Thread Lift in Korea: Complete Guide to Non-Surgical Face Lift 2025

Want a lifted, more defined face without surgery? Thread lifting has become Korea's go-to solution for subtle, natural-looking facial rejuvenation. Using dissolvable medical threads inserted under the skin, this minimally invasive procedure lifts sagging tissue while stimulating collagen production for long-lasting improvements.

This comprehensive guide covers everything international visitors need to know about thread lifting in Korea, including thread types (PDO vs PLLA), realistic pricing, expected results, recovery, and how to choose the right clinic.

What is Thread Lifting?

Thread lifting (실리프팅) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses dissolvable medical threads inserted beneath the skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate natural collagen production.

How It Works

The mechanism:

1. Thread insertion: Medical-grade dissolvable threads inserted through tiny needle punctures
2. Mechanical lift: Barbed or coned threads hook into tissue and physically lift sagging areas
3. Collagen stimulation: Foreign body response triggers collagen production around threads
4. Gradual absorption: Threads dissolve over 6-24 months while collagen structure remains
5. Natural support: New collagen matrix provides lasting structural support

What makes it special:

• No surgery or general anesthesia needed
• Minimal downtime (3-7 days)
• Natural, subtle results
• Immediate lift + progressive improvement
• Suitable for those not ready for surgery
• Can be combined with other treatments

Thread Lift vs Other Treatments

Thread Lift vs Surgical Face Lift:

• Thread: Minimal incisions, 3-7 days recovery, moderate lift, 1-2 years duration
• Surgery: Major incisions, weeks recovery, dramatic lift, 5-10+ years duration

Thread Lift vs HIFU/RF:

• Thread: Physical lifting + collagen, works on all sagging degrees
• HIFU/RF: Heat-based tightening only, better for mild laxity

Thread Lift vs Fillers:

• Thread: Lifts existing tissue, stimulates collagen
• Fillers: Adds volume, doesn't lift sagging tissue

Types of Threads: Understanding Your Options

Thread lifting isn't one-size-fits-all. Different thread materials, structures, and techniques produce different results.

By Material: PDO vs PLLA vs PCL

1. PDO Threads (Polydioxanone)

Background: Most common type, used in surgical sutures for decades

Characteristics:

• Fully absorbable in 6-8 months
• Strong immediate lift
• Moderate collagen stimulation
• Proven safety record
• Most affordable option

Best for:

• First-time thread lift patients
• Moderate sagging
• Those wanting to "test" thread lifting
• Budget-conscious patients

Duration: 6-12 months total effect

Pricing: ₩300,000-800,000 ($231-$615)

2. PLLA Threads (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

Background: Same material as Sculptra (collagen-stimulating injectable)

Characteristics:

• Absorbs slowly over 18-24 months
• Stronger collagen stimulation than PDO
• Progressive volumizing effect
• Longer-lasting results
• Better for volume restoration

Best for:

• Patients wanting longer duration
• Volume loss + sagging
• Those who've had PDO threads before
• Mature skin (40s-60s)

Duration: 12-24 months total effect

Pricing: ₩500,000-1,500,000 ($385-$1,154)

3. PCL Threads (Polycaprolactone)

Background: Newest material, more flexible than PDO

Characteristics:

• Absorbs over 12-18 months
• High flexibility (less breakage risk)
• Strong collagen and volume formation
• Smooth, natural feel
• Premium option

Best for:

• Mobile areas (around mouth)
• Patients wanting natural feel
• Those concerned about thread breakage

Duration: 12-18 months

Pricing: ₩600,000-1,200,000 ($462-$923)

By Structure: Mono vs Cog Threads

Mono Threads (Smooth)

Structure: Straight, smooth threads without barbs

Function:

• No lifting effect
• Pure collagen stimulation
• Creates mesh/scaffolding under skin
• Improves skin quality and texture

Best for:

• Skin tightening without lift
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Improving skin texture
• Combining with cog threads

Typical use:

• Multiple threads (20-50+) inserted in mesh pattern
• Areas: Full face, neck, under eyes

Pricing: ₩200,000-500,000 ($154-$385)

Cog Threads (Barbed/Coned)

Structure: Threads with barbs, cones, or cogs that hook into tissue

Types:

