Home / Treatments / Dermatology / Thread Lift (PDO Threads)

Lifting · 실리프팅

Thread Lift in Apgujeong

Dissolvable PDO threads with small barbs placed under the skin to lift sagging cheeks and jowls, with results that last around a year.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 실리프팅
  • Procedure time: 30-60 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local anesthetic, sometimes with sedation
  • Sessions: 1 session
  • Downtime: Swelling and tightness 3-7 days; small dimples may take 1-2 weeks to settle
  • Results: Immediate lift that settles over 2-4 weeks
  • Lasts: About 6-12 months, sometimes longer
  • Typical price: ₩560,000–₩720,000 (per 8-12 PDO cog threads, VAT excluded)

What is Thread Lift (PDO Threads)?

A thread lift uses absorbable threads, most often PDO (polydioxanone), inserted under the skin through a few small entry points. Cog threads have tiny barbs that grip tissue so it can be pulled up and held.

In Gangnam, common products include Korean cog threads such as MINT (HansBiomed) and others sold by clinic name. Smooth 'mono' threads are also used in large numbers for skin tightening rather than lift.

How it works

After local anesthetic, the doctor passes each thread