Thread Lift Types in Korea: PDO, PLLA, and PCL Explained

Eugene Lee • November 2, 2025

Introduction

Thread lifting has become one of the most popular non-surgical treatments in Korea for achieving a youthful, lifted look without going under the knife. Known for its instant results and collagen-stimulating benefits, thread lifting is often called the “lunchtime facelift.”

But not all thread lifts are the same — Korea offers several types of threads, each with its own materials, longevity, and purpose. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right option for your skin type and desired results.

What Is a Thread Lift?

A thread lift involves inserting biodegradable threads under the skin using a fine needle or cannula. These threads lift sagging skin while stimulating collagen production as they dissolve over time. The result? Firmer, smoother, and tighter skin — all achieved in about an hour.

Most Korean clinics customize thread lifts by combining different thread materials and techniques for the face, neck, and jawline to achieve natural, balanced results.

Types of Threads Used in Korea

1. PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads

PDO is the classic and most widely used thread type in Korea. Originally developed for surgical sutures, PDO threads are safe, effective, and dissolve naturally within 6–12 months.

Benefits:

  • Lifts mild to moderate sagging skin
  • Improves skin texture and elasticity
  • Stimulates collagen and elastin production
  • Minimal downtime and affordable

Best for:
Those in their late 20s to 40s who want subtle tightening or to prevent early sagging. PDO is often used for V-line lifting, jawline contouring, and cheek tightening.

2. PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) Threads

PLLA is known for long-lasting collagen stimulation. It’s the same ingredient used in Sculptra, a well-known injectable collagen stimulator. These threads take longer to dissolve (around 18 months) and provide gradual volume and lifting.

Benefits:

  • Long-lasting collagen regeneration
  • Suitable for moderate skin laxity
  • Gradual natural lifting effect
  • Improves overall skin firmness and glow

Best for:
People seeking both lifting and subtle volumizing effects — especially in the mid-face, temples, and nasolabial folds.

3. PCL (Polycaprolactone) Threads

PCL is the newest generation of lifting thread, offering the longest-lasting results — up to 24 months or more. It provides both lifting power and deep collagen stimulation while maintaining flexibility under the skin.

Benefits:

  • Longest-lasting collagen stimulation
  • Suitable for deep or heavy sagging
  • Smoother texture, less risk of stiffness
  • Enhances skin quality over time

Best for:
Patients in their 40s–60s or those wanting a stronger, structural lift without fillers or surgery.

Thread Structure Types

Mono (Smooth) Threads

These are fine, smooth threads placed in a mesh pattern to firm the skin and enhance elasticity. Mono threads do not lift but tighten and rejuvenate.

Common uses: Neck tightening, under-eye wrinkles, forehead fine lines.

Cog or Barbed Threads

Cog threads have small barbs that grip the skin and physically lift tissue. They provide an immediate lifting effect and continue to improve firmness as collagen builds around them.

Common uses: Cheeks, jowls, jawline, and V-line lifting.

Screw or Spiral Threads

These threads are twisted or coiled, designed to restore mild volume and elasticity while improving skin density.

Common uses: Smile lines, nasolabial folds, and areas that need both volume and lift.

How Long Do Thread Lifts Last?

  • PDO threads: 6–12 months
  • PLLA threads: 12–18 months
  • PCL threads: 18–24 months

Collagen continues to regenerate even after the threads dissolve, meaning results can last longer with regular maintenance.

Choosing the Right Thread Type

Here’s how to decide which thread lift suits your goals:

  • For light tightening and prevention: PDO Mono Threads
  • For lifting sagging mid-face or jawline: PDO or PLLA Cog Threads
  • For long-lasting, deeper lift: PCL or combination thread treatments
  • For volume restoration: Screw or PLLA threads

Most Korean dermatologists recommend combining threads for the best outcome — for example, using barbed threads for lifting and smooth threads for tightening.

Aftercare Tips

  • Avoid facial massages, saunas, or intense exercise for one week.
  • Sleep on your back for a few days to prevent thread displacement.
  • Keep skin clean and hydrated; avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
  • Mild swelling or bruising is normal and fades in a few days.

Final Thoughts

Thread lifts in Korea have evolved from temporary fixes to long-lasting, collagen-boosting treatments that redefine the face naturally. Whether you’re in your 30s looking for prevention or your 50s aiming for rejuvenation, there’s a thread type and technique that can be tailored precisely to your skin’s needs.

Always consult a board-certified dermatologist experienced in lifting procedures — the choice of thread and injection technique is just as important as the material itself.

By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare Oligio vs Thermage in Korea and learn which RF lifting treatment offers the best results for skin tightening, collagen remodeling, and jawline definition.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare fat-dissolving injections and HIFU for double chin reduction in Korea. Learn which treatment is best for slimming, lifting, and jawline definition.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Learn the difference between Rejuran I and Rejuran HB and find out which Korean skin booster is best for under-eye rejuvenation, hydration, and full-face anti-aging.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
The double chin is one of the most common areas patients want to slim and tighten. In Korea, the two most popular non-surgical options are fat-dissolving injections and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound). While both treatments target the under-chin area, they work in completely different ways—and choosing the right one depends on whether your concern is fat, skin laxity, or both. This guide breaks down how each treatment works, who it’s best for, and how Korean clinics combine them for sharper, more defined jawlines. What Are Fat-Dissolving Injections? Fat-dissolving injections use compounds that break down submental fat. Korean clinics commonly use: Deoxycholic acid–based formulas Lipo-slim cocktails (Korean blended formulas) Customized fat-dissolving solutions How They Work The injected solution breaks down fat cells The body slowly eliminates them through metabolism Results appear gradually over several weeks Best For Double chin caused primarily by fat Soft, fuller under-chin profile Patients wanting slimming rather than lifting Beginners who prefer a simple, fast treatment What They Improve Submental fullness Under-chin heaviness Rounded jawlines Limitations Does not tighten skin Swelling lasts a few days Multiple sessions usually needed Injections = fat reduction, not lifting. What Is HIFU for Double Chin? HIFU treatments like Shurink, Ultherapy, Liftera use focused ultrasound energy to tighten the deeper layers of the skin and SMAS. How It Works Ultrasound energy contracts collagen The deep SMAS layer tightens Skin becomes firmer and more lifted Jawline definition improves Best For Mild to moderate skin laxity Early jowls Soft tissue descent around the chin Patients wanting lifting rather than slimming What It Improves Sagging skin under the chin Early jowl formation Lack of jawline contour Limitations Does not dissolve fat Results are lifting, not slimming Works best when some elasticity remains HIFU = lifting, not fat reduction. Injections vs HIFU: The Key Difference Fat-Dissolving Injections βœ” Reduce fat ✘ Do not tighten skin HIFU βœ” Tightens and lifts skin ✘ Does not dissolve fat Your best treatment depends on whether your double chin is caused by: Excess fat → Injections Sagging skin → HIFU Both → Combination therapy (most common in Korea) Who Should Choose Fat-Dissolving Injections? Choose injections if you have: Soft, pinchable fat under the chin No major skin laxity A rounder facial shape Desire for gradual contouring A preference for lower-cost treatment with minimal equipment They’re ideal for people in their 20s–40s with stable skin elasticity. Who Should Choose HIFU? Choose HIFU if you have: Mild to moderate sagging under the chin Weak jawline definition Early jowls Skin that feels loose or lacks firmness Minimal fat but visible heaviness HIFU is ideal for patients in their 30s–60s depending on skin quality. Combination Treatment: Korea’s Most Popular Approach Korean dermatologists often combine injections + HIFU for optimal results because: Injections remove fat volume HIFU tightens the skin envelope The jawline becomes more sculpted and lifted Results look more balanced and natural This is especially powerful for: Double chin + early jowls Under-chin fullness + loose skin Round face shapes wanting definition Patients preparing for thread lift Men seeking a sharper jawline The combination produces the V-line chin contour that Korean clinics are known for. How Many Sessions Do You Need? Fat-Dissolving Injections 2–4 sessions on average Results appear slowly over 4–6 weeks HIFU 1 session every 6–12 months Immediate tightening + continued lifting over 2–3 months Korean clinics often schedule both treatments in a coordinated plan. Which One Works Faster? HIFU Visible tightening immediately Best for quick lift Injections Swelling at first Fat reduction visible after 3–4 weeks If you need fast results, HIFU is usually preferred. Which One Lasts Longer? Fat-Dissolving Injections Fat cells removed permanently But weight gain can reverse results HIFU Lifting lasts 6–12 months Maintenance recommended once a year Double Chin Treatment in Korea: Final Recommendation Choose Injections if: Your main problem is fat You want a slimmer under-chin profile You want a non-device treatment Choose HIFU if: Your main problem is sagging skin You want a more defined jawline You want instant lifting Choose Both for: Fat + loose skin V-line contouring Best overall result Most Korean clinics favor the combination approach because it creates the sharpest, most balanced improvement.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare Rejuran, Juvelook, and Skinvive to find the best Korean skin booster for hydration, elasticity, regeneration, and overall skin quality.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare Exosome boosters and PRP for skin regeneration. Learn which treatment gives better collagen repair, glow, and elasticity.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare Rejuran, Juvelook, and fillers for under-eye rejuvenation in Korea. Learn which treatment is best for wrinkles, hollows, dark circles, and texture.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Explore the best under-eye treatments in Korea, including Rejuran, Juvelook, fillers, lasers, HIFU, exosomes, PRP, and surgery options for dark circles, wrinkles, and hollows.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare HIFU and RF lifting for sagging skin. Learn which treatment tightens deeper layers, improves texture, and delivers the best facial lifting results.
By Eugene Lee December 7, 2025
Compare Kybella vs Korean fat-dissolving injections. Learn differences in ingredients, swelling, cost, recovery, and results for chin and body slimming treatments.