Thread lifting basics
Thread lifting uses absorbable threads inserted beneath the skin to lift sagging facial tissues. It provides immediate mechanical lift and stimulates collagen over weeks, improving texture and support. Materials commonly used include PDO, PLLA, and PCL threads, each with different longevity and feel. The technique targets midface and lower face to restore contour without major incision.
Candidates include those with mild to moderate laxity seeking subtle changes. It is less invasive than surgery and often requires shorter downtime. Results typically emerge gradually and last roughly 12 to 18 months depending on thread type and metabolism.
Korean clinical outcomes
In Korea, clinics report natural improvements in jawline definition, cheek fullness, and nasolabial folds with thread lifting when performed by experienced practitioners. Many cases combine thread lifting with laser skin tightening or fillers to optimize symmetry and longevity. The results are gradual and harmonize with patient age and skin condition, reflecting Korea's preference for gentle rejuvenation.
Clinical data from diverse Korean cohorts show consistent satisfaction when treatment is individualized. Younger adults often pursue early lifting to preserve structure, while older patients seek targeted corrections. Maintenance sessions, typically after 12 to 18 months, help sustain lift as natural tissue remodeling occurs. Case studies emphasize the value of precise entry points and planned vector directions to avoid visible early thread migration.
Safety and complications
Like any procedure, thread lifting carries risks such as dimpling, asymmetry, thread visibility, or migration if technique is inadequate. Proper patient selection and planning reduce these risks, especially in tissues with severe laxity or thin skin. A skilled dermatologist evaluates anatomy, direction of lift, and chosen thread length to balance outcomes.
Post-procedure care includes avoiding aggressive facial massage, excessive rubbing, or heavy exertion for a short period. Patients should monitor for unusual swelling, tenderness, or puckering and report promptly to the clinic. Clinics in Korea emphasize informed consent and discuss potential effects with clear expectations.
PDO vs PLA threads
The main thread materials are polydioxanone PDO threads and polylactic acid PLA threads, each with distinct properties. PDO threads provide strong initial lift and dissolve within months, while PLA threads offer slower, longer-lasting stimulation as they gradually break down. Depending on the area and desired effect, physicians choose between fast-acting tightening and longer-term collagen support. In practice, many patients receive a mixed approach for a balanced result.
Areas like the midface and jawline may respond well to PDO threads for a subtle lift, while PLLA or PLA can be explored for deeper contours. Safety profiles are similar when performed by trained clinicians, but longevity comes with maintenance sessions. Cost and recovery vary, and clinicians tailor plans to skin quality and lifestyle. A coordinated plan may include energy-based devices to complement thread-based reinforcement.
Aesthetic trends in Korea
In Korea, thread lifting has become part of a broader, minimally invasive rejuvenation strategy favored by many adults. Clinics increasingly pair thread lifting with non-surgical contouring, laser skin tightening, and tightening energy devices to maximize symmetry. The trend favors natural results that maintain facial expressions while refining contours. Seasonal planning, especially in winter, drives precise scheduling to fit skin hydration and healing timelines.
Practitioners emphasize individualized plans, considering bone structure, soft tissue, and lifestyle. Data from leading Korean centers show high satisfaction when results are staged and refreshed over time. For patients, the message is clear: non-surgical tightening can be effective when performed by experienced teams. As trends evolve, the integration of thread lifting with regenerative approaches continues to grow.