• Uni-directional: Barbs pointing one direction
• Bi-directional: Barbs pointing both directions
• Multi-directional: 360° barbs
• Molding cog: Rose or mesh-shaped cogs
• Cone threads: Small cones instead of barbs

Function:

• Mechanical lifting
• Anchors tissue and pulls upward
• Immediate visible lift
• Also stimulates collagen

Best for:

• Visible sagging and jowls
• Jawline definition
• Cheek lifting
• Neck bands

Typical use:

• Fewer threads (4-10 per side)
• Strategic placement for maximum lift

Pricing: ₩400,000-1,000,000 ($308-$770)

Material Comparison Table

Treatment Areas and Results

What Thread Lift Can Address

Facial concerns:

• ✅ Sagging cheeks and midface
• ✅ Jowls and lower face sagging
• ✅ Undefined jawline
• ✅ Nasolabial folds (marionette lines)
• ✅ Drooping eyebrows
• ✅ Neck bands and turkey neck

Benefits:

• ✅ Immediate visible lift
• ✅ Progressive improvement over 2-3 months
• ✅ Natural, subtle rejuvenation
• ✅ Improved facial contour
• ✅ V-line definition
• ✅ Collagen regeneration
• ✅ Firmer, tighter skin

Expected Results by Treatment Area

Cheeks and midface (4-8 threads per side):

• Lifted, more defined cheekbones
• Reduced nasolabial fold depth
• Youthful apple cheeks restored

Jowls and jawline (4-6 threads per side):

• Sharper jaw definition
• Reduced jowl sagging
• V-line facial contour
• Slimmer lower face appearance

Eyebrows (2-4 threads per side):

• Subtle brow lift
• More open, youthful eye area
• Reduced hooding

Neck (6-12 threads):

• Reduced neck bands
• Tighter neck skin
• Improved jaw-neck angle

Limitations

What thread lift cannot fix:

• ❌ Severe, advanced sagging (surgery needed)
• ❌ Significant volume loss (needs fillers)
• ❌ Deep static wrinkles (needs Botox/fillers)
• ❌ Excess loose skin (surgical excision needed)
• ❌ Fat reduction (not a weight loss treatment)

Best results: Mild to moderate sagging in patients 30s-50s seeking natural improvement without surgery.

The Procedure: Step by Step

Before Treatment

Consultation:

• Facial analysis and skin assessment
• Discussion of concerns and goals
• Thread type recommendation (PDO/PLLA/PCL, mono/cog)
• Number of threads needed
• Realistic expectations set
• Before photos

Preparation:

• Arrive with clean face (no makeup)
• Avoid blood thinners 5-7 days prior
• No alcohol 48 hours before

During Treatment (30-90 minutes)

Numbing (15-20 minutes):

• Topical numbing cream applied
• Local anesthetic injections at insertion points
• Some patients opt for light sedation

Thread insertion (30-60 minutes):

1. Entry points marked: Usually near hairline or behind ears
2. Cannula or needle insertion: Thin cannula creates pathway under skin
3. Thread placement: Doctor threads through cannula to target area
4. Positioning: Thread pulled to create desired lift
5. Securing: Entry point closed (no stitches usually needed)
6. Repeat: Process repeated for each thread

Number of threads typical:

• Minimal lift: 4-8 threads total
• Moderate lift: 10-20 threads
• Full face: 20-40+ threads (mixing mono + cog)

What it feels like:

• Pressure and tugging sensation
• Mild discomfort despite numbing
• Pain level: 3-5/10
• Strange but tolerable pulling feeling

After Treatment

Immediate effects:

• Visible lifting (immediate)
• Swelling and tenderness
• Small puncture marks
• Possible bruising
• Slight asymmetry (normal, settles)

First 24-48 hours:

• Moderate swelling (peak)
• Facial stiffness
• Difficulty with wide mouth movements
• Sleep elevated
• Ice packs help

Days 3-7:

• Swelling significantly reduced
• Bruising fading
• Can see lifting results more clearly
• Mild tenderness remains
• Facial movements feel more normal

Week 2-4:

• Most swelling resolved
• Results look natural
• Collagen stimulation beginning
• Can resume all activities

Months 1-3:

• Progressive improvement
• Collagen building around threads
• Optimal results visible
• Skin quality improving

Pricing in Korea (2025)

Thread lifting prices vary widely based on thread type, quantity, and clinic reputation.

