Quick answer:
Thread lifting in Busan uses absorbable threads placed under the skin to reposition mild sagging and stimulate collagen. Smooth PDO threads mainly improve skin quality, while barbed cog threads physically lift tissue. Swelling and tenderness usually settle within one to two weeks, and lifting effects commonly last around six to eighteen months.
How Thread Lifts Work
A thread lift involves inserting fine medical threads under the skin through small entry points, usually with a needle or blunt cannula. Depending on their design, threads either anchor and reposition tissue, or create a scaffold that triggers the body's healing response and new collagen. The threads gradually dissolve over months, while collagen formed around them can help support the skin for some time afterward.
Most threads used in Korea are made from polydioxanone (PDO), a material long used in surgical sutures. Others are made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) or polycaprolactone (PCL), which tend to dissolve more slowly. Threads are regulated as medical devices, so ask whether the threads used are approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) and note the brand and type on your quote.
PDO Smooth Threads vs Cog Threads
Smooth (mono) and screw threads
These are fine threads without barbs, inserted in a mesh pattern. They do not lift tissue significantly. Instead, they aim to improve firmness, fine lines and texture through collagen stimulation. Screw threads are twisted around the needle to add a little more volume and support. They are often used for crepey skin on the cheeks, under the jaw or neck.
Cog (barbed) threads
Cog threads have small barbs or cones along their length that grip tissue. After insertion, the doctor gently pulls and repositions the tissue, then trims the ends. This gives a visible lift, most often along the jawline, jowls and midface. Various designs exist, such as molded, cut and bidirectional barbs, each with different holding strength. Cog threads involve more tissue manipulation, so downtime and risk of side effects are usually greater.
Who Is a Good Candidate
- Adults with mild to moderate sagging of the jowls, cheeks or jawline
- People with reasonable skin thickness who want a non-surgical option
- Those who understand that results are temporary and modest compared with surgery
Who should avoid or delay thread lifting
- People with heavy sagging or significant excess skin
- Those with very thin skin, where threads may be visible or palpable
- Anyone with active infection, skin disease or an autoimmune condition affecting healing
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those prone to keloids, or with bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use, without medical advice
Recovery Timeline
- Day 0 to 3:
swelling, tightness and tenderness are most noticeable. Bruising is common at entry points. Some people feel a pulling sensation when talking or eating.
- Day 3 to 7:
swelling decreases. Small dimples or puckers at the skin surface often begin to settle.
- Week 1 to 2:
most people look socially presentable. Mild tenderness on touch may continue.
- Week 2 to 4:
threads settle into position, and residual irregularities often smooth out.
- Month 1 to 3:
collagen stimulation continues, especially with PDO and slower-dissolving threads.
Recovery varies with the number and type of threads. Many doctors advise avoiding wide mouth opening, dental work, facial massage, strenuous exercise and saunas for a couple of weeks, and sleeping on your back for the first few nights.
How Long Results Last
Smooth threads typically produce subtle texture improvement that may last several months. Cog thread lifts often last around six to eighteen months, depending on thread material, design, skin quality, age and lifestyle. Threads cannot stop ongoing aging, and some people notice the lift relax sooner than expected.
Risks and Complications
- Bruising, swelling and tenderness
- Skin dimpling or puckering, usually temporary
- Asymmetry that may require adjustment
- Visible or palpable threads, or threads poking through the skin (extrusion)
- Infection, which may require antibiotics or thread removal
- Rarely, nerve irritation, salivary gland injury or persistent pain
Contact the clinic promptly if you have increasing pain, redness, warmth, discharge or fever.
Cost Factors
Thread lifts are usually priced by the number and type of threads. Cog threads cost more than smooth threads, and brand matters. Ask how many threads are planned for each side, the thread type and brand, whether local anesthesia and follow-up are included, and whether there are fees for adjustments. A written itemized quote avoids surprises.
Planning a Thread Lift as a Visitor
Because swelling and dimpling may be visible for a week or more, thread lifts suit longer stays better than quick weekend trips. Allow at least a week between treatment and your flight, and schedule a follow-up visit before departure. If you are combining it with sightseeing, low-key activities such as the Busan Citizens Park walk near Seomyeon are easier on the face than long boat tours or hiking in strong wind and sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a thread lift painful?
Local anesthesia is used, so most people feel pressure and pulling rather than sharp pain. Soreness afterward is common for several days.
Can threads be removed?
Sometimes, especially soon after placement, but removal can be difficult once tissue has grown around them.
Can I combine threads with filler or HIFU?
Combination plans are common, but timing matters. Many doctors do energy treatments before threads or wait several weeks afterward.
Key Takeaways
- Smooth PDO threads mainly improve skin quality; cog threads provide mechanical lift.
- Recovery usually takes one to two weeks, with some tenderness lasting longer.
- Results are temporary, commonly six to eighteen months for cog threads.
- Confirm MFDS-approved threads and get a quote listing thread type and number.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general education only and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Treatment suitability, results and risks vary by individual. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
