What Is a Thread Lift?

A Thread Lift (실리프팅) is a minimally invasive anti-aging procedure that lifts and tightens sagging skin using biodegradable threads placed beneath the surface of the skin.
At QD Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Dr. Hong uses the latest PDO, PLLA, and PCL lifting threads to provide immediate lifting and long-term collagen regeneration — delivering natural, youthful results with minimal downtime.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Thread Lift?

This treatment is ideal for men and women who:

• Want to improve mild to moderate facial sagging without surgery
• Prefer quick recovery and subtle, natural enhancement
• Have early signs of skin laxity around cheeks, jawline, or neck
• Want to maintain facelift results or delay the need for surgery

A thread lift is perfect for patients in their late 20s to 50s seeking a refreshed and lifted appearance without scars or general anesthesia.

Areas That Can Be Treated

• Cheeks and mid-face
• Jawline and jowls
• Nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Eyebrows and forehead
• Neck and chin area

How the Thread Lift Works

Dr. Hong strategically inserts fine lifting threads under the skin using a cannula. These threads gently anchor and elevate sagging tissues, while stimulating collagen production over time for longer-lasting firmness.
The threads naturally dissolve within months, but the lifted effect and skin-tightening continue for up to 12–18 months thanks to new collagen growth.

Types of Threads Used at QD Plastic Surgery

1. PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads

• Ideal for light to moderate lifting
• Stimulates collagen and tightens skin texture

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

• Provides longer-lasting results (up to 18 months)
• Encourages deep collagen synthesis

3. PCL (Polycaprolactone) Threads

• Advanced long-term lifting thread (2 years+)
• Offers soft yet stable results for mature skin

Step-by-Step Procedure

StepDescriptionConsultationFacial assessment and lift mapping by Dr. HongAnesthesiaLocal anesthesia or numbing cream for comfortThread InsertionThreads are placed under the skin with fine cannulasAdjustmentSkin is lifted and anchored for symmetryRecoveryMinimal swelling; patients return to normal activity within 1–2 days

Benefits of a Thread Lift

✨ Instant lifting and tightening
✨ Stimulates collagen for long-term rejuvenation
✨ No scars or surgical incisions
✨ Minimal downtime (return to work the next day)
✨ Natural, youthful facial contour

Aftercare & Recovery Tips

🩹 Mild swelling or tenderness may occur for 2–3 days
🩹 Avoid facial massages or heavy expression for 1 week
🩹 Sleep on your back for the first 5 nights
🩹 Refrain from alcohol and intense exercise for 3 days
🩹 Follow up with Dr. Hong for post-lift evaluation

Estimated Cost in Seoul

💰 PDO Thread Lift (basic lift): ₩1.5 – ₩2.5 million
💰 PLLA Thread Lift (longer-lasting): ₩2.5 – ₩3.5 million
💰 PCL Premium Lift / Full Face: ₩3.5 – ₩5 million
(Price varies by thread type, area, and number of threads used.)

Why Choose Dr. Hong at QD Plastic Surgery

• Expert in both non-surgical and surgical lifting for tailored results
• Uses premium, Korean FDA-approved thread materials
• Custom lift design based on individual facial anatomy
• Located in Sinnonhyeon, Gangnam for convenient access
• English, Chinese, and Japanese-speaking consultation available