Thread Lifting in Korea: Prices, Procedure & Best Clinics for 2026

Thread lifting has become one of the most sought-after non-surgical anti-aging treatments in South Korea. Often called the "lunchtime facelift," it offers noticeable lifting and tightening results without the downtime of traditional surgery. With Seoul's clinics at the forefront of aesthetic innovation and search interest for thread lifting in Gangnam up 47% year-over-year, thousands of international visitors now travel to Korea specifically for this procedure. Here is everything you need to know before booking your appointment.

What Is Thread Lifting?

Thread lifting (실리프팅) is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses medical-grade dissolvable threads inserted beneath the skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate collagen production. Unlike a surgical facelift, thread lifting requires only tiny entry points, no general anesthesia, and offers a much shorter recovery period.

The treatment delivers two key benefits. First, the threads physically pull sagging skin and fat upward, providing an immediate lifting effect. Second, as the threads dissolve over time, they trigger your body's natural wound-healing response, generating new collagen and elastin fibers that maintain firmness long after the threads themselves have been absorbed.

According to Korean aesthetic platforms tracking over 7,350 thread lift patients, roughly 69% report visible results immediately after the procedure, with another 24% noticing full results within one week.

Types of Threads Used in Korea

Korean clinics offer a variety of thread materials and designs. Understanding the differences will help you make an informed decision during your consultation.

Thread Materials

PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads

PDO is the most widely used thread material in Korea and has been used as surgical suture material for decades, making it exceptionally well-proven for safety. PDO threads are firm and provide strong lifting power. They begin to dissolve around 3 months after insertion, with lifting effects lasting approximately 6 to 12 months. PDO is ideal for patients seeking immediate, strong lifting results and is typically the most affordable option.

PLLA (Poly L-Lactic Acid) Threads

PLLA is the same active ingredient found in Sculptra, a popular collagen-stimulating filler. PLLA threads break down into water and carbon dioxide, leaving no residual material in the body. Their standout feature is powerful collagen stimulation -- they generate dense, rich collagen around the thread site, providing both lifting and natural volume restoration. PLLA threads begin dissolving around 6 months and effects can last 1 to 2 years.

PCL (Polycaprolactone) Threads

PCL threads are the most flexible and slowest to dissolve among the three materials. They are soft and pliable, resulting in minimal discomfort and a natural feel under the skin. PCL excels in collagen formation and volume enhancement, and its effects can last 2 years or longer, making it the longest-lasting option available. PCL threads are typically the most expensive choice.

Thread Designs

Mono Threads are smooth, straight threads primarily used for skin tightening and collagen stimulation rather than heavy lifting. A single session may involve 20 to 100 threads. They work best for improving overall skin texture and addressing mild skin laxity.

Cog Threads feature tiny barbs or hooks along their surface, similar to rose thorns. These barbs grip the tissue and physically pull it upward, delivering the strongest lifting effect. The downward-facing barbs lift the skin while upward-facing barbs anchor into the tissue for fixation. Cog threads are the go-to choice for addressing sagging jowls, nasolabial folds, and defining the jawline into a V-line shape.

Quick Comparison Chart

How the Procedure Works: Step by Step

Understanding the treatment process can ease any pre-procedure anxiety. Here is what to expect at a typical Seoul clinic.

Step 1: Consultation and Assessment

Your doctor will evaluate your facial structure, skin laxity, fat distribution, and elasticity. Based on this assessment, they will recommend the appropriate thread material, design, and number of threads. Many Korean clinics offer free initial consultations with English-speaking coordinators.

Step 2: Marking and Anesthesia

The treatment areas are carefully marked on your face. Local anesthesia is applied through topical numbing cream, local injections, or both. The procedure is performed while you are fully awake and comfortable.

Step 3: Thread Insertion

Using fine needles or cannulas, the doctor inserts the threads beneath the skin through tiny entry points. For cog threads, the barbs engage with the underlying tissue as the thread is positioned. The doctor then adjusts the threads to achieve the desired lift. Depending on the treatment area and number of threads, this step takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Step 4: Final Adjustment and Completion

Once all threads are in place, the doctor makes final adjustments to ensure symmetry and optimal lifting. The entry points are so small that no stitches are needed. You can typically see results right away in the mirror.

Thread Lifting Prices in Korea (2026)

One of the biggest reasons international visitors choose Korea for thread lifting is the price. Korean clinics offer the procedure at a fraction of what you would pay in Western countries.

Average Price Ranges

The average price for a standard thread lift session at Seoul dermatology clinics is approximately 550,000 to 830,000 KRW ($425 to $640 USD), based on Korean medical platform surveys of 11 clinics across Seoul. By comparison, the same procedure typically costs $2,000 to $5,000 in the United States and $1,500 to $3,500 in Europe.

What Affects the Price?

