Thread Lift in Seoul (Hongdae): Non-Surgical Face Lifting
A thread lift uses dissolvable medical threads (such as PDO, PLLA or PCL) placed under the skin to lift sagging cheeks, jowls and jawline and stimulate collagen. It suits adults with mild to moderate sagging who want visible lift without surgery. Lift is visible immediately, and results typically last 12 to 18 months.
✦ Medically reviewed by the KLEAM Medical Team · Last updated:
Key facts at a glance
- Treatment time
- 30–60 min, depending on area
- Comfort
- Local anesthesia
- Downtime
- A few days of mild swelling or bruising
- Results visible
- Immediately; collagen builds over 4–8 weeks
- How long it lasts
- Typically 12–18 months
- Recommended sessions
- Usually 1; optional touch-up
Who it suits
- Sagging cheeks and deepening nasolabial folds
- Jowls and loss of jawline definition
- Mild neck laxity
- People wanting more lift than energy devices give, without surgery
- Those wanting both lift and collagen stimulation
Please consult us first if
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Active skin infection or inflammation
- Bleeding disorders or blood thinners (consult first)
- Very heavy or severe sagging that may need surgery
How it works
Under local anesthesia, the doctor inserts fine dissolvable threads beneath the skin with a needle or cannula. Barbed or cogged threads grip the tissue so it can be repositioned upward, giving an immediate lift.
Over the following weeks the threads gradually dissolve, while the body forms collagen around them. This supports the lift and improves skin firmness. Thread materials differ: PDO dissolves faster, while PLLA and PCL last longer and stimulate more collagen. The doctor chooses type and number of threads for your face.
You may feel pressure and tugging during the procedure. Afterward, tightness and mild soreness are common for several days.
How it compares
| Compared with | Difference |
|---|---|
| Ultherapy | Ultherapy lifts gradually with ultrasound and no needles, while threads give an immediate mechanical lift with a few days of downtime. |
| Thermage | Thermage tightens skin with radiofrequency, while threads physically reposition sagging tissue. |
| Surgical facelift | A thread lift is less invasive with shorter recovery, but its lift is milder and shorter-lasting than surgery. |
Your visit, step by step
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Message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk
Send your preferred date, time and any photos or questions about thread lift. Our English-speaking team replies with availability and what to expect. You can also call +82-10-7368-4441.
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Arrive at Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1
KLEAM Clinic Hongdae is on the 3rd floor of L7 Hongdae by LOTTE, 141 Yanghwa-ro, right by Exit 1 (Line 2, AREX Airport Railroad and Gyeongui-Jungang Line). Please arrive about 10 minutes early with your passport.
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Consultation in English
A doctor reviews your skin, medical history, medications and travel dates, explains whether thread lift suits you, and agrees a plan and quote before anything is done. Japanese-friendly support is also available.
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Treatment
Your thread lift session is performed in a private treatment room. Comfort measures such as numbing cream or cooling are used where appropriate, and you can ask questions at any point.
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Aftercare and flight tips
You leave with written aftercare in English. Avoid wide mouth opening, hard chewing, facial massage and strenuous activity for 5–7 days. Flying a day or two later is generally fine; leave a few days before important events or photos. Message us on WhatsApp if anything concerns you after you fly home.
Aftercare & travel tips
- Avoid strenuous activity, facial massage and excessive chewing for 5–7 days
- Sleep on your back with your head raised for the first few nights
- Avoid wide yawning or big facial expressions for about a week
- Skip saunas, alcohol and dental work for 1–2 weeks
- Flying a day or two after treatment is generally fine; stay hydrated
- Contact us if you notice increasing pain, redness or a thread poking through
Frequently asked questions
How much does a thread lift cost in Seoul?
Price depends on the thread type (PDO, PLLA, PCL or MINT), the number of threads and the area. Message us on WhatsApp with photos for guidance; the doctor confirms the exact plan and quote at consultation. Because every face and skin type is different, the doctor confirms what is suitable for you during your consultation, and results vary from person to person.
Does a thread lift hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia, so most people feel pressure and tugging rather than sharp pain. Soreness and tightness for several days afterward are common and usually manageable with simple painkillers the doctor advises. If you are visiting Seoul for a short time, tell us your travel dates when you book so the doctor can plan treatment timing around your flight.
What is the downtime?
Expect mild swelling, bruising or small dimples for a few days to a week. Most people return to normal activities quickly but should avoid strenuous activity, facial massage and hard chewing for 5 to 7 days. Our English-speaking team can answer follow-up questions on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk before your visit and after you return home.
Can I fly after a thread lift?
Flying a day or two afterward is generally fine. Swelling may feel more noticeable on a long flight. Ideally stay in Seoul a few days after treatment so the doctor can check you if needed. The doctor will also review your medical history, current medications and any previous treatments before recommending anything.
