Thread Lifting in Korea: Complete PDO & COG Thread Guide 2025

Want the results of a facelift without going under the knife? Thread lifting (실리프팅) has become one of Korea's most popular non-surgical face lifting solutions, offering immediate visible lifting combined with long-term collagen stimulation—all in under an hour with minimal downtime.

Unlike energy-based devices like Ulthera or Thermage that work through heat, thread lifting uses absorbable medical sutures inserted beneath the skin to physically lift sagging tissue while triggering natural collagen production. The results are instant, the recovery is quick, and prices in Seoul start from just ₩250,000 ($192) for targeted treatments.

But with dozens of thread types, brands, and techniques available in Korean clinics, navigating your options can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know—from PDO vs. PLLA threads and COG vs. mono structures, to realistic pricing in Seoul's top clinics and what recovery actually looks like.

What is Thread Lifting?

The Science Behind Absorbable Threads

Thread lifting (also called PDO thread lift or COG thread lift) is a minimally invasive procedure that inserts dissolvable medical sutures into the subcutaneous layer of the skin to:

1. Mechanically lift sagging skin and tissue (immediate effect)
2. Stimulate collagen production as threads dissolve over months (gradual improvement)
3. Tighten skin texture through fibrosis around the thread (long-term effect)

How It's Different from Surgery

The Korean Innovation

Korean aesthetic medicine has pioneered several thread technologies now used globally:

• Mint Lift: 360-degree barbed threads (developed in Korea)
• Ultra V Lift: Mesh-pattern PDO threads
• Advanced insertion techniques minimizing visible dimpling
• Combination protocols pairing threads with energy devices

Thread Types: Understanding Your Options

By Material Composition

1. PDO (PolyDiOxanone) Threads

The original and most widely used thread material.

Properties:

• Absorption time: 6-8 months
• Effect duration: 12-18 months (collagen remains after thread dissolves)
• Tissue reaction: Minimal inflammatory response
• Strength: Moderate pulling power
• Best for: First-time thread lift patients, subtle lifting

Advantages:

• Longest track record (used in medical sutures for decades)
• Lower cost
• Proven safety profile
• Stimulates Type I and Type III collagen

Disadvantages:

• Shorter duration than PLLA/PCL
• May require more threads for dramatic lifting

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

Premium option with extended duration.

Properties:

• Absorption time: 18-24 months
• Effect duration: 2-3 years
• Tissue reaction: Strong collagen stimulation
• Strength: Superior tensile strength
• Best for: Patients seeking maximum longevity

Advantages:

• Longest-lasting results
• Powerful collagen production (same material as Sculptra)
• Better for severe sagging

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost (2-3x PDO price)
• Slightly longer recovery

3. PCL (PolyCaproLactone) Threads

Newest material gaining popularity.

Properties:

• Absorption time: 24-36 months
• Effect duration: 2-3 years
• Tissue reaction: Gradual, sustained collagen formation
• Strength: Highest tensile strength
• Best for: Patients wanting ultra-long-lasting results

Advantages:

• Slowest absorption = longest duration
• Strongest lifting power
• Less visible dimpling (slower degradation)

Disadvantages:

• Most expensive option
• Limited availability in some clinics

By Thread Structure

1. Mono (Smooth) Threads

Description: Thin, smooth threads without barbs or cogs.

Mechanism: Create a mesh-like support network beneath skin.

Primary Effect:

• Collagen stimulation (minimal immediate lifting)
• Skin tightening and texture refinement
• Fine line reduction

Typical Use:

• Under-eye area
• Forehead
• Neck
• Areas needing texture improvement, not dramatic lifting

Cost: ₩5,000-₩15,000 per thread ($4-$12)

2. COG (Barbed/Toothed) Threads

Description: Threads with tiny barbs or cogs that anchor into tissue.

Mechanism: Barbs grip subcutaneous tissue and physically pull it upward.