By Thread Type and Quantity

PDO Mono Threads:

• 10 threads: ₩200,000-300,000 ($154-$231)
• 20 threads: ₩300,000-500,000 ($231-$385)
• 50 threads: ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-$615)

PDO Cog Threads:

• 4 threads: ₩300,000-500,000 ($231-$385)
• 8 threads: ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-$615)
• 12 threads: ₩700,000-1,000,000 ($540-$770)

PLLA Threads (Premium):

• 4-6 threads: ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-$615)
• 8-10 threads: ₩800,000-1,200,000 ($615-$923)
• Full face: ₩1,000,000-1,500,000 ($770-$1,154)

PCL Threads:

• Similar to PLLA: ₩600,000-1,200,000 ($462-$923)

By Treatment Area

Cheeks (per side):

• ₩400,000-700,000 ($308-$540)

Jowls/Jawline:

• ₩500,000-900,000 ($385-$692)

Full face (comprehensive):

• ₩800,000-1,500,000 ($615-$1,154)

Neck:

• ₩500,000-900,000 ($385-$692)

Eyebrows:

• ₩300,000-500,000 ($231-$385)

Average Total Cost

Budget option (PDO mono + minimal cog): ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-$615)

Mid-range (PDO cog, moderate lift): ₩800,000-1,200,000 ($615-$923)

Premium (PLLA/PCL, full face): ₩1,200,000-2,000,000 ($923-$1,538)

International Comparison

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD

Results Timeline and Duration

What to Expect Over Time

Week 1 (Immediate lift + swelling):

• Visible lift immediately after procedure
• Swelling obscures true results
• Tenderness and facial stiffness
• Can see general improvement direction

Week 2-4 (True results emerge):

• Swelling resolved
• Natural lifting results visible
• Face feels normal
• Collagen production beginning

Month 1-3 (Peak results):

• Optimal lifting achieved
• Collagen formation in full effect
• Improved skin quality
• Natural, youthful appearance

Month 3-6 (Stable period):

• Results plateau
• Threads beginning to dissolve (PDO)
• Collagen structure mature
• Maintain results with skincare

Month 6-12 (PDO threads):

• Threads fully dissolved
• Collagen structure remains
• Gradual return toward baseline
• Maintenance treatment considered

Month 12-24 (PLLA/PCL threads):

• Slower dissolution
• Collagen continues forming
• Results last significantly longer
• More gradual fade

How Long Do Results Last?

PDO threads: 6-12 months total effect

• Threads dissolve: 6-8 months
• Collagen remains: Additional 3-6 months

PLLA threads: 12-24 months total effect

• Threads dissolve: 18-24 months
• Collagen forms progressively throughout

PCL threads: 12-18 months total effect

• Middle ground between PDO and PLLA

Factors affecting duration:

• Age (younger skin holds longer)
• Skin quality and thickness
• Lifestyle (smoking, sun damage reduce duration)
• Number and type of threads used
• Post-care compliance

Side Effects and Recovery

Common Side Effects (Expected)

Immediate (100% of patients):

• Swelling (moderate, 3-7 days)
• Bruising (common, 5-10 days)
• Tenderness (1-2 weeks)
• Facial stiffness (3-7 days)
• Small puncture marks (heal in 1-2 days)

First week:

• Difficulty with wide smiles/mouth opening
• Slight asymmetry (usually temporary)
• Palpable threads under skin (normal)
• Minor dimpling (resolves as swelling goes down)

Rare Complications

Uncommon but possible:

• Infection (<1%)
• Thread migration or extrusion
• Visible irregularities or dimpling (persistent)
• Nerve damage (very rare, usually temporary)
• Thread breakage
• Excessive scarring at entry points
• Unsatisfactory results or asymmetry

Minimizing Risks

Choose clinic carefully:

• ✅ Experienced doctor (not nurse)
• ✅ Genuine branded threads
• ✅ Proper sterile technique
• ✅ Realistic expectations discussed

Follow aftercare:

