Thread Lift in Korea: Complete Guide to PDO Lifting Treatment 2025

Thread lift (실리프팅, pronounced "shil-li-peu-ting") has become one of Korea's most popular non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. With prices significantly lower than Western countries and cutting-edge techniques perfected in Seoul's world-renowned aesthetic clinics, international patients are increasingly choosing Korea for this minimally invasive lifting procedure.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting a thread lift in Korea in 2025 – from understanding different thread types to finding the best clinics in Seoul.

What is Thread Lift?

Thread lift is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses medical-grade dissolvable threads inserted beneath the skin to lift and tighten sagging facial tissue. Unlike traditional facelift surgery, thread lifting requires no incisions, general anesthesia, or extended recovery time.

The procedure serves two primary functions:

1. Immediate Mechanical Lifting: The threads physically pull sagging skin upward, creating an instant lifting effect
2. Long-term Collagen Stimulation: As the threads gradually dissolve over months, they trigger natural collagen production, improving skin texture and elasticity

Korean dermatologists have pioneered advanced thread lift techniques, combining multiple thread types and strategic placement patterns to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results.

How Thread Lift Works: The Science Behind PDO Threads

Thread lifts use biocompatible, absorbable sutures originally developed for surgical use. These medical-grade threads have been safely used in cardiovascular surgery and other medical procedures for decades.

When inserted into the subcutaneous layer of skin, the threads create three synergistic effects:

1. Structural Support

The threads act as a scaffold, repositioning descended facial tissue to a more youthful position. Barbed threads (cog threads) hook onto tissue for stronger support.

2. Neocollagenesis

Foreign body response triggers fibroblast activation, stimulating new collagen and elastin production around the threads. This process continues for 3-6 months after insertion.

3. Tissue Remodeling

As threads gradually dissolve through hydrolysis, the newly formed collagen matrix maintains the lifting effect even after complete thread absorption.

Types of Thread Lift Materials: PDO vs PCL vs PLLA

Korea offers three main thread materials, each with distinct characteristics and longevity:

PDO (Polydioxanone)

Duration: 6-12 months

PDO threads were the first type used in aesthetic thread lifting and remain the most common. Made from the same material as surgical sutures, PDO has an excellent safety profile with decades of medical use.

Characteristics:

• Firm texture provides strong lifting force
• Minimal tissue reaction
• Absorbs completely via hydrolysis
• Cost-effective option
• Good for first-time thread lift patients

PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

Duration: 18-24 months

PLLA threads contain the same biocompatible polymer used in Sculptra dermal filler. This material is particularly effective at stimulating collagen production.

Characteristics:

• Strongest collagen stimulation effect
• Longer-lasting results
• Breaks down into water and CO₂
• No residual materials
• Higher cost than PDO
• Ideal for patients seeking extended results

PCL (Polycaprolactone)

Duration: 24-36 months

PCL threads offer the longest duration among thread lift materials. Their flexibility and slower absorption rate make them increasingly popular.

Characteristics:

• Most flexible and softest texture
• Highest tensile strength (least likely to break)
• Minimal discomfort and foreign body sensation
• Slowest absorption rate (2+ years)
• Natural-looking results
• Premium pricing
• Best for patients wanting maximum longevity

Thread Structure Types: Mono, Cog, and Screw

Beyond material composition, threads come in different structural designs, each suited for specific aesthetic goals:

Mono Threads (Smooth Threads)

Mono threads are simple, smooth filaments without barbs or hooks.

Best for:

• Fine line reduction
• Skin tightening and texture improvement
• Pore refinement
• Overall skin rejuvenation
• Minimal lifting needs

Typical Use: 20-100 threads per session depending on treatment area Price Range: ₩4,000-₩50,000 per thread

Cog Threads (Barbed Threads)

Cog threads feature small barbs or "cogs" along the thread shaft that hook into tissue for strong mechanical lifting.

Best for:

• Significant skin sagging
• V-line jaw contouring
• Cheek lifting
• Nasolabial fold reduction
• Jowl improvement

Typical Use: 4-12 threads per treatment area Price Range: ₩100,000-₩300,000 per thread

Screw/Tornado Threads (Twisted Threads)

Screw threads consist of one or more mono threads twisted into a spring-like spiral structure.

Best for:

• Volume restoration in hollow areas
• Under-eye hollows
• Sunken temples
• Cheek volume
• Enhanced collagen stimulation

Typical Use: 6-20 threads depending on area Price Range: ₩30,000-₩100,000 per thread

Korean clinics often combine all three thread types in a single session for comprehensive facial rejuvenation – using cog threads for lifting, mono threads for skin quality, and screw threads for volume.

Benefits of Thread Lift in Korea

1. Non-Surgical Face Lifting

Achieve facelift-like results without surgery, general anesthesia, or visible scarring. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes.

