Many people get confused the first time they hear the term “thread lifting”: Is it the same as “suture lifting” or “thread sculpting”? In fact, this treatment is what’s commonly referred to as suture lifting or thread sculpting. It involves inserting absorbable medical threads beneath the skin, using the physical pulling force of these threads along with stimulation to promote Collagen production, thereby achieving a tightening and lifting effect. This article will explain in detail how this treatment works, how many threads are needed, the common areas treated, its duration, and any side effects to be aware of. Direct answer: The number of threads used in Thread Lifting depends on the extent and severity of sagging; more threads aren’t necessarily better. It’s recommended to let the clinic director assess the area and determine the appropriate number first.
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Before undergoing this treatment, be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medications or aspirin, as such drugs can increase the risk of bruising.
If your skin is inflamed, infected, or you have a known allergy to the material of absorbable sutures, you should first discuss this in detail with your doctor before deciding whether the procedure is appropriate for you.
The number and location of the threads directly affect the price. Make sure to ask clearly whether the quote already includes all threads, so you can accurately compare different clinics.
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What exactly is this treatment? How is it different from ultrasound and radio waves?
Short answer: Thread Lifting is what’s commonly referred to as “thread lifting” or “thread sculpting.” It involves inserting absorbable medical threads beneath the skin, using the physical pull of these threads along with collagen stimulation to tighten and lift the skin—this works differently from treatments that use energy devices such as ultrasound or radio waves.
This treatment typically uses absorbable PDO (polydioxanone) sutures. Some of these sutures feature barbed designs that allow them to immediately grasp loose tissues once inserted beneath the skin, thereby creating a natural lifting effect. Over time, the sutures are gradually absorbed by the body, and this process also stimulates fibroblasts to produce new Collagen, resulting in a “second wave of tightening.” In contrast, devices like HIFU and Thermage rely on thermal energy from radiofrequency or focused ultrasound to stimulate deeper layers of tissue, without leaving any sutures beneath the skin. Since their mechanisms differ, many clinics recommend combining both approaches for more comprehensive results—however, the best plan can only be determined through an in-person consultation.
How many threads do I need to apply at once? What are the common areas?
There’s no fixed standard for the number of incisions—it depends primarily on the extent of sagging, the areas you want to improve, and your individual facial structure. Common treatment areas include Buccal Fat/Nasolabial Fold Correction, the lower jaw line, and neck wrinkles. Doctors will determine the direction and quantity of incisions based on the degree of facial sagging, usually starting with a moderate number to assess the results. More incisions may yield more noticeable coverage and lifting effects, but they also increase the risk of postoperative swelling and the cost. It’s not true that “the more incisions, the better”—only a personalized plan determined through a face consultation can give an accurate assessment.
How long can the results last?
PDO threads are generally absorbed by the body over a period of 6 to 12 months. However, the Collagen stimulation resulting from their absorption typically lasts around 1 year, though this can vary from person to person. Skin condition, age, and lifestyle habits such as smoking and sun exposure can all affect the rate at which Collagen is lost. To maintain the results, many people opt for regular follow-up appointments or incorporate at-home care routines.
Who is a good candidate for this treatment?
This approach is more suitable for those with mild to moderate sagging who want a natural lifting effect without undergoing surgery. If the sagging is already quite noticeable, relying solely on this kind of lifting might not be sufficient, and doctors may recommend combining it with other treatments.Phoenix Radio WaveIt can also be done together with ultrasound devices. It is generally not recommended for pregnant women, those with inflamed or infected skin, or those with a history of allergy to sutures. Whether it’s suitable in an individual case depends on a face-to-face evaluation by the clinic director.
What are the risks and side effects of this approach?
Common side effects include mild swelling, bruising, and a sense of stiffness after the procedure, all of which usually subside over a few days. Less common but still noteworthy risks include thread displacement, skin indentation (dimpleplasty-like marks), and asymmetry between the two sides. These issues are often related to the surgeon’s experience and technique in placing the threads, so it’s crucial to choose an experienced doctor at a reputable clinic. After the surgery, avoid vigorous facial massage, excessive mouth movements, and exposure to high temperatures to reduce the risk of thread displacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will this treatment be very painful?
Local anesthesia is administered before the procedure, and the pain during the surgery is generally tolerable. Mild swelling may occur after the operation, but it usually subsides within a few days.
Q2: Are these procedures and thread lifting two different things?
No, this treatment actually falls under the same category as “thread lifting” and “frown line threading” – it’s just that different clinics and regions use different terms for it.
Q3: How long after completing this treatment can I wear makeup/exercise?
It is generally recommended to wait 1 to 2 days after the procedure before applying makeup. For intense physical activities, it’s advised to wait until the swelling subsides—usually around 1 week—before resuming them. It’s best to follow the instructions given by your attending physician regarding the specific timeline.
Book a consultation at DAN-A in Myeongdong now!
If you’d like to find out more about whether this treatment is right for you, or if you’d prefer an in-person consultation with the clinic director, feel free to contact DAN-A in Myeongdong using the details below:
WhatsApp：
Number search: +821072188830
WhatsApp link:https://wa.me/821072188830
Instagram： Private message @dana_clinickrProvide the appointment date, number of people, and the issues you’d like to address, and the clinic will help arrange a time slot for Chinese-speaking service.
Clinic Name: DAN-A Clinic / 단아의원 / Myeongdong Dermatology
Subway: Exit 6 of Seoul Metro Line 2, “Euljiro Entrance Station,” about 1 to 2 minutes on foot
Business hours: According to the official booking page and latest announcements on Instagram, clinics in South Korea may be closed due to national holidays or schedule changes by the clinic owners. It’s recommended to check in advance before heading there.
The content in this article is for reference only. Actual treatment results may vary depending on individual constitution and skin condition. For a detailed assessment, please refer to the evaluation by the clinic director in person.