In recent years, the popularity of “thread lifting Lifting” in South Korea’s medical aesthetics industry has been on the rise. Known as “the most effective non-surgical facelift option,” it has provided countless individuals who are hesitant due to concerns about surgical risks with a more gentle solution. But what exactly is thread lifting? What are the differences between MINT threads, COG threads, and PPDO threads? How long do the results last? This article, as the most comprehensive guide to thread lifting Lifting in 2026, will answer all these questions for you in one place.
What is Lifting through thread surgery?
Thread Lifting is a minimally invasive facial Lifting procedure that involves implanting absorbable threads made of special materials into the subcutaneous tissue. The barbs or hook structures on these threads immediately “grab” the loose tissues and pull them upward. At the same time, the implantation of these threads stimulates the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, promoting the production of new Collagen, thereby achieving a dual effect of “Lifting the contours and improving the skin quality”.
Compared with traditional facelift surgeries, the greatest advantages of thread lifting Lifting are as follows: it does not require general anesthesia, leaves no surgical incisions, has a short recovery period (usually 3 to 7 days), carries extremely low risks, and can improve facial sagging while preserving natural expressions, without leaving any surgical scars.
The therapeutic principle of Lifting through thread lifting surgery
The mechanism of action of Lifting through thread lifting surgery consists of two stages:
First phase: Immediate mechanical Lifting (0 – 4 weeks)
After the threads are implanted under the skin, the barbed or hooked structures on the threads grasp the surrounding tissue fibers, immediately producing a physical lifting effect. On the same day after the procedure, improvements in facial contours can be observed: the looseness of the face is reduced, the jawline becomes more defined, and the Nasolabial Fold Correction becomes less noticeable.
Phase 2: Biological Reactivation Effect (1–6 months)
During the process of degradation in the skin, the threads continuously stimulate the fibroblast cells in the surrounding tissues, promoting the synthesis and deposition of new Collagen. This means that even after the threads have completely degraded, the rejuvenating effects of Collagen continue to be present, helping to maintain the skin’s firmness and elasticity. This is precisely the “aftereffect” of thread lifting – many patients report that the results are even better 3 to 6 months after the procedure.
Comprehensive comparison of mainstream wires: MINT wire vs COG wire vs PPDO/PDO wire
| Characteristics | MINT Line | COG line (hook-shaped line) | PPDO/PDO monofilament threads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | PDO (Polydioxanone) | PDO/PPDO/PLLA | PPDO or PDO |
| Mitochondrial structure | 360-degree IPCHEA hook and prong design, patented technology | One-way or two-way barbed hooks | Smooth line (without barbs) |
| Lifting intensity | Strong, with excellent fixation capabilities | Moderate to strong, depending on the density of the hooks and needles | It is relatively weak and mainly relies on the stimulation of collagen. |
| Effect maintenance | 12 to 18 months | 9 to 12 months | 6 to 8 months |
| Applicable areas | Full facial contouring, especially suitable for the Apple Zone and jawline areas | Lifting in specific areas, including the Nasolabial Fold Correction and neck area | Supplement collagen and apply threads across the entire face |
| pain sensation | Moderate; surface anesthesia is required. | medium | low |
| Recovery time | 3-7 days (mild swelling/purple discoloration) | 3 to 5 days | 1-3 days |
| Market position in South Korea | The top choice for high-end mainstream consumers and celebrity internet influencers | Widely used and cost-effective | It is often used in combination with other types of wires. |
| Reference price (South Korea) | 1.5 to 3 million Korean won (approximately 8,000 to 16,000 yuan) | 800,000 to 1.5 million Korean won (approximately 4,200 to 8,000 yuan) | 300,000 to 800,000 Korean won (approximately 1,600 to 4,200 yuan) |
Why has the MINT line become the preferred choice for South Korean celebrities?
The MINT thread was developed by the South Korean company Hans Biomed and is currently one of the most recognized brands in the IPCHEA thread lifting market in South Korea. It has also been approved by regulatory authorities in several countries. The key difference lies in its 360-degree IPCHEA hook-and-bar design: while traditional threads have hooks arranged on one or both sides, the MINT thread’s hooks are evenly distributed over 360 degrees, resulting in greater stability, more lasting lifting effects, and a reduced risk of “local loosening”.
Many female celebrities over 40 years old in South Korea, as well as well-known female figures, are reportedly using MINT threads on a long-term basis to maintain the youthfulness of their faces in private. They have thus become the “face of recommendation” in the field of thread lifting.
PLLA thread (DongAn Center Introduction): A more durable and premium option
In addition to the PDO/PPDO series, another material that has received attention in recent years is PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) threads. The degradation rate of PLLA threads is slower than that of PDO; their support effect can last for 18 to 24 months, and they are also more effective in promoting collagen regeneration. However, their downside is their higher cost, as well as a longer period of tissue adaptation in the early stages after implantation. They are suitable for facial shapes with thicker fat layers that require strong support at deeper levels.
Who is suitable for Lifting with thread lifting?
- For individuals aged 30 to 55 with mild to moderate facial relaxation: sagging of the Apple Zone, deepening of the Nasolabial Fold Correction, and blurred jawlines
- For those with a Double Chin or a blurred facial contour: Thread lifting can quickly tighten the lower jaw area.
- For those who do not want to undergo surgery but hope to achieve better results: no incisions required, and normal work can be resumed after the procedure.
- For those seeking to combine Lifting with photoelectric anti-aging treatments: Thread lifting combined with Thermage/Hyperthermage offers “vertical Lifting + horizontal tightening” for comprehensive anti-aging effects.
