Thread Lift

How it works

Threads, often made of a dissolvable material, are inserted through tiny entry points into the layer below the skin. Some have barbs or cogs that hold tissue, and some are smooth to support skin quality. Over months the threads dissolve, while the body forms new tissue around them. The lifting effect may fade as that happens, and results vary by person.

Who it may suit

• Mild to moderate looseness in the midface or jawline
• People who want something less invasive than surgery
• Those who can accept several days of swelling or bruising
• Anyone who understands that effects are not lasting

The treatment day

1. Consultation. The doctor examines your face and explains thread types. Ask for the plan, number of threads and entry points.
2. Anesthesia. Local anesthetic is injected. Tell the doctor about any past reactions to numbing medicine.
3. Placement. Threads are inserted and positioned. You may feel pressure or tugging.
4. Aftercare briefing. You get rules for sleeping, chewing and facial movement. Ask for a written copy in English.

Aftercare

• Sleep on your back with your head slightly raised for the period advised
• Avoid big mouth movements, such as wide yawning, and heavy chewing as directed
• Skip facial massage, dental work and intense exercise for the time the doctor specifies
• Use cold packs only if the doctor approves them
• Seek care promptly for fever, spreading redness, severe pain or a thread poking out

Things to know first

• Swelling, bruising, soreness and tightness are common
• Dimpling, asymmetry, a visible or palpable thread, infection and nerve irritation can occur
• Not advised in pregnancy, active infection or with some bleeding conditions
• Blood thinners and some supplements may raise bruising, so share a full list
• Flying soon after may be uncomfortable, so ask about timing

Talking through a thread lift in English

This is a procedure with entry points and anesthetic, so be exact about your history. Tell the doctor about blood thinners, fish oil, vitamin E, allergies to local anesthetics, keloid scarring and previous filler or threads. Bring dates in writing.

Ask what the threads are made of, how long they usually take to dissolve, how many will be placed and where. Ask what the plan is if one side looks uneven, and how the clinic handles revisions after you leave Seoul.

You may hear words such as cog, mono, entry point and vector. Ask for the aftercare rules in English and for a contact method that works in your time zone. Ask when you can safely fly.