A comprehensive guide to South Korea’s thread lifting treatments in 2026 | Differences between PDO/PLLA/PCL threads, detailed cost information, and tips for choosing a clinic in Gangnam to avoid common pitfalls

To be honest, it took me almost three months to research South Korea’s thread lifting procedure. At first, I thought it was just about inserting a few threads, but later on I learned about the differences between various types of threads and the tricky pricing practices of some clinics in Gangnam. If I tell you the whole process in detail, you’ll know how to make the right choice after listening.

What is thread lifting? Let’s first understand how it works.

Thread Lift, also known as “silifting” in Korean, essentially involves inserting specially designed threads into the deeper layers of the skin. These threads have small hooks that help lift sagging tissues upward, while simultaneously stimulating the production of Collagen. It sounds simple, but the success of the procedure depends on several factors: the type of thread used, the depth at which the threads are inserted, and the skill of the practitioner. Each of these elements can significantly affect the final outcome.

The first mistake I made: I assumed that all types of “thread implants” were the same. When I went for a consultation, I didn’t understand the difference between “PDO threads,” “PLLA threads,” and “PCL threads,” so I simply let the doctor decide for me. Only later did I discover that the duration of effect of these three types of threads differed by more than twice.

Complete disassembly of the three mainstream types of wires

PDO threads (polyethylene terephthalate)

The most commonly used material for thread embedding in the current market is absorbable and decomposes in about 6 months. Its advantages include mature technology, extensive experience among doctors performing the procedure, and relatively affordable prices; however, the effect lasts for only a short time, usually around 1 year, after which re-treatment is required. It is suitable for those trying this procedure for the first time as a way to test their reaction to thread embedding.

PLLA thread (polylactic acid)

I think this is better than PDO. Its degradation time is longer, allowing it to continuously stimulate the production of Collagen in the body for up to 18 months. The effects are not immediate, but once they become visible, the results look more natural and less noticeable as if any treatment has been done. Many doctors in Gangnam are currently recommending this product, and its price is also 30% to 50% higher than that of PDO.

PCL thread (polycaprolactone)

The type of thread with the longest duration of effect takes 2 to 3 years to degrade in the body, which means it also takes a longer time to stimulate collagen production. Currently, this is considered the “most durable” option, but it also comes at the highest cost. If this is your first time undergoing thread embedding, I would not recommend choosing PCL right away – in case the results are not satisfactory or there is slight asymmetry, you will have to wait for a very long time.

In 2026, the costs of thread lifting procedures in South Korea will be made publicly available.

I will present the information directly in a table. This data is compiled based on my actual inquiries at several clinics in Gangnam District and is provided for reference only:

Types of wires	Average cost per item	Standard number of fillers for the entire face	Estimated cost for a full face treatment	Effect maintenance
PDO monofilament/double-barbed threads	₩30,000 – 60,000	20 to 30 strands	₩600,000 – 1,500,000	6 to 12 months
PLLA spiral/sawtooth thread	₩60,000 – 100,000	15 to 25 hairs	₩1,200,000 – 2,500,000	12 to 18 months
PCL long-lasting threads	₩80,000 – 150,000	10 to 20 strands	₩1,500,000 – 3,000,000	18 to 36 months
Wire + filler hybrid solution	—	As required	₩2,000,000 – 5,000,000	Depending on the specific project

Without further ado, the key point is this: the difference in prices is not about whether something is expensive or cheap, but rather about the number of threads used. Some clinics claim “a full-face thread lift for ¥9,800,000,” but upon closer inquiry, you will find that it actually involves 12 PDO threads; another clinic may quote ¥1,180,000 for 25 PLLA threads. The number of threads used makes a huge difference in the results obtained.

The areas where thread lifting yields the best results VS. the pitfalls to avoid

Areas where the effects are particularly noticeable include sagging cheeks, excess fat around the mouth, blurred jawlines, and early signs of neck wrinkles. In these areas, the skin is sufficiently loose, allowing the surgical threads to effectively “grab” the underlying tissues and lift them upwards, resulting in visible improvements.