Primary Effect:

• Immediate visible lifting
• Tissue repositioning
• Jawline definition

Typical Use:

• Mid-face lifting
• Jowl reduction
• Jawline contouring
• Nasolabial fold improvement

Types:

• Uni-directional COG: Barbs in one direction (stronger pull, one anchor point)
• Bi-directional COG: Barbs in both directions (dual anchor, distributed tension)

Cost: ₩30,000-₩100,000 per thread ($23-$77)

3. Screw/Volume Threads

Description: Spiral or twisted threads creating volume.

Mechanism: Twisted structure occupies more space, adding volume while lifting.

Primary Effect:

• Volume restoration (temples, cheeks)
• Combines lifting with plumping
• Severe skin laxity

Typical Use:

• Hollow temples
• Sunken cheeks
• Deep nasolabial folds

Cost: ₩40,000-₩120,000 per thread ($31-$92)

Popular Thread Brands in Korea

Mint Lift (민트리프팅)

Origin: Korea Unique Feature: 360-degree rose-thorn barbs for maximum grip Material: PDO Best For: Aggressive lifting with strong anchor

Advantages:

• Extremely strong pulling power
• Less thread slippage
• Popular for V-line lifting

Average Price: ₩60,000-₩90,000 per thread ($46-$69)

Ultra V Lift (울트라브이리프팅)

Origin: Korea Unique Feature: Various configurations (mono, COG, mesh) Material: PDO Best For: Versatile - suitable for all areas

Advantages:

• Extensive product line
• High Korean market penetration
• Proven local track record

Average Price: ₩40,000-₩80,000 per thread ($31-$62)

Silhouette Soft

Origin: USA (FDA-approved) Unique Feature: Cone anchors instead of barbs Material: PLLA + Glycolide Best For: Patients wanting FDA-approved option

Advantages:

• Strong international safety data
• Bi-directional cones distribute tension evenly
• Less risk of visible dimpling

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost
• Longer recovery (more inflammation from cones)

Average Price: ₩150,000-₩250,000 per thread ($115-$192)

Blue Rose (블루로즈)

Origin: Korea Unique Feature: Rose petal-shaped barbs Material: PDO Best For: Mid-face and cheek lifting

Average Price: ₩50,000-₩90,000 per thread ($38-$69)

Thread Lifting Prices in Korea (2025)

Seoul Average Pricing

By Treatment Area

Per Thread Pricing

Price Variation Factors

Location:

• Gangnam/Apgujeong: ₩80,000-₩120,000 per thread (premium)
• Myeongdong: ₩50,000-₩90,000 per thread (mid-range)
• Hongdae/Other areas: ₩40,000-₩70,000 per thread (budget-friendly)

Thread Material:

• PDO: Baseline pricing (see above)
• PLLA: +50-100% more expensive
• PCL: +80-150% more expensive

Brand:

• Korean brands (Mint Lift, Ultra V): Standard pricing
• Imported brands (Silhouette Soft): +100-200%

Package Deals

Many Seoul clinics offer discounts:

• First-time patient: 10-20% off
• Full face packages: 15-25% off vs. individual thread pricing
• Combination with energy devices: Bundled discount (10-15%)

Statistical Average (2025):

• Overall thread lifting average: ₩554,062 (~$426)
• Mid-range full face: ₩831,700 (~$640)

The Treatment Process

Pre-Treatment Consultation (15-20 minutes)

Assessment:

1. Face mapping to identify sagging zones
2. Skin laxity grading (mild, moderate, severe)
3. Discussion of realistic expectations
4. Thread type and count recommendation
5. Before photos from multiple angles

Medical History Review:

• Current medications (especially blood thinners)
• Previous face procedures
• Keloid or hypertrophic scar tendency
• Allergies

Procedure Steps (30-60 minutes)

Step 1: Marking (5 minutes)

• Entry and exit points marked on skin
• Vector lines drawn to indicate lifting direction

Step 2: Anesthesia (10 minutes)

• Topical numbing cream application
• Local anesthetic injections at insertion points
• Wait time for full numbness