2. Minimal Downtime

Most patients return to normal activities within 1-3 days. Unlike surgical facelifts requiring weeks of recovery, thread lifts allow you to continue your Seoul travel plans.

3. Natural-Looking Results

Korean doctors excel at subtle, natural enhancement rather than overdone results. Strategic thread placement creates harmonious facial proportions.

4. Collagen Boost

Beyond immediate lifting, threads stimulate ongoing collagen production for 3-6 months, progressively improving skin quality.

5. Customizable Treatment

Doctors tailor thread type, number, and placement to your specific concerns – whether targeting jowls, brow lift, neck tightening, or full-face rejuvenation.

6. Reversibility

Unlike permanent surgical alterations, thread lifts are temporary and reversible. Threads can be removed if needed, though this is rarely necessary.

7. Cost-Effective in Korea

Thread lift prices in Seoul are 40-70% lower than in Western countries, with equal or superior technique quality.

Thread Lift Prices in Korea (2025)

Based on data from Korean medical platforms and clinic surveys, here are current thread lift prices in Seoul:

By Thread Type

By Treatment Area

Note: Prices vary significantly based on clinic reputation, doctor experience, thread brand, and number of threads used. Premium branded threads (Mint Lift, Silhouette Soft, Happy Lift) cost more than generic options.

2025 Market Statistics

According to Korean medical review platform Modoodoc:

• Average thread lift cost: ₩554,000 ($426)
• Lowest price recorded: ₩16,500 ($13) for single mono thread
• Highest price recorded: ₩1,500,000 ($1,154) for premium full-face treatment
• Most common price range: ₩400,000 - ₩800,000 ($308 - $615)

Data from Gangnam Unni app (beauty procedure platform) shows:

• Minimum: ₩4,290 ($3) per mono thread
• Maximum: ₩437,500 ($336) for premium cog threads
• Average: ₩69,000 ($53) per thread

Korea vs International Price Comparison

Thread lift costs in Korea are substantially lower than in Western countries:

Cost Savings Example: An American patient getting a full-face PDO thread lift in Seoul could save $1,500-$3,800 compared to US prices, even accounting for travel costs.

Thread Lift Treatment Process in Korea

Before Your Appointment

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Stop blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) if approved by your doctor
• Avoid alcohol consumption for 3 days prior
• Discontinue vitamin E and fish oil supplements
• Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin

Consultation (15-30 minutes)

Your Korean dermatologist will:

1. Assess your facial anatomy and skin condition
2. Discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns
3. Recommend thread types and placement strategy
4. Show before/after photos of similar cases
5. Explain risks, benefits, and expected results
6. Provide exact pricing for your customized plan

Most clinics have English-speaking staff or interpreters. Bring reference photos of your desired results.

Treatment Procedure (30-60 minutes)

Step 1: Preparation

• Face is cleansed and disinfected
• Treatment areas marked with surgical pen
• Photos taken for medical records

Step 2: Anesthesia

• Topical numbing cream applied (20-30 minutes)
• Local anesthetic injections at insertion points
• Some clinics offer sedation for anxious patients

Step 3: Thread Insertion

• Doctor creates tiny entry points with fine needles
• Threads inserted using thin cannulas or needles
• Threads positioned along predetermined vectors
• Entry points secured and checked for symmetry

Step 4: Final Adjustments

• Doctor gently manipulates facial tissue for optimal positioning
• Excess thread trimmed at entry points
• Ice packs applied to minimize swelling

Step 5: Post-Treatment

• Antibiotic ointment applied to insertion sites
• Post-care instructions provided
• Follow-up appointment scheduled (typically 1-2 weeks)

Immediate Post-Treatment

You may experience:

• Mild tightness or pulling sensation
• Slight swelling and redness
• Minor bruising at insertion points
• Facial asymmetry (resolves in 3-5 days)

Most patients can leave the clinic immediately and return to their hotel. Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.

Results Timeline: What to Expect

Thread lift results evolve over several months as both mechanical lifting and collagen stimulation take effect:

Day 0-1: Immediate Lifting

• Instant lifting effect visible immediately after treatment
• Swelling may mask final results
• Facial tightness most noticeable

Days 2-7: Early Recovery

• Swelling peaks around day 2-3, then gradually subsides
• Bruising visible in some patients
• Lifting effect softens slightly as tissue adjusts
• Some asymmetry normal during this phase

Weeks 2-4: Initial Results

• Swelling fully resolved
• Lifting effect stabilizes
• Facial contours become more defined
• Minor irregularities smooth out

Months 1-3: Progressive Improvement

• Collagen production accelerates
• Skin texture and elasticity improve
• Results continue enhancing
• Optimal results visible around month 2-3