• ✅ Sleep elevated (1 week)
• ✅ Avoid extreme facial movements (2 weeks)
• ✅ No massage or pressure on face (1 month)
• ✅ Avoid heat (sauna, hot yoga) 2 weeks
• ✅ Gentle skincare only

Who Should Avoid Thread Lift

Contraindications:

• ❌ Active skin infection
• ❌ Autoimmune conditions (case-by-case)
• ❌ Blood clotting disorders
• ❌ Pregnant or breastfeeding
• ❌ Keloid scarring tendency
• ❌ Unrealistic expectations
• ❌ Very thin, fragile skin

Post-Treatment Care

First 48 Hours (Critical)

DO:

• ✅ Sleep elevated (2-3 pillows)
• ✅ Ice packs (10 min on/off)
• ✅ Gentle movements only
• ✅ Soft food diet
• ✅ Keep head still while sleeping

DON'T:

• ❌ Touch, massage, or press on face
• ❌ Sleep on side/face down
• ❌ Wide mouth movements (yawning, big smiles)
• ❌ Chew hard/chewy foods
• ❌ Exercise or bend over
• ❌ Hot showers
• ❌ Alcohol

First 2 Weeks

DO:

• ✅ Gentle cleansing
• ✅ Continue elevated sleep
• ✅ Protect from sun (SPF 50+)
• ✅ Stay hydrated
• ✅ Follow doctor's instructions

DON'T:

• ❌ Facial massage or treatments
• ❌ Dental work (if possible)
• ❌ Intense exercise
• ❌ Sauna, steam, hot yoga
• ❌ Pressure on treatment areas

First Month

Avoid:

• ❌ Any facial treatments (lasers, RF, etc.)
• ❌ Vigorous facial scrubbing
• ❌ Sleeping on face
• ❌ Excessive facial manipulation

Resume gradually:

• Normal eating (after 3-5 days)
• Light exercise (after 1 week)
• Regular skincare (after 1 week)
• Makeup (immediately if no open wounds)

Top Thread Lift Clinics in Seoul

Gangnam Area

1. All Lifting Clinic (올리팅리프팅클리닉)

• Location: Gangnam Station area
• Specialization: Dedicated lifting clinic (threads, RF, HIFU)
• Why choose: Focused expertise in lifting procedures
• English support: Available
• Pricing: Mid to premium range

2. Liting Plastic Surgery (리팅성형외과)

• Location: Sinsa Station
• Specialization: Facial lifting procedures
• Why choose: Plastic surgery expertise, comprehensive approach
• Experience: Specialists in facial contouring
• Pricing: Premium range

3. Widwin Dermatology (위드윈피부과)

• Location: Apgujeong
• Specialization: Comprehensive dermatology with lifting
• Why choose: Combines threads with other treatments
• English support: Yes
• Pricing: Mid-range

4. CU Cleanup Dermatology (클린업피부과)

• Location: Gangnam Station Exit 10
• Staff: Seoul National University-trained dermatologists
• Why choose: Academic credentials, experienced doctors
• English support: Available
• Pricing: Premium

5. U&I Clinic Gangnam (유앤아이의원)

• Experience: 19 years in operation
• Location: Gangnam district
• Why choose: Established reputation, experienced staff
• Pricing: Mid-range

Choosing Your Clinic

Research platforms:

• Gangnam Unni (강남언니): 3,991 hospitals offering threads, reviews, before/after
• Modoodoc (모두닥): Doctor ratings, pricing comparisons
• My-Doctor.io: Clinic comparisons with detailed info

What to verify:

• ✅ Doctor's experience (not technician)
• ✅ Branded threads (not generic)
• ✅ Portfolio of before/after photos
• ✅ Realistic expectation setting
• ✅ Proper consultation offered
• ✅ Emergency protocol for complications
• ✅ English support if needed

Red flags:

• ❌ Prices too good to be true (<₩200,000 full face)
• ❌ Non-doctors performing procedure
• ❌ Generic/unbranded threads
• ❌ No consultation
• ❌ Guaranteeing dramatic results
• ❌ Pressure to decide immediately

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does thread lift hurt? A: With proper numbing, pain is tolerable (3-5/10). You'll feel pressure, tugging, and strange pulling sensations but not sharp pain. Post-procedure tenderness is moderate and manageable.

