.


What is Rhinoplasty Surgery and How It's Done

Rhinoplasty infographics

Rhinoplasty changes your nose's shape by modifying the bone and cartilage structure through surgery.


The procedure starts with either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The surgeon makes cuts either inside your nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (open rhinoplasty).


Your surgeon then carefully reshapes the bone and cartilage to achieve your desired look and function.


How Nose Thread Lift Works


How nose thread lift works
Source: Me Clinic

A nose thread lift is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that is done under local anesthesia with a shorter recovery time.


It uses dissolvable PDO (polydioxanone) threads to reshape your nose without surgery. The doctor numbs the area with topical anesthetic first.


They place special surgical sutures along your nasal bridge horizontally to add height and vertically toward the nose tip.


You'll spend about 30-45 minutes in the doctor's office for this procedure.


Key Differences in Procedure Techniques

These procedures are quite different in their approach and complexity. Rhinoplasty creates permanent structural changes and takes 1.5 to 3 hours.


However, nose thread lifts give you temporary results that last 6-18 months. Thread lift patients can get back to their daily routine almost right away, while rhinoplasty needs much more recovery time.


Not a fan of needles, scalpels, or downtime? Then, nose thread lift might be the way for you!


 

Curious what are the differences between nose thread lift and filler? Read our article to compare both and select the right treatment for yourself!

 

Person's profile with surgical marks on the nose. Gloved hand holding pen against nose before nose thread lifting treatment


Comparing Results and Recovery Timeline

Recovery timelines and results differ by a lot between rhinoplasty and nose thread lift procedures.


Rhinoplasty Recovery: What to Expect Week by Week

Pain levels range from 1-4 out of 10 during the first week after rhinoplasty.


Your surgeon will remove stitches and splints after 7-10 days. Bruising around the eyes fades within two weeks, and you can return to work.


Your nasal breathing improves by weeks 3-4, and subtle skin color changes occur as healing continues.


Nose Thread Lift Side Effects and Healing Process

Thread lift recovery takes much less time, and most patients can resume their daily activities right away.


You might notice mild swelling and bruising that lasts up to five days. Patients should avoid heavy exercise for 48 hours and skip facial massages for ten days.


Duration of Results: Permanent vs Temporary Solutions

Rhinoplasty creates permanent structural changes, though final results emerge after a year as swelling goes down.


Thread lift results last between 1-2 years, and some permanent lifting occurs due to collagen production.


Want to find out which option works best for you? Schedule a consultation with Dream Clinic's experts to talk about your nose improvement goals. Learn more about our other services, including double eyelid surgery Malaysia, on our website.


Side-by-side photos of a woman's profile with a subtle nose contour illustration on one side against a neutral beige background.

What are the Costs of Rhinoplasty and Nose Thread Lifting?


Let's break down the costs to help you make a smart choice about your nose improvement procedure.


Rhinoplasty Cost in Malaysia

A rhinoplasty in Malaysia costs between RM10,000 and RM30,000. 


Your final price will depend on several key factors. The hospital's treatment package, your surgeon's expertise, the post-operative care you need, and how long you stay in the hospital all affect the total cost.


The price varies by procedure type. A standard cosmetic rhinoplasty costs around RM12,000. You might pay up to RM25,000 for revision rhinoplasty.


Nose Thread Lift Malaysia Price

Nose thread lift procedures cost between RM2,000 and RM5,000. The price changes based on how many threads you need, which type you choose, and your doctor's experience level.


Long-term Investment Comparison

Rhinoplasty costs more upfront but gives permanent results. Thread lifts cost less but need regular touch-ups, which can add up over time.


Want to know which procedure is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our experts to learn about your options.


Am I suitable for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty works best if you have completed facial growth and stay in good physical health.


You should be a non-smoker and have realistic expectations about your appearance changes. This surgical option helps people who want to fix a bulbous tip, wide nose, dorsal hump, or breathing problems.


Am I suitable for Nose Thread Lift?

Nose thread lifts offer subtle improvements without surgery. People between 25-50 years old with good skin elasticity see the best results. The procedure helps fix minor cosmetic issues like slightly drooping nasal tips or small asymmetries.


Want to know which procedure matches your needs? Schedule a consultation with our experts at Dream Clinic.


Compare Rhinoplasty and Nose Thread Lift

Aspect

Rhinoplasty

Nose Thread Lift

Procedure Duration

1.5 to 3 hours

15-30 minutes

Cost in Malaysia

RM10,000 - RM30,000

RM1,500 - RM4,000

Anesthesia

General anesthesia or intravenous sedation

Topical anesthetic

Technique

Surgical reshaping of bone and cartilage structure

Insertion of dissolvable PDO threads

Recovery Time

Several weeks

Minimal downtime, immediate return to activities

Results Duration

Permanent

6-18 months

Pain Level

1-4 out of 10 in first week

Mild discomfort

Recovery Milestones

- Stitches/splints removal: 7-10 days - Bruising subsides: 2 weeks - Breathing improvement: 3-4 weeks

- Swelling/bruising: up to 5 days - Exercise restriction: 48 hours - No facial massages: 10 days

Ideal Candidates

- Completed facial growth- Non-smokers - Good physical health - Need major structural changes

- Ages 25-50 - Good skin elasticity - Need minor improvements

Best For

- Bulbous tip - Wide nose - Dorsal hump - Breathing difficulties

- Slightly drooping nasal tips - Minor asymmetry - Subtle improvements

Enhance Your Nose Beauty with Dream Clinic

The choice between rhinoplasty and nose thread lift depends on several factors that need to be thought over.


Both procedures are great ways to boost your nose appearance, each with its own benefits.


At Dream Clinic, our team of experienced aesthetic skin specialists deliver exceptional services and the highest regards of safety in the latest premium medical aesthetic treatments. 


Recognized as one of the Top 3 aesthetic clinics in Penang, our reputation extends across Malaysia and the wider region, including KL, Johor, Borneo, Indonesia, and Singapore. 


If you need professional help, please don’t hesitate to contact experts from Dream Clinic! We can help you decide which procedure lines up with your needs and situation.



Dream Clinic team photo


FAQs

Q1. Is rhinoplasty or nose thread lift more suitable for significant nose changes? 

Rhinoplasty is generally more suitable for significant nose changes. It offers permanent structural modifications and can address major issues like a bulbous tip, wide nose, dorsal hump, or breathing difficulties. Nose thread lifts are better for subtle improvements and minor cosmetic concerns.


Q2. How long do the results of a nose thread lift typically last? 

The results of a nose thread lift typically last between 1-2 years. While temporary, some degree of permanent lifting may occur due to collagen production stimulated by the procedure. For longer-lasting results, rhinoplasty offers a permanent solution.


Q3. What are the main differences in recovery time between rhinoplasty and nose thread lift? 

Rhinoplasty requires several weeks of recovery, with bruising subsiding within two weeks and breathing improvements occurring around 3-4 weeks. In contrast, nose thread lift patients can usually resume daily activities immediately, with only mild swelling and bruising for up to five days.


Q4. How do the costs of rhinoplasty and nose thread lift compare in Malaysia? 

In Malaysia, rhinoplasty costs significantly more, ranging from RM10,000 to RM30,000. Nose thread lifts are more affordable, typically costing between RM1,500 to RM4,000. However, the long-term investment should be considered, as thread lifts require periodic maintenance.


Q5. Who are ideal candidates for nose thread lifts? 

Ideal candidates for nose thread lifts are typically individuals between 25-50 years old with good skin elasticity. This procedure is best for those seeking subtle improvements without surgical intervention, such as addressing slightly drooping nasal tips or minor asymmetry.


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