Several factors influence the final cost of your thread lift in Korea:

• Thread material: PCL and PLLA threads cost more per unit than PDO threads
• Number of threads: More threads means higher cost; a full-face treatment requires more than a localized jawline lift
• Treatment area: Spot treatments (jawline only) are less expensive than full-face procedures
• Clinic location and reputation: Gangnam and Apgujeong clinics may charge a premium
• Doctor's experience: Board-certified specialists with extensive portfolios command higher fees
• Additional costs: Anesthesia fees and VAT (부가세) may not be included in quoted prices

Always confirm what is included in the quoted price during your consultation. Reputable clinics will show you the sealed thread packaging to verify authenticity before the procedure begins.

Recovery Time and Aftercare

Thread lifting is known for its quick recovery, which is especially appealing for international visitors with limited time in Seoul.

What to Expect After Treatment

• Day 1: Mild swelling, tenderness, and possible light bruising. Most patients return to light daily activities the next day.
• Days 2 -- 3: You may feel a pulling or tightness sensation, which is completely normal as the threads settle.
• Week 1 -- 2: Bruising and swelling gradually subside. Any discomfort typically resolves within this period.
• Week 4+: Final results become fully visible as initial swelling settles and collagen production begins.

Aftercare Guidelines

Following these instructions will protect your results and speed recovery:

• First 7 days: Avoid alcohol, saunas, steam rooms, and intense exercise
• First 2 weeks: Do not open your mouth excessively wide, chew very hard foods, or receive facial massages or skin treatments like gua sha
• First month: Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol to prevent inflammation and support healing
• Sleeping: Sleep on your back for the first 1 to 2 weeks and avoid pressing or rubbing the treated areas

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include mild bruising, swelling, slight asymmetry (usually temporary), a sensation of tightness, pigmentation changes, and minor pain at entry points. These typically resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. Rare side effects include infection, thread migration, dimpling, or palpable threads under the skin. If you experience persistent pain, increasing swelling, or signs of infection such as redness and warmth, contact your clinic immediately.

How Long Do Results Last?

The duration of your thread lift results depends on the type of threads used and individual factors like skin quality, age, and lifestyle habits.

Even after the threads fully dissolve, the collagen produced around the thread sites continues to provide structural support. Younger patients with healthier skin tend to enjoy longer-lasting results because their bodies produce collagen more actively. Sun protection, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking all contribute to prolonged results.

Many Korean clinics recommend maintenance sessions every 12 to 18 months to sustain optimal lifting effects over time.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Thread lifting is most effective for patients who:

• Are in their late 20s to 50s with mild to moderate skin sagging
• Want noticeable lifting without surgical downtime
• Have realistic expectations about the degree of lift achievable
• Are in good overall health with no active skin infections in the treatment area

Thread lifting is not a replacement for a surgical facelift in cases of severe skin laxity. Your doctor in Seoul will be honest about whether thread lifting alone can achieve your goals or whether a combined approach might produce better results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How painful is thread lifting?

With local anesthesia, most patients report only mild discomfort or a tugging sensation during the procedure. Pain levels are generally rated 2 to 3 out of 10. Post-procedure soreness is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.

Can I combine thread lifting with other treatments?

Yes. Korean clinics frequently combine thread lifting with Botox, dermal fillers, HIFU (Ultherapy), or laser treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Your doctor will advise on the best timing and sequencing of treatments.

How many threads will I need?

This varies by treatment area and your specific goals. A targeted jawline lift might use 4 to 8 cog threads, while a full-face treatment could require 10 to 20 cog threads plus additional mono threads for overall skin quality improvement.

Is there scarring?

Thread lifting entry points are extremely small (needle-sized) and heal without visible scarring in the vast majority of cases.

How soon before my flight home can I get thread lifting?

We recommend scheduling the procedure at least 3 to 5 days before your departure. This allows initial swelling to subside and gives you time for a follow-up visit if needed.

How do I verify the clinic uses authentic threads?

Ask the clinic to show you the sealed, original packaging of the threads before the procedure. Reputable clinics in Korea are transparent about the brands and materials they use and will let you inspect the packaging yourself.

Tips for International Visitors

• Book a consultation first: Many Seoul clinics offer free consultations, sometimes with English-speaking coordinators or professional translators
• Compare on Korean platforms: Apps like Gangnam Unni and Goodoc list real patient reviews and transparent pricing from clinics across Seoul
• Ask about foreigner packages: Some clinics offer bundled packages for international patients that include consultation, treatment, and aftercare products
• Bring reference photos: Show your doctor the specific areas of concern and the results you hope to achieve
• Confirm all costs upfront: Ask whether the quoted price includes anesthesia, VAT, and follow-up appointments

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Thread lifting is a medical procedure that carries risks and potential complications. Individual results vary based on factors including age, skin condition, thread type, and the skill of the practitioner. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. The prices listed are estimates based on publicly available Korean medical platform data and may vary by clinic.

Last updated: February 2026. Prices and availability are subject to change. Always confirm current pricing directly with your chosen clinic.