To be honest, I always thought that only middle-aged and elderly people would consider having “facial lifting.” It wasn’t until I turned 35 that I noticed my cheeks becoming increasingly loose and the contours of my chin starting to fade, that I began to seriously research this topic.
I spent over a month doing research, asked several friends who had gone to South Korea for cosmetic procedures, and also visited three clinics in Seoul for consultations. I found that there are actually many pitfalls in this industry. The names used by these clinics are more or less the same, but the actual results, costs, and recovery times vary greatly. If you don’t clarify these details before booking a surgery, you might end up spending a lot of money without getting the results you expected.
Therefore, in this article, I would like to clearly explain several common types of facelift procedures: incisional facelift (traditional surgery), thread lift, HIFU, and the currently very popular Titanium Lifting in South Korea. I have listed the appropriate indications for each procedure, approximate costs, and recovery times below.
First, it is necessary to understand at which level the “tissue relaxation” occurs in order to choose the right approach.
Clinics tend to use terms like “deep tightening,” “SMAS layer,” and “Collagen proliferation” when explaining facelift procedures. To be honest, I didn’t understand anything after hearing them for the first time. It wasn’t until I asked the doctor to explain it in a more straightforward way that I really grasped the key points.
Skin laxity can be categorized into three layers: the outermost layer of the skin, the intermediate fascia layer (also known as the SMAS layer), and the deepest fat and ligament layer. Different types of facelift procedures target different layers, which directly affects the duration of the results.
- Mild sagging (in the early 30s): In this case, the main issue is the sagging of the skin layers; HIFU or thread lifting is usually sufficient.
- Moderate relaxation (around the age of 40): The SMAS layer has begun to relax, making the effects of thread lifting limited; surgical intervention or more intensive energy therapies should be considered.
- Severe sagging (for individuals over 50 years old with significant drooping): In such cases, only surgical incisions can achieve noticeable improvement.
Therefore, it’s not enough to simply choose a certain type of procedure just because you want to have facial lifting. It’s essential to let a doctor assess the extent of your skin laxity first, so as to avoid wasting money on unnecessary treatments.
A comparative overview of the four mainstream methods
The table below is compiled based on multiple consultations by me; it does not reflect the claims made by clinic marketing departments, but rather attempts to reflect the actual situation as closely as possible.
| Project | Incisional facelift (surgery) | Thread lift | HIFU | Titanium Lifting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levels of effect | SMAS layer + skin layer | Skin layer ~ superficial fascia | SMAS layer (with a depth of 4.5 mm) | Dermis to subcutaneous layer |
| Duration of effects | 5 to 10 years | 1 to 2 years | 1 to 2 years | 1 to 1.5 years |
| Recovery period | 2 to 4 weeks | 3 to 7 days | There is virtually no recovery period. | 1 to 3 days |
| Reference costs in South Korea | 3.5 to 7 million Korean won | 800,000 to 2 million Korean won | 600,000 to 1.8 million Korean won | 800,000 to 2 million Korean won |
| pain sensation | General anesthesia; pain persists for 3 to 5 days after the surgery. | A slight stinging sensation | During the treatment, there is a burning sensation. | Mild discomfort |
| Suitable for various ethnic groups | Severe sagging in individuals over 50 years of age | Moderate to severe cases in individuals aged 30 to 45 | For those aged 30 to 50 who wish to avoid surgery | People aged 30 to 45 with sensitive skin |
| Main Risks | Scars, nerve damage (low probability) | The wire is displaced, and the surface is uneven. | Burns, uneven results | The effects are mild, and multiple treatment sessions are required. |
Are you unsure which option is right for you? First, consult Dr. BAROG for an assessment.
Incisional facelift: The results are the most long-lasting, but not everyone needs this procedure.
Incision and lifting are truly what one would call “surgery” – small incisions are made in front of and behind the ear, the skin and SMAS fascia are directly tightened, excess skin is removed, and then the wounds are closed. The results are the most lasting, but the recovery period is also the longest.
When I sought consultation, a clinic in Cheongdam-dong was very straightforward: “Given your current condition, having surgery would be a bit of a waste; fillers or ultrasound treatments would be sufficient. You can consider surgery when you turn fifty.” I actually appreciated this attitude, because not every doctor is willing to advise you not to spend a lot of money.
The cost of facelift surgery in South Korea ranges from 3.5 million to 7 million South Korean won (equivalent to approximately 80,000 to 160,000 Taiwan dollars), and the fees can vary significantly depending on the quality of the clinic and the extent of the surgery. It is important to note that within two weeks after the procedure, the face will become noticeably swollen, making it almost impossible to go out in public. If you are considering having the surgery during a short trip, it is essential to ensure that you have sufficient time to recover.
Thread lift: It requires the lowest investment, but the results can vary greatly.
Thread lifting has become a very popular option in recent years because it does not require surgery, has a quick recovery time, and is relatively affordable. But to be honest, I also consider it to be one of the procedures that involves the most potential pitfalls.
Why is it said that there are many pitfalls in this industry? The effectiveness of thread lifting highly depends on the quality of the threads used and the skills of the surgeon. A friend of mine went to a clinic on Shouwei Road where the discounts were very substantial; the procedure cost significantly less at that time. However, three months later, one side of her face began to show obvious indentations, and she had to spend extra money to correct the issue.
Currently, common thread brands in South Korea include MINT thread, Silhouette thread, and PDO thread. Different brands have varying absorption rates and the duration of their effects. PDO thread lasts for approximately 1 year, while MINT thread can last from 1.5 to 2 years. It is recommended to inquire clearly about the type of thread used and the doctor’s experience in performing this procedure during the consultation.