Months 3-12: Peak and Maintenance

• Maximum lifting and rejuvenation effect
• Skin quality continues improving
• Threads gradually absorbed
• Results maintained by new collagen

Year 1+: Duration Varies by Thread Type

• PDO: Effects diminish after 6-12 months
• PLLA: Results last 12-24 months
• PCL: Effects sustained 24-36 months
• Touch-up treatments can extend results

According to Goodoc platform data from 7,352 thread lift patients:

• 69% saw immediate results
• 24% noticed effects within one week
• 7% saw results within one month

Side Effects and Risks

Thread lift is considered safe when performed by qualified practitioners, but potential side effects include:

Common (Temporary)

• Swelling: Peaks day 2-3, resolves in 5-10 days
• Bruising: Occurs in 30-40% of patients, fades in 1-2 weeks
• Discomfort: Tightness or pulling sensation for 3-7 days
• Dimpling: Temporary skin irregularities (usually resolve spontaneously)
• Asymmetry: Minor differences between sides (adjust naturally within weeks)

Uncommon

• Thread visibility: Thin skin may show threads (easily corrected)
• Palpable threads: Feeling threads under skin (usually improves over time)
• Infection: Rare with proper sterile technique (<1% incidence)
• Thread migration: Threads shift from original position (can be repositioned)
• Skin puckering: Usually due to excessive tension (often self-resolves)

Rare but Serious

• Nerve injury: Temporary facial weakness (extremely rare with experienced practitioners)
• Thread extrusion: Thread breaks through skin (requires removal)
• Granuloma formation: Inflammatory reaction to threads (treatable)
• Vascular complications: Very rare with proper technique

Important: Choose board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons with extensive thread lift experience to minimize risks.

Aftercare Instructions

Proper aftercare is crucial for optimal results and complication prevention:

First 24 Hours

• Apply ice packs 10 minutes every hour while awake
• Sleep with head elevated (2-3 pillows)
• Take prescribed antibiotics and pain medication
• Avoid touching or massaging treatment areas
• No makeup or skincare products

First Week

• Sleep on your back with head elevated
• Gentle cleansing with mild cleanser only
• No facial massage, facial treatments, or dental work
• Avoid extreme facial expressions
• No strenuous exercise, sauna, or hot baths
• Soft diet (avoid excessive chewing)
• No alcohol consumption

First Month

• Gradually resume normal activities after week 1
• Avoid facial treatments (microneedling, lasers, peels)
• No aggressive facial massage
• Be gentle when washing face
• Wear sunscreen daily (SPF 50+)
• Stay well-hydrated

Long-Term Maintenance

• Keep skin hydrated with quality moisturizers
• Regular sunscreen use to protect collagen
• Consider complementary treatments (Botox, fillers) after 2-3 weeks
• Follow-up with your doctor as scheduled
• Avoid smoking (impairs collagen production)

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful is thread lift?

With proper anesthesia, most patients rate thread lift pain as 2-3/10. You'll feel pressure and tugging during insertion, but not sharp pain. Discomfort is most noticeable during the first 2-3 days post-treatment as a tightness sensation.

Can I combine thread lift with other treatments?

Yes, thread lifts work excellently with complementary procedures:

• Botox/Dysport: Wait 2 weeks after thread lift
• Dermal fillers: Can be done same day or after 2 weeks
• Laser treatments: Wait 4 weeks post-thread lift
• Chemical peels: Wait 4 weeks
• Ultherapy/HIFU: Wait 4-6 weeks

Korean doctors often create comprehensive treatment plans combining multiple modalities for optimal facial rejuvenation.

How long does thread lift last?

Duration depends on thread material:

• PDO threads: 6-12 months
• PLLA threads: 12-24 months
• PCL threads: 24-36 months

Individual factors affecting longevity include age, skin quality, lifestyle habits, and maintenance treatments.

Am I too young/old for thread lift?

Ideal candidates: Ages 30-65 with mild to moderate skin laxity

Too young (under 30): Usually insufficient skin laxity to benefit; better served by preventive treatments

Too old (over 65-70): Severe sagging may require surgical facelift for adequate correction; thread lift provides modest improvement

Consult with your doctor to determine if you're a good candidate.

Will people know I had a thread lift?

When performed skillfully, thread lifts create natural-looking results. You'll look refreshed and younger, but not "done." Korean doctors specialize in subtle enhancements that don't broadcast obvious work.

Temporary swelling and bruising in the first week may be noticeable, but these resolve quickly.

Can threads break or snap?

Modern threads, especially PCL threads, have high tensile strength and rarely break. PDO threads occasionally break if excessive force is applied, but this doesn't cause harm – the broken pieces are simply absorbed by the body.

Avoid extreme facial movements and massage in the first month to prevent thread breakage.

What if I don't like the results?

