Treatment Overview
PDO Thread Lifting is one of Korea’s signature non-surgical lifting procedures, designed to tighten sagging skin, redefine facial contours, and stimulate collagen for long-lasting rejuvenation. PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are biocompatible sutures safely absorbed by the body over several months, leaving behind a natural collagen scaffold that supports firmer, lifted skin.
Unlike surgical facelifts, PDO thread lifts offer an instant yet natural lift with minimal downtime. Korean dermatologists are world leaders in V-line and 3D thread lifting techniques, often combining threads with Botox, fillers, or skin boosters to achieve harmonious anti-aging results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Immediate Lift: Elevates sagging cheeks, jawline, and brows.
- Collagen Stimulation: Improves elasticity and skin density.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Softens nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and neck wrinkles.
- Facial Contouring: Creates the Korean “V-line” jawline.
- Skin Texture Improvement: Threads stimulate collagen for smoother skin.
- Natural Results: Enhances youthfulness without an artificial look.
- Non-Surgical & Safe: Quick procedure with shorter recovery than surgery.
Ideal Candidates
PDO Thread Lifting in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults in their 30s–60s with mild to moderate sagging.
- Patients wanting jawline definition or a V-line effect.
- Individuals with wrinkles or folds around the mouth and cheeks.
- Men and women seeking non-surgical alternatives to facelift.
- Patients who had fillers or Botox but need structural lifting.
- Those looking for gradual collagen-boosting rejuvenation.
Possible Risks & Complications
PDO threads are safe when performed by skilled Korean doctors, but possible risks include:
- Swelling & Bruising: Common, lasts 1–2 weeks.
- Mild Pain or Tightness: Temporary, improves as threads settle.
- Surface Irregularities: Rare, corrected with massage or thread adjustment.
- Infection: Very rare with sterile technique.
- Thread Migration/Breakage: Extremely rare in top clinics using high-quality threads.
Techniques Used in Korea
Korean dermatologists are global pioneers in thread lifting, applying:
- Mono Threads (Smooth): For collagen stimulation and skin quality.
- Cog Threads (Barbed): For lifting sagging tissues in cheeks, jowls, and jawline.
- Screw/Tornado Threads: For volume restoration in hollow areas.
- 3D/4D Multi-Thread Techniques: Provide stronger, longer-lasting lifts.
- V-Line PDO Thread Mapping: Creates a defined jawline and slimmer face.
- Combination Therapy: Threads paired with Botox, HA fillers, or lasers for optimal glow + lift.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately After: Mild swelling, tightness, or bruising.
- 1–2 Weeks: Bruising fades, skin feels firmer.
- 3–4 Weeks: Lift becomes more natural, collagen regeneration begins.
- 3–6 Months: Peak results visible as collagen matures.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid exaggerated facial movements for 1–2 weeks.
- Refrain from chewing hard foods or opening the mouth widely.
- Sleep on your back for the first week to avoid pressure on threads.
- Avoid sauna, alcohol, or vigorous exercise for 2 weeks.
- Use gentle skincare and SPF to maintain results.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Noticeable lift of sagging areas.
- Short-Term (1–2 Months): Skin texture improves, wrinkles soften.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Collagen regeneration enhances firmness.
- Long-Term: Results last 12–18 months; threads naturally dissolve but collagen scaffolding remains.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Mapping – Doctor analyzes sagging areas and designs a thread placement plan.
- Preparation – Numbing cream or local anesthesia applied.
- Thread Insertion – PDO threads inserted with fine cannulas or needles.
- Post-Care – Cooling packs applied; patient receives aftercare guidelines.
- Follow-Up – Optional check within 2–3 weeks for evaluation.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Global pioneers of PDO thread lifting and advanced thread design.
- Expertise in V-line lifting and collagen-based rejuvenation.
- Integration with fillers, Botox, and skin boosters for complete anti-aging.
- Safe, KFDA-approved premium threads used in leading clinics.
- Affordable compared to Western thread lift procedures.
- Seoul’s reputation as the hub for thread lifting and facial contouring.
Cost Range
The cost of PDO Thread Lifting in Korea varies by type, number of threads, and area treated:
- Mono Thread (per session): USD 300 – 600
- Partial Lift (Jawline or Midface): USD 800 – 1,500
- Full Face PDO Thread Lift: USD 1,500 – 3,000
- PDO Lift + Filler/Botox Combo: USD 2,000 – 4,500
- Luxury Anti-Aging Package (PDO + Exosome/PRP + Skin Boosters): USD 3,500 – 6,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 80
- Numbing or sedation fee: USD 50 – 200
- Post-care (soothing mask, boosters): USD 100 – 300
💡 Many patients describe PDO thread lifting as an “instant lift with collagen insurance”—offering immediate contouring and longer-lasting rejuvenation through collagen stimulation.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Leaders in V-line PDO lifting.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in combination PDO + filler lifts.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Experts in scar, wrinkle, and collagen threads.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for PDO thread lifts with facial contouring programs.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Luxury thread lift + regenerative care packages.