Step 3: Thread Insertion (20-40 minutes)

For COG Threads:

1. Cannula (blunt needle) inserted through tiny entry point
2. Cannula advanced along marked vector
3. Thread deployed and cannula withdrawn
4. Thread anchored (barbs grip tissue automatically)
5. Excess thread trimmed at entry point
6. Entry point closed (no stitches needed)

For Mono Threads:

1. Thin needle with pre-loaded thread inserted
2. Thread deposited in mesh pattern
3. Needle withdrawn, thread remains
4. Multiple threads placed in grid formation

Step 4: Shaping and Adjustment (5 minutes)

• Doctor manually shapes and positions lifted tissue
• Symmetry check
• Final adjustments

Step 5: Post-Procedure Care (5 minutes)

• Ice pack application
• Anti-inflammatory medication dispensed
• Aftercare instruction sheet
• Follow-up appointment scheduled

Total clinic time: 60-90 minutes

Pain Level

During Procedure: 2-3/10 (with local anesthesia)

• Pressure sensation during thread insertion
• Occasional sharp pinch
• Tugging feeling during anchoring

After Procedure: 3-5/10 (first 24-48 hours)

• Tender soreness (like post-dental work)
• Discomfort when talking or chewing
• Tightness sensation

Pain Management:

• Acetaminophen/paracetamol (avoid ibuprofen/aspirin for 7 days)
• Cold compress
• Sleep elevated
• Most pain resolves within 3-5 days

Recovery Timeline and Aftercare

Immediate (Day 0-1)

What's Normal:

• Moderate swelling (worse on Day 2)
• Mild to moderate bruising at insertion sites
• Tightness and pulling sensation
• Difficulty opening mouth wide
• Slight facial asymmetry (from swelling)

What to Do:

• Sleep elevated (2-3 pillows) to reduce swelling
• Ice packs 15 minutes every hour (Day 0-1)
• Liquid or soft diet
• Gentle face washing (pat dry, don't rub)

What to Avoid:

• Touching or massaging face
• Sleeping on your side
• Wide mouth opening (no big yawns, burgers, apples)
• Dental work
• Vigorous exercise

Early Recovery (Days 2-7)

What's Normal:

• Peak swelling on Days 2-3, then gradual reduction
• Bruising yellowing and fading
• Continued tightness (threads settling)
• Possible dimpling or puckering (usually resolves)
• Mild pain when smiling widely or chewing

What to Do:

• Continue sleeping elevated
• Gradual return to normal diet
• Arnica cream for bruising
• Gentle skincare resume (no actives)

What to Avoid:

• Face down sleeping (can shift threads)
• Facial massage or aggressive skincare
• Saunas, hot yoga, intense cardio
• Facials or other treatments
• Extreme facial expressions

Stabilization (Weeks 2-4)

What's Happening:

• Swelling 80-90% resolved
• Threads fully integrated into tissue
• Collagen formation beginning
• Dimples/irregularities smoothing out

What to Do:

• Resume normal activities
• Light exercise permitted (no heavy lifting)
• Gentle facial massage OK after Week 3

What to Avoid:

• Aggressive massage or facial manipulation
• Other injectables (wait 4 weeks minimum)
• Laser treatments (wait 4-6 weeks)

Long-Term (Months 1-6)

Results Evolution:

• Month 1: Immediate lifting stabilizes
• Months 2-3: Collagen production peaks (gradual tightening)
• Months 4-6: Maximum combined effect (lifting + neocollagenesis)
• Months 6-12: Plateau phase
• Months 12-18: Gradual return toward baseline (PDO threads)
• Months 12-24+: Extended duration (PLLA/PCL threads)

Results: What to Realistically Expect

Immediate Effects (Day 1)

What You'll See:

• Visible lifting of sagging tissue (through swelling)
• Sharper jawline definition
• Elevated cheeks
• Reduced jowling

What You Won't See:

• Final results (swelling distorts appearance)
• Skin texture improvement (comes later with collagen)