While uncommon with experienced practitioners, adjustments can be made:

• Minor asymmetries often self-correct within 2-4 weeks
• Threads can be repositioned within the first week if needed
• In rare cases, threads can be removed entirely (though this defeats the purpose)
• Collagen stimulation effects are irreversible, but not harmful

Choose your doctor carefully to minimize the need for corrections.

How many threads do I need?

This varies dramatically based on:

• Treatment area (full face vs. targeted zones)
• Thread type (mono, cog, or screw)
• Degree of sagging
• Desired outcome

Typical ranges:

• Minimal lifting: 20-40 threads
• Moderate lifting: 40-80 threads
• Full face rejuvenation: 80-150 threads

Your doctor will provide exact recommendations during consultation.

Top Thread Lift Clinics in Seoul

Korea offers countless options for thread lift treatment. Here are reputable clinics frequented by international patients:

Gangnam District

Widwin Dermatology (위드윈피부과)

• Location: ISA Building 4F, Apgujeong-ro 30-gil 51, Gangnam-gu
• Specialties: Ulthera, Thermage, thread lifting, wrinkle treatments
• Notable: Co-author of Korean laser dermatology textbook
• Languages: Korean, English consultation available
• Phone: 02-547-6600

PHD Dermatology (PHD피부과)

• Location: Apgujeong Building 2F, Nonhyeon-ro 842, Gangnam-gu
• Specialties: Thread lift, laser treatments, anti-aging
• Notable: Recognized as excellent dermatology clinic by Korean Consumer Industry Evaluation
• Parking: Available in building
• Languages: Korean, English consultation available

Nine Dermatology Gangnam (나인피부과 강남점)

• Location: Gangnam station area
• Specialties: Thread lift, Botox, filler, comprehensive skin treatments
• Notable: Popular chain with multiple Seoul locations
• Phone: 02-599-9990

Apgujeong/Sinsa District

Sejin Dermatology (세진피부과의원)

• Location: 3-4F, Eonju-ro 172-gil 30, Gangnam-gu (Sinsa-dong)
• Access: 5-minute walk from Apgujeong Rodeo Station Exit 6
• Specialties: Thread lift with experienced dermatology specialists
• Notable: Established clinic in prime Apgujeong medical district

Finding the Right Clinic

Research platforms:

• Gangnam Unni (강남언니): Korea's largest beauty procedure platform with 16,000+ reviews
• Modoodoc (모두닥): Medical review site with verified patient feedback
• My Doctor (나만의닥터): Compare clinics by specialty and location

What to look for:

• Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
• Extensive thread lift experience (500+ procedures)
• Before/after photo portfolio
• English-speaking staff or interpreter services
• Clean, modern facility
• Transparent pricing
• Good patient reviews

Red flags:

• Prices significantly below market average
• No doctor credentials displayed
• High-pressure sales tactics
• Unwillingness to answer questions
• No consultation before committing

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Thread lift is a medical procedure that carries risks. Always consult with qualified medical professionals before undergoing any cosmetic treatment.

Important considerations:

• Individual results vary based on anatomy, age, skin condition, and other factors
• Not all patients are good candidates for thread lift
• Complications can occur even with experienced practitioners
• Prices and clinic information are subject to change
• This guide does not replace professional medical consultation

Before treatment:

• Research your doctor's credentials thoroughly
• Ensure the clinic uses FDA/KFDA-approved threads
• Discuss your complete medical history
• Understand all risks and realistic outcomes
• Never choose a clinic based solely on price

Seoul Skin Guide does not receive compensation from mentioned clinics. Clinic listings are provided for informational purposes only. We recommend consulting multiple clinics before making your decision.

Final Thoughts: Is Thread Lift in Korea Worth It?

Thread lift in Korea offers an exceptional combination of affordability, expertise, and cutting-edge technique that's difficult to find elsewhere. Korean dermatologists perform thousands of thread lift procedures annually, developing refined skills and innovative approaches.

Ideal candidates are those with:

• Mild to moderate skin sagging
• Good skin elasticity
• Realistic expectations
• Desire to avoid surgery
• Budget for maintenance treatments

Thread lift won't replace surgical facelifts for severe sagging, but it provides remarkable results for the right candidates with minimal downtime and cost.

Whether you're visiting Seoul for medical tourism or living in Korea, thread lifting offers an accessible entry point into Korean aesthetic medicine. With proper research, realistic expectations, and a qualified practitioner, you can achieve natural-looking facial rejuvenation that turns back the clock without going under the knife.

Ready to book your thread lift consultation in Seoul? Research clinics thoroughly, prepare questions for your consultation, and plan your visit during a time when you can allow 5-7 days of recovery without major commitments. Your journey to a lifted, rejuvenated appearance starts with informed decision-making.

Have questions about thread lift in Korea? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below!