- For the elderly with mild skin laxity aged 28–40 who are concerned about undergoing surgery: preventive use can help slow down the process of aging.
Who is not suitable for Lifting with thread surgery?
- For those taking anticoagulant medications such as aspirin: discontinue the medication for at least 1-2 weeks before the procedure; a medical evaluation is required.
- Those with autoimmune diseases, active skin infections, or unhealed wounds
- For those with a confirmed history of allergy to the material of the wire
- Severe facial sagging (moderate to severe cases): Simple thread lifting is unlikely to achieve the desired results; it is recommended to consider surgical Lifting.
- Pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding
How much does Lifting using thread lifting techniques cost in South Korea?
| Types of wires | South Korea market price (Korean won) | Conversion to RMB (approximate) | Effect maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPDO smoothing lines (auxiliary) | 300,000 to 800,000 Korean won | Approximately 1,600 to 4,200 yuan | 6 to 8 months |
| COG hook-shaped lines (local area) | 800,000 to 1.5 million Korean won | Approximately 4,200 to 8,000 yuan | 9 to 12 months |
| MINT Secret Line (for the entire face) | 1.5 to 3 million Korean won | Approximately 8,000 to 16,000 yuan | 12 to 18 months |
| PLLA DongAn Center Introduction (High-end) | 2 million to 4 million Korean won | Approximately RMB 10,600 to RMB 21,200 | 18 to 24 months |
※ In South Korea, the cost of thread lifting procedures is usually 30-50% lower than that in China for similar techniques. Moreover, it is guaranteed that genuine thread materials are used, and the procedures are performed by qualified Dermatology doctors. Therefore, it represents one of the most cost-effective options for those considering medical beauty treatments in South Korea.
Precautions after Lifting surgery
- Within 1 week after the procedure: Avoid using exfoliating or scrubbing skincare products; gently wash your face with warm water.
- Within 1 week after the procedure: Quitting smoking and drinking can help promote wound healing.
- Within 2 weeks after the procedure: Avoid saunas, hot baths, and strenuous exercise.
- Within 1 month after the procedure: Avoid applying excessive pressure or pulling on the treated area (for example, avoid sleeping on your stomach).
- Throughout the entire process: it is essential to apply strict sun protection measures (SPF50+) to prevent pigmentation.
- Possible normal reactions: mild swelling, bruising, or a sense of asymmetry after the procedure – these usually subside on their own within 2 weeks.
Thread lift Lifting vs Thermage vs HIFU – How to choose?
| Comparison dimensions | Lifting through thread lifting | Thermage | HIFU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary function | Physical lifting + collagen regeneration | Radiofrequency heating helps to reorganize collagen and tighten the skin. | Ultrasound for deep fascia lifting |
| Immediate results | Very obvious (visible immediately after the procedure) | Mild effects (become apparent gradually 2 to 6 months later) | Mild effects (become apparent gradually 3 to 6 months later) |
| pain sensation | Moderate (local anesthesia) | Medium to low level (comfort pulse technology) | Moderate to severe (pain is more noticeable in some individuals) |
| Recovery period | 3 to 7 days | Almost none | Almost none |
| Long-lasting effects | 12 to 24 months | 12 to 18 months | 12 to 18 months |
| Most suitable for | For mild to moderate sagging, Lifting is desired immediately. | The entire face appears more firm, and fine lines are reduced. | Moderate to severe sagging; deep Lifting |
| South Korea prices | 1.5 to 3 million Korean won | 450,000 to 800,000 Korean won | 380,000 to 700,000 Korean won |
Combined recommendation: The three-in-one treatment of thread lifting (physical lifting), Thermage (radiofrequency tightening), and hyaluronic acid injections (deep moisturization) is the “comprehensive anti-aging package” most highly recommended by top Dermatology clinics in South Korea. These treatments complement each other, and their effects accumulate, providing results that can last for 18 to 24 months.
When undergoing Lifting procedures in South Korea, how can one choose a reliable clinic?
- Verify the doctor’s qualifications: It is essential to choose a doctor who holds a license as a “Dermatology Specialist” or “Plastic Surgeon” in South Korea – this is the most important guarantee of safety.
- Verify the authenticity of the surgical threads: Doctors are required to present the packaging and batch numbers of the surgical threads to confirm that they are genuine products, such as MINT or Silhouette Soft certified threads.
- Avoid the trap of “internet celebrity packages”: Ultra-low-priced thread lifting packages (costing less than 500,000 Korean won for the entire face) often indicate questionable quality of the threads used or the qualifications of the doctors performing the procedure.
- Choose a clinic that provides services in Chinese: This will ensure smooth communication before and after the procedure, preventing any misunderstandings or treatment errors due to language barriers.
- Make appointments through legitimate platforms such as BeautsGO: These platforms have conducted background checks on the clinics they partner with, thereby reducing the risk of encountering problematic services.
In summary
South Korea’s thread lifting Lifting techniques represent one of the most effective, fastest-to-recover, and cost-effective solutions in the field of non-surgical anti-aging treatments today. From PPDO smooth threads to MINT threads, to the high-end PLLA DongAn Center Introduction threads, different materials are suitable for different applications. The key lies in choosing the right material, the right doctor, and the right clinic.
If you are planning to undergo Lifting in Korea, it is recommended that you book a reliable clinic in advance through the BeautsGO platform. This will allow you to receive one-on-one guidance in Chinese, and professional doctors can recommend the most suitable Lifting treatment plan based on the condition of your face.