Peak Results (Months 2-6)

Typical Improvements:

Mild Sagging (Age 30-40, preventative):

• 30-50% improvement in jowl appearance
• Subtle jawline sharpening
• Modest nasolabial fold softening
• Overall "refreshed" look

Moderate Sagging (Age 40-55):

• 50-70% improvement (comparable to mini-facelift)
• Noticeable mid-face elevation
• Defined jawline restoration
• Visible jowl reduction

Severe Sagging (Age 55+):

• 30-50% improvement (threads alone may be insufficient)
• Temporary improvement; surgery likely better long-term option
• Best combined with energy devices

Duration of Results

Factors Affecting Duration:

• Skin quality and thickness
• Degree of initial sagging
• Lifestyle (smoking, sun damage accelerate thread breakdown)
• Facial movement patterns (very expressive faces see faster thread loosening)
• Skincare and maintenance treatments

Side Effects and Complications

Common Temporary Side Effects (Expected)

1. Swelling (100% of patients)

• Peak: Days 2-3
• Duration: 7-14 days for majority to resolve
• Asymmetric swelling is normal

2. Bruising (40-70% of patients)

• Duration: 5-14 days
• Easily concealed with makeup after Day 3

3. Tenderness (100% of patients)

• Duration: 3-10 days
• Worse with talking, chewing, smiling

4. Dimpling/Puckering (30-50% of patients)

• Small depressions where threads create tension
• Usually resolves within 2-4 weeks as threads settle
• Gentle massage after Week 2 can help

5. Tightness (100% of patients)

• Feeling of facial restriction
• Duration: 2-6 weeks
• Gradually improves as tissue adapts

Uncommon but Manageable Complications

6. Visible Thread Contour (5-10% of patients)

• Thread visible as a line under thin skin
• More common with COG threads in thin-skinned areas
• May resolve with time or require thread removal

7. Asymmetry (10-20% of patients initially)

• Often due to uneven swelling initially
• Persistent asymmetry may require touch-up
• Free correction within 2-4 weeks at most clinics

8. Limited Mouth Opening (Trismus) (5-15%)

• Temporary difficulty opening mouth wide
• Caused by threads near masseter muscle
• Resolves within 2-4 weeks

Rare Serious Complications

9. Infection (< 1%)

• Signs: Increasing redness, warmth, pus, fever
• Treatment: Antibiotics; thread removal if severe
• Prevention: Sterile technique, avoid touching face

10. Thread Migration/Extrusion (1-3%)

• Thread moves from original position or pokes through skin
• Causes: Poor technique, premature facial massage, thin skin
• Treatment: Thread removal (simple office procedure)

11. Nerve Damage (< 0.5%)

• Temporary facial nerve weakness
• Most recover within 3-6 months
• Permanent damage extremely rare with experienced practitioners

12. Granuloma Formation (< 1%)

• Inflammatory nodule around thread
• Feels like hard lump under skin
• Treatment: Steroid injection or thread removal

Thread Lifting vs. Other Treatments

How It Compares

Thread Lifting vs. Ulthera: Which to Choose?

Choose Thread Lifting If:

• You want immediate visible results
• You have moderate to severe sagging (threads excel here)
• You're willing to accept 3-7 days downtime
• You prefer physical lifting over heat-based tightening
• Budget is a concern (threads are 40-60% cheaper)

Choose Ulthera If:

• You cannot afford any downtime
• You have mild sagging (Ulthera may suffice)
• You're very pain-sensitive but want results (Ulthera painful during, no recovery pain)
• You want FDA-approved technology with extensive safety data
• You prefer gradual, natural-looking improvement over instant change

The Korean Solution: Combine Both

Many Seoul clinics recommend:

• Ulthera first (build collagen foundation, tighten deep SMAS layer)
• Thread lifting 2-4 weeks later (add mechanical lift to Ulthera's tightening)

Combined Benefits:

• Ulthera addresses deep tissue laxity
• Threads provide surface lifting Ulthera can't achieve
• Results superior to either treatment alone
• Total cost: $1,200-$2,500 (still fraction of surgery)

Combination Treatments

Popular Thread Pairing Protocols in Seoul

1. Threads + Ulthera

Sequence: Ulthera → wait 2-4 weeks → Thread lifting

Why It Works:

• Ulthera heats and tightens SMAS layer (deep)
• Threads lift subcutaneous and dermal layers (superficial to mid)
• No overlap in mechanisms = synergistic effect

Total Cost: ₩1,500,000-₩3,000,000 ($1,154-$2,308)

2. Threads + Skin Boosters (Rejuran, Profhilo)

Sequence: Thread lifting → wait 2 weeks → Skin booster

Why It Works:

• Threads create structural support
• Skin boosters improve skin quality and hydration
• Enhanced collagen production from combined stimulation

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

3. Threads + Botox + Filler

The "Liquid Facelift + Threads"

Sequence:

1. Thread lifting first
2. Wait 2 weeks
3. Botox (relax muscles that work against threads)
4. Filler (add volume to complement lifting)

Why It Works:

• Threads lift sagging tissue
• Botox prevents downward muscle pull
• Filler restores lost volume
• Comprehensive rejuvenation without surgery

Total Cost: ₩1,200,000-₩2,500,000 ($923-$1,923)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How painful is thread lifting?

A: With local anesthesia, pain during the procedure is minimal (2-3/10)—mostly pressure and tugging sensations. Post-procedure discomfort is moderate (3-5/10) for the first 2-3 days, feeling like soreness after dental work. Most patients manage well with over-the-counter pain medication.

Q: When will I see results?

A: You'll see immediate lifting once swelling subsides (7-10 days). However, final results appear at 4-6 weeks when threads have fully settled and initial collagen formation begins. Maximum effect occurs at 2-6 months when neocollagenesis peaks.

Q: How long do thread lifts last?

A: PDO threads last 12-18 months, PLLA threads last 24-36 months, and PCL threads last 24-36 months. The threads themselves absorb faster (6-24 months depending on material), but the collagen they stimulate provides continued effect even after thread dissolution.

Q: Will people be able to tell I had something done?

A: With skilled technique, results should look natural—like a refreshed, rested version of yourself. Avoid overly aggressive thread placement. The first week post-procedure may show swelling and possible dimpling, but these resolve. After 2-4 weeks, results should be undetectable to others.

Q: Can threads break or snap inside my face?

A: Medical-grade absorbable threads are extremely strong and designed to withstand normal facial movement. Breakage is exceptionally rare (< 0.1%). If it occurred, the broken thread would simply absorb harmlessly over time.

Q: What if I don't like the results?

A: Unlike dermal fillers (which can be dissolved), threads cannot be instantly reversed. However, they can be removed by a skilled practitioner if necessary, though this requires a minor procedure. This is why choosing an experienced doctor is critical.

Q: How many threads do I need?

A: Typical thread counts by area:

• Full face lift: 8-12 COG threads
• Mid-face: 4-6 threads per side
• Jawline: 2-4 threads per side
• Eyebrow lift: 1-2 threads per side

Your doctor will customize based on your degree of sagging.

Q: Can I get thread lifting if I've had fillers or Botox?

A: Yes, but timing matters:

• After fillers: Wait 2-4 weeks before thread lifting
• After Botox: Wait 2 weeks before thread lifting
• Before fillers/Botox: Wait 2 weeks after thread lifting

Always inform your thread lift doctor about recent procedures.

Q: Will my face look unnatural or frozen?

A: No. Thread lifting does not affect muscle movement (unlike Botox). You'll maintain full facial expressions. Overly tight or "pulled" appearance only occurs with excessive thread placement—work with conservative practitioners who prioritize natural results.

Q: How often can I repeat thread lifting?

A: Most patients repeat every 12-24 months depending on thread material. There's no limit to how many times you can have thread lifting, as threads are fully absorbable and don't accumulate.

