PDO Thread Lifting in Korea
PDO thread lifting (polydioxanone thread lift) is a popular non-surgical lifting treatment in Korea used to lift and tighten sagging skin, reshape facial contours, and stimulate collagen for longer-term firmness. It’s widely chosen as a less invasive alternative to surgical facelift with minimal downtime and immediate visible results.
What Is PDO Thread Lifting?
PDO threads are absorbable sutures made from polydioxanone that are inserted under the skin to:
- Lift sagging tissue
- Anchor and support soft tissue
- Stimulate collagen production over time
Threads have tiny barbs or cog-like features that grip the tissue and gently pull it upward. As the threads gradually dissolve, they promote new collagen formation that helps maintain the lift and improve skin texture.
How PDO Thread Lifting Works
- Consultation & Design – A clinician assesses facial anatomy and aging patterns to plan thread placement.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia or numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort.
- Thread Insertion – Fine cannulas or needles place PDO threads into targeted layers.
- Immediate Lift – Skin is repositioned upward; minor adjustments refined.
- Collagen Remodelling – Over weeks to months, threads dissolve while stimulating collagen for firmer skin.
Common Treatment Areas
- Jawline and jowls
- Midface / cheeks
- Nasolabial folds
- Neck area
- Eyebrow region
- Lower face contours
Many clinics also use thread lifts to refine lower face sagging and define the jawline.
Types of Threads Used
PDO Threads
- Absorbable and widely used
- Dissolve over several months
- Stimulate collagen
Cog & Barbed Threads
- Provide stronger mechanical lift
- Suitable for moderate sagging
Premium Threads (PLLA / PCL)
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) or polycaprolactone (PCL) threads may last longer and promote more collagen
- Higher cost than basic PDO threads
How Long Does PDO Thread Lifting Last?
- Immediate lift is visible after the procedure
- Threads begin dissolving within 6–12 months for PDO
- Collagen stimulation continues after threads dissolve
- Many patients see effects for 9–18 months or longer depending on thread type and placement
Recovery and Results
- Most people return to normal activity within 1–2 days
- Mild swelling, bruising, or tightness may last a few days
- Combines well with other non-surgical treatments like energy devices or injectables for enhanced outcomes
PDO Thread Lifting Cost in Korea (Approximate)
Pricing varies widely depending on clinic location, thread type, number of threads, and treatment areas. Typical ranges include:
- Basic PDO thread lift (small area): ~ ₩700,000 – ₩1,500,000 (USD ~520–1,150)
- Standard full-face lift (PDO/PLLA threads): ~ ₩1,000,000 – ₩3,000,000 (USD ~750–2,300)
- Premium thread lift packages: ~ ₩2,000,000 – ₩4,000,000+ (USD ~1,500–3,000+)
More extensive areas (neck, multiple zones) or premium BI-directional threads can raise the total above these ranges.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Good candidates for PDO thread lifting generally include people with:
- Mild to moderate skin sagging
- Soft tissue descent in midface or jawline
- Early signs of aging without severe skin excess
- Desire for a natural lift with minimal downtime
Thread lifting is less ideal for very advanced laxity or excess skin, which might better respond to surgical lifting.
Choosing a Clinic in Korea
When selecting a clinic or injector for PDO thread lifting:
- Check board-certified surgeon or dermatologist experience
- Confirm thread brand and type
- Review before & after photos
- Ask for customized treatment design based on your facial structure
Korean clinics in neighborhoods like Gangnam, Apgujeong, and Myeongdong are known for high thread lift expertise and international patient services.