In terms of costs, the cost of thread lifting in South Korea ranges from 800,000 to 2 million South Korean won, and this varies significantly depending on the number of threads used and the area treated. Some clinics may offer a “basic package” that only includes 30 threads, resulting in very limited effects; it is therefore recommended to clarify exactly how many threads are included before comparing prices.
HIFU (Ultherapy): The preferred non-invasive treatment option, but it can be quite painful.
HIFU was the option I ultimately chose. It uses high-intensity focused ultrasound to directly target the SMAS layer, promoting the production of Collagen and thus achieving a tightening effect. The greatest advantage of this procedure is that it is completely non-invasive; you can go back to your daily activities immediately after the treatment, with no significant recovery period required.
But there is one thing I must make clear: HIFU is truly uncomfortable, and in some areas, it can be quite painful, especially in the regions where the jawbones are more prominent. You can request the use of a local anesthetic ointment before the treatment to reduce discomfort.
Another aspect that requires special attention is the model of the device. Currently, there is a wide variety of HIFU devices on the market, and the effects of original Ultherapy devices, Doublo devices, and SMAS devices can vary significantly. In South Korea, more established clinics generally use original Ultherapy devices or certified equipment; it is important to be cautious about cheaper options, as they may be counterfeit devices.
For reference, the cost of a full-face Ultherapy treatment in South Korea ranges from 1 million to 1.8 million Korean won; adding the neck area increases the cost by an additional 400,000 to 600,000 Korean won.
Titanium Lifting: BAROG’s unique treatment program
I inquired in great detail about this during my consultation with BAROG, because they particularly promote this service.
Titanium Lifting uses near-infrared light (with a wavelength of 1100nm) to act on the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. By generating heat, it causes Collagen to contract and promotes new cell growth. Its advantage lies in the relatively comfortable treatment process (compared to ultrasound), making it more suitable for people with thinner or more sensitive skin.
Compared to ultrasound, its effects are slightly weaker in terms of “lifting,” but it has a good reputation for “improving the firmness of the skin.” It is suitable for those who do not desire too drastic results and prefer a more “maintaining” rather than “transforming” approach.
The cost ranges from approximately 800,000 to 2 million Korean won. Combining this treatment with HIFU or thread lifting can achieve even better results.
Would you like to learn more about BAROG’s Titanium Lifting or HIFU treatments?
Pits I encountered during my consultations
Trick 1: Being lured in by “free consultations”
Some clinics
start using the tactic of claiming “special discounts for reservations made today” on the same day of the consultation. This is especially common at clinics near Myeongdong or Hongdae that target tourists. It is recommended not to make a decision on the same day of the consultation; instead, consult at least two different clinics before making a comparison.
Pitfall 2: Failing to clarify the number of threads used
As mentioned earlier, there is a significant difference in the “approaches” used for thread embedding treatments. Some clinics claim that a “full-face thread embedding procedure costs 800,000 Korean won,” but in reality, only 20 threads are used, resulting in no noticeable change to the chin contour at all. For a standard full-face treatment, it is essential to inquire in detail about the exact number of threads involved and which areas will be targeted.
Pitfall 3: Neglected postoperative care
Especi
ally after undergoing incisional surgeries or thread lifting procedures, it is essential to avoid chewing forcefully, refrain from massaging the face, and refrain from any form of energy therapy (such as ultrasound or radiofrequency) in the short term. These instructions may be briefly mentioned during the procedure, but you must remember them once you return to your hotel.
Pitfall 4: Exaggerated expectations regardin
g results
Many clinics take before/after photos immediately after the swelling subsides. At that point, the results appear to be the most noticeable, but after three months, when the effects have stabilized, they may not be as prominent. When considering procedures like lifting treatments, it’s important to be realistic: the results of such treatments are meant to “improve” rather than “reverse” the aging process.
Consultation and recommendation process for facelift procedures in South Korea in 2026
If you plan to undergo facelift procedures in South Korea this year, it is recommended that you arrange your schedule in the following way:
- Pre-departure preparations: First, identify several reputable clinics in China (those in Cheongdam-dong and Gangnam District generally have a higher reputation) and list the specific questions you would like to ask.
- Consult at least two clinics: Do not rely on just one source of advice; the evaluations provided by different doctors can provide valuable insights for comparison.
- Be sure to clarify the details of the treatment plan: What type of equipment/wires will be used, how many wires will be inserted, what amount of energy will be applied during the procedure, and what post-treatment care is included.
- Verify the doctor’s qualifications: Check whether they are a specialist in Dermatology or Plastic Surgery, and ask how many years they have been practicing in this field.
- Do not make an impulsive purchase on the day of the consultation: Take some time to think it through, or consider another option before making a decision.
Finally, let’s talk about choosing a clinic.
In the end, I chose BAROG Dermatology for a combined treatment of HIFU and Titanium Lifting. The reason was that the doctor gave me very honest advice during the consultation process; they did not try to push unnecessary treatments on me. Moreover, both the information brochure and the post-treatment instructions were available in Chinese, which made communication much easier for me.
To be honest, when it comes to cosmetic surgery in South Korea, what really makes a difference isn’t which clinic offers the lowest price or the latest equipment, but rather whether you have chosen the right doctor. A doctor who is willing to tell you “you don’t need to have this procedure right now” is actually the one you can trust the most.
If you have any specific questions—for example, which treatment option is suitable for your situation or how to estimate the costs—you can directly schedule a consultation through the link below. I myself found BAROG in this way.
Book an appointment at BAROG Dermatology in South Korea – for HIFU, Titanium Lifting, and thread lift treatments.