Q: Are there age limits for thread lifting?

A: Generally recommended for ages 30-65:

• 30s-40s: Preventative lifting, best results
• 40s-50s: Ideal candidates with moderate sagging
• 50s-60s: Good results if skin quality decent
• 65+: Diminishing returns; surgery often better option

Q: Can men get thread lifting?

A: Absolutely! Thread lifting is increasingly popular among Korean men, particularly for jawline definition and jowl reduction. Male skin is typically thicker, which can actually provide better thread anchoring.

Q: What happens if threads become visible under my skin?

A: Visible thread contours occur in 5-10% of cases, usually in very thin-skinned areas. Most resolve within 4-8 weeks as the thread softens and tissue adapts. If persistent, the thread can be removed (simple procedure) or massaged to reposition.

Q: Can I have MRI scans after thread lifting?

A: Yes. Absorbable threads (PDO, PLLA, PCL) are completely MRI-safe. Unlike permanent threads or metal implants, they will not cause imaging artifacts or safety issues.

Finding the Right Clinic in Seoul

What to Look For

Qualifications:

• Board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist
• Minimum 3-5 years experience specifically with thread lifting
• Before/after photo portfolio demonstrating natural results
• Understanding of facial anatomy (avoiding nerve/vessel damage)

Red Flags:

• Prices significantly below market average (₩250,000 for full face = suspicious)
• Non-medical staff performing procedures
• Pressure to add unnecessary threads or procedures
• Unwillingness to explain thread brand/type
• No consultation, immediate procedure

Questions to Ask

1. "Which thread brand and material will you use?" (Get specific: PDO/PLLA/PCL, brand name)
2. "How many threads do you recommend for my degree of sagging?" (Beware over-recommendation)
3. "What's your complication rate and how do you handle them?" (Free correction policy?)
4. "Can I see before/after photos of similar age and sagging level to mine?"
5. "What's included in the price?" (Anesthesia, follow-up, touch-ups?)
6. "What's your refund or revision policy if I'm unsatisfied?"

Top Seoul Areas for Thread Lifting

Gangnam District

• Highest concentration of experienced practitioners
• Premium pricing but best expertise
• English-speaking staff common
• Popular clinic zones: Apgujeong Rodeo, Cheongdam, Gangnam Station

Myeongdong

• Tourist-friendly with competitive pricing
• Many clinics experienced with international patients
• Mid-range pricing (10-20% cheaper than Gangnam)

Sinsa/Garosugil

• Boutique aesthetic clinics
• Focus on natural, subtle results
• Mid-to-premium pricing

The Korean Approach to Thread Lifting

Cultural Context

In Korea, thread lifting represents the "mini-surgery alternative"—a bridge between non-invasive energy devices and full surgical facelifts.

Korean Threading Philosophy:

• Conservative thread placement (avoid over-lifting)
• Emphasis on V-line creation (Korean beauty standard)
• Combination approach (threads + devices + injectables)
• Preventative use starting in 30s (before severe sagging develops)

Age Demographics:

• 30s: Preventative thread lifting (4-6 threads, subtle)
• 40s: Maintenance and moderate correction (6-10 threads)
• 50s+: Correction of established sagging (8-12 threads or surgery consideration)

Natural vs. Dramatic: The Korean Standard

Korean aesthetic clinics prioritize "natural enhancement" over dramatic transformation:

• Subtle jawline sharpening (not extreme V-line)
• Soft mid-face elevation (not overly taut)
• Preservation of facial mobility and expressions
• Results that age well (avoid over-correction that becomes obvious as threads absorb)

This philosophy contrasts with some international approaches that favor more aggressive thread placement for maximum immediate impact.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is It Worth It?

Comparing Value Propositions

Thread Lifting (Average ₩831,700 / $640 every 18 months):

Annual Cost: ~$427/year (PDO threads)

What You Get:

• Immediate visible lifting
• 12-18 months of improvement
• Collagen stimulation benefits
• Minimal downtime (3-7 days)

Non-Surgical Alternatives:

Surgical Alternative:

10-Year Cost Comparison

Assuming repeat treatments at recommended intervals:

Who Gets the Best Value?

Thread Lifting is Best For:

• Ages 35-55 with moderate sagging
• People who can tolerate 1 week downtime every 1-2 years
• Those wanting immediate results
• Budget-conscious patients ($400-600/year)
• Patients testing non-surgical options before considering surgery

Thread Lifting May Not Be Worth It For:

• Very mild sagging (energy devices may suffice)
• Severe sagging (surgery likely more cost-effective long-term)
• Those unable to follow post-procedure restrictions
• Patients seeking permanent solution (consider surgery)

Medical Disclaimer

Important Safety Information:

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Thread lifting is a medical procedure involving insertion of medical devices under the skin and should only be performed by qualified, licensed medical professionals.

Potential risks include but are not limited to:

• Infection
• Thread migration, extrusion, or breakage
• Nerve damage resulting in temporary or permanent facial weakness
• Asymmetry requiring revision
• Visible dimpling or puckering
• Allergic reactions
• Hematoma (blood collection under skin)
• Skin irregularities or contour deformities

Before undergoing treatment:

• Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist
• Disclose your complete medical history, including medications, supplements, and previous procedures
• Discuss realistic expectations based on your degree of sagging
• Ensure the clinic uses FDA-approved or Korean MFDS-approved threads
• Verify the medical doctor (not nurse or aesthetician) will perform the procedure
• Understand the revision and complication management policy

Contraindications: Thread lifting is not suitable for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Active skin infection or inflammation in treatment area
• Bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medication (unless cleared by doctor)
• Autoimmune connective tissue disorders
• History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
• Unrealistic expectations

Results vary: Individual outcomes depend on skin quality, degree of sagging, thread type, practitioner skill, and post-procedure care. The timeframes and effects described in this guide are typical but not guaranteed.

Always prioritize safety over cost savings. Suspiciously low prices may indicate inexperienced practitioners, poor-quality threads, or unsanitary conditions.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Thread Lifting in Korea

Thread lifting has earned its reputation as one of the most effective non-surgical face lifting options available, offering the rare combination of immediate mechanical lifting and long-term collagen stimulation. At $192-$1,154 for dramatic improvement lasting 1-2 years, it represents exceptional value for patients with moderate sagging who aren't ready for surgery.

The Bottom Line:

✅ Worth it if you have: Moderate jowling, sagging mid-face, descent of cheek tissue, age 35-60, willingness to accept 3-7 days social downtime

✅ Best value: PDO COG threads from reputable Korean brands (Mint Lift, Ultra V) for first-timers; PLLA for maximum longevity

✅ Realistic expectations: 50-70% improvement in moderate sagging; immediate lifting that improves further over 2-6 months; natural, refreshed appearance

✅ Commitment level: Repeat every 12-24 months for sustained results; annual cost ~$400-700

❌ Skip it if: You have very mild sagging (try Ulthera/Thermage first), severe sagging (surgery better option), cannot tolerate any downtime, or want permanent results

Final Recommendation:

For international visitors to Seoul considering facial rejuvenation, thread lifting deserves serious consideration—especially for moderate sagging where energy devices alone provide insufficient lift but surgery feels excessive. Korea's advanced threading techniques, competitive pricing, and experienced practitioners make it an ideal destination for this procedure.

The key is choosing a skilled, conservative practitioner who prioritizes natural results over aggressive over-lifting. When done well, thread lifting can turn back the clock 5-7 years with minimal downtime and cost a fraction of surgical alternatives.

Ready to explore thread lifting in Seoul? Start your consultations in Gangnam or Myeongdong, ask specifically about thread material and count, review before/after photos carefully, and prepare to discover the lifting power of modern absorbable thread technology.

This guide was last updated in January 2025 with current Seoul pricing and thread technology information. Prices and treatment protocols may vary by clinic and individual patient needs. Always consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.