Here is what I suggest you not to expect too much: if your problem is heavy eyelids, deep wrinkles on the Forehead, or severe skin laxity (obvious sagging), the results achieved solely through thread lifting will be limited. In such cases, it may be necessary to combine it with other treatments or consider surgery. This is the consensus I reached after consulting four different clinics.

Postoperative recovery – to be honest, this is the most crucial stage.

The first week after the thread embedding procedure is the most difficult period. The main reactions include:

Irregular skin surface: Especially in the case of serrated lines, it is normal to experience mild “orange peel” texture or irregularities 1-2 weeks after the procedure. These will smooth out once the implant materials have settled. However, if you need to attend an important event immediately after the surgery, you must take this into account when planning your schedule.

Tightness and mild swelling of the face: Most of these symptoms will subside within about 1 week. A mistake I made was trying to apply makeup and go out on the third day after the procedure; the makeup simply wouldn’t fit well on my face. It is recommended to wait at least 5 days after the surgery for your skin to fully recover.

Pulling sensation: Especially when opening the mouth or smiling, this sensation may last for 2 to 4 weeks. After the sutures and tissues have fused together, it will no longer be noticeable.

Things to avoid: Within 1 month after the procedure, refrain from vigorously massaging the face (including when washing it); do not undergo any thermal treatments such as laser or HIFU treatments; avoid steaming the face; and try to prevent prolonged friction from wearing a mask (if you must wear one, choose the thinnest and lightest model possible).

How to choose a clinic in Gangnam? I really asked around everywhere.

I have been asked this question many times. To put it simply, when choosing a clinic for thread lifting, what matters most is not the brand, but the doctor performing the procedure. Even at the same clinic, the results achieved by experienced doctors and newly recruited doctors can differ significantly.

My suggestion is:

1. When seeking consultation, request to see genuine before-and-after photos: not retouched images, but follow-up photos with marked time points. It is best to see photos taken 3 months and 6 months later to assess the actual duration of the results achieved by the treatment.

2. Make sure to clarify the qualifications of the doctor performing the procedure: Whether it will be done by the doctor personally, or whether an assistant or nurse will perform the thread implantation. If the technique used for thread implantation is inadequate, resulting in uneven distribution of the threads or incorrect depths, not only will the results be poor, but it may also lead to asymmetrical outcomes.

3. Clearly inquire about the after-sales service and repair policies: Are there any free root repairs available? If the results disappear after just three months, does the clinic have any solutions to this issue? This is a question that can effectively reflect the credibility of a clinic.

4. Don’t let “package deals” confuse you: Many clinics offer thread lifting combined with other treatments in what are called “anti-aging facial packages.” On the surface, these deals seem very cost-effective, but they may include procedures that you actually don’t need at all. Before proceeding, carefully consider what your main needs are.

Which is the best choice: thread lifting, HIFU, or Thermage?

This is another frequently asked question, so I will explain it briefly:

The advantages of thread lifting are that it provides immediate and noticeable tightening effects, has a short recovery period, and can target specific areas precisely; however, the effects are limited in duration, and regular follow-up treatments are required.

The HIFU acts on the fascia layer, providing a Lifting effect that is deeper and more lasting than that achieved by thread lifting. However, the postoperative recovery period is accompanied by greater discomfort, and the cost is also relatively higher.

Thermage focuses on skin tightening and collagen proliferation, resulting in more noticeable improvements in skin texture; however, its lifting effect is not as direct as that of thread lifting.

If I were to make the choice myself: for those in their 30s with mild skin laxity, I would recommend trying thread lifting first; for those over 40 years old with obvious sagging, it is advisable to consider HIFU or Thermage in combination with thread lifting; if the skin laxity is already very severe, to be honest, surgical facelifts are the most reliable option. Please don’t have overly high expectations for non-surgical treatments in this case.

Finally, one last thing…

Thread lift is not a one-time solution that provides permanent results; rather, it is more like a habit of regular maintenance. If you consider it as a substitute for facelift surgery, you are likely to be disappointed. However, if you view it as a tool to help slow down the signs of aging and maintain your skin regularly, and if you work closely with your clinic and doctor for follow-up care, the results will indeed be quite satisfactory.

Before going to South Korea for the procedure, read this article from beginning to end so that you won’t be confused during the consultation.