Q: PDO or PLLA—which should I choose? A:

• Choose PDO if: First time, moderate sagging, want to test threads, budget-conscious
• Choose PLLA if: Want longer duration, have volume loss, mature skin, willing to invest more

Most doctors recommend PDO for first-timers.

Q: How many threads do I need? A: Depends on sagging degree and treatment area:

• Minimal (prevention/mild): 4-10 threads
• Moderate (visible sagging): 10-20 threads
• Significant (advanced sagging): 20-40+ threads

Doctor will assess during consultation.

Q: When will I see results? A: Immediate lift visible but obscured by swelling. True results emerge at 1-2 weeks when swelling resolves. Peak results at 1-3 months as collagen forms.

Q: Can I combine with other treatments? A: Yes, but timing matters:

• Before threads: Botox (2 weeks before), skin treatments
• With threads: Sometimes combined same day
• After threads: Wait 4-6 weeks for other facial treatments

Q: What if results are uneven? A: Mild asymmetry is common initially and usually self-corrects as swelling resolves. If persistent, doctor can adjust with additional threads or dissolve problematic ones (PDO threads can be removed if needed within first few weeks).

Q: Will threads be visible or palpable? A: Initially you may feel threads under skin—this is normal. As swelling reduces and collagen forms around threads, they become less noticeable. In thin-skinned areas, careful technique prevents visibility.

Q: Can threads break or move? A: PDO threads can occasionally break (5-10% risk), especially with aggressive facial movements during first 2 weeks. This usually doesn't affect overall results. PLLA/PCL threads are more flexible with lower breakage risk. Migration is rare with proper placement.

Q: Am I too young/old for threads? A:

• Best age: 35-60 years
• 30s: Can benefit if early sagging present
• 60s+: Still viable if realistic expectations; may need surgery for severe sagging
• Under 30: Usually not needed unless specific concerns

Q: Is there scarring? A: Entry points are tiny (1-2mm) and usually placed in hairline or behind ears. Scarring is minimal to none.

Q: How long do I need in Seoul? A: Allow 5-7 days minimum. Procedure day + 3-5 days for peak swelling to subside. You can fly after swelling reduces, but optimal results take weeks to fully develop.

Conclusion: Is Thread Lift Right for You?

Thread lifting offers a middle ground between non-invasive treatments (HIFU, RF) and surgical face lifts. It provides visible, natural lifting for mild to moderate sagging without the commitment, cost, or recovery of surgery.

Choose Thread Lift If:

✅ You have:

• Mild to moderate facial sagging
• Undefined jawline or jowls
• Desire for subtle, natural improvement
• Can tolerate 3-7 days social downtime
• Want to avoid surgery
• Realistic expectations

✅ You want:

• Immediate visible lift
• Progressive improvement over months
• Collagen stimulation benefits
• Minimally invasive procedure
• Results lasting 6-24 months

Consider Alternatives If:

❌ You have:

• Severe, advanced sagging (surgery better)
• Very thin, fragile skin
• Need zero downtime (choose RF/HIFU)
• Want permanent results (surgery only option)
• Limited budget (<₩500,000)

Final Verdict

At $385-$1,154 for full face treatment in Korea (compared to $2,500-$6,000 in Western countries), thread lifting delivers significant value for natural facial rejuvenation. The 70-85% cost savings, combined with Korea's expertise in aesthetic procedures, makes Seoul an ideal destination for this treatment.

Results are subtle and natural—expect a refreshed, lifted version of yourself rather than dramatic transformation. With proper technique, realistic expectations, and good aftercare, thread lifting can provide beautiful, confidence-boosting results.

Ready for a natural lift? Research clinics carefully, verify thread quality, and prepare for a refreshed, more youthful you.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about thread lifting procedures. It is not medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult with a licensed plastic surgeon or dermatologist before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Results vary significantly based on individual factors including age, skin quality, technique, and thread type. All procedures carry potential risks and complications. The information provided, including pricing and clinic details, is current as of November 2025 and subject to change. Thread lifting requires skilled technique—choose experienced practitioners only.

Last Updated: November 6, 2025 Reading Time: 12 minutes