How long do results last?
Results typically last 12 to 18 months depending on thread type, age and lifestyle. Collagen built around the threads helps the effect last after they dissolve. Results vary between individuals. Written aftercare instructions in English are provided, and you can message us any time if something does not feel right.
Can I combine threads with Botox or Ultherapy?
Yes. Threads are often combined with Botox, fillers or energy-based lifting such as Ultherapy or Thermage. The doctor plans timing and order to keep treatments safe and effective. Booking early in your trip also leaves time for a quick check with the doctor before you leave Korea, if one is needed.
Last updated: 2026-10-01. This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Suitability, dosage and results vary by person and are decided with a doctor at your consultation.
Why international patients choose KLEAM
Visit us
KLEAM Clinic Hongdae
3F, L7 Hongdae by LOTTE, 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Right by Hongik Univ. Station Exit 1 (Line 2 · AREX · Gyeongui-Jungang)
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+82-10-7368-4441
Weekdays 10:30–20:30 · Weekends 10:30–17:00 · No lunch break
Explore popular treatments
Thread Lifting in Hongdae – Non-Surgical Lift for a Youthful, Defined Look
Looking to lift sagging skin and redefine your facial contours—without surgery or long downtime? Thread lifting is a popular, minimally invasive procedure that provides an instant lift and stimulates long-term collagen production. At our Hongdae clinic, we offer safe, expertly performed thread lift treatments using premium threads tailored to your facial structure and aesthetic goals.
What Is Thread Lifting?
Thread lifting is a non-surgical skin lifting procedure that uses dissolvable threads inserted beneath the skin to physically lift sagging tissue while stimulating collagen over time. The threads act as a scaffolding structure and trigger natural healing for firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin.
We use top-quality threads such as:
- PDO (Polydioxanone): Classic collagen-stimulating threads
- PLLA (Poly-L-lactic acid): Longer-lasting threads that offer volume enhancement
- PCL (Polycaprolactone): Extended-duration threads for deep lifting
- MINT™ Threads: Patented barbed threads with strong anchoring and FDA clearance
What Areas Can Be Treated with Thread Lifting?
Thread lifting is highly versatile and can treat:
- Jawline and jowls
- Sagging cheeks and midface
- Eyebrows and temples
- Neck and under-chin area
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Drooping mouth corners
The technique can also be used for non-surgical nose lifts and brow lifts.
Why Choose Thread Lifting?
Key Benefits:
✅ Instant lifting effect with natural-looking results
✅ Stimulates collagen for long-term skin firmness
✅ Minimally invasive—no incisions or general anesthesia
✅ Fast recovery with minimal downtime
✅ Customizable thread types and vectors
✅ Long-lasting results without a surgical facelift
What to Expect During Treatment
- Thorough consultation to assess your skin and lifting needs
- Cleansing and application of numbing cream
- Local anesthesia at entry points for comfort
- Insertion of threads using a fine cannula
- Gentle positioning and lifting of tissues along pre-marked vectors
- Entire procedure takes 30–60 minutes depending on the area
Who Is a Good Candidate for Thread Lifting?
Thread lifting is ideal for:
- Individuals in their 30s to 60s with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Those wanting a natural and subtle lift without surgery
- Patients who want to enhance facial definition
- People looking for collagen stimulation and skin rejuvenation
- Individuals in good health with realistic expectations
Are There Any Side Effects or Downtime?
Thread lifting is generally well-tolerated. You may experience:
- Mild swelling, redness, or bruising (resolves in a few days)
- Tenderness or tightness at thread paths
- Temporary dimpling or asymmetry (adjusts within 1–2 weeks)
Avoid strenuous activity, facial massage, and excessive chewing for 5–7 days post-treatment.
How Long Do Results Last?
- Immediate lift is visible right after the procedure
- Collagen regeneration continues over 4–8 weeks
- Results typically last 12–18 months depending on thread type, age, and lifestyle
- Touch-up treatments can help prolong and maintain results
Can Thread Lifting Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Absolutely. Thread lifting often works best in combination with:
- Botox to relax dynamic wrinkles
- Dermal fillers for volume restoration
- Shurink or Thermage for skin tightening
- Skin boosters (e.g., Rejuran, exosomes) for hydration and texture improvement
A combination approach delivers a more comprehensive and youthful rejuvenation.
Book Your Thread Lift Consultation in Hongdae Today
Ready to lift, contour, and refresh your look—without surgery?
Schedule your customized thread lifting consultation at our Hongdae clinic and experience a safe, effective, and natural way to turn back the clock. Reveal a firmer, more sculpted you with thread lifting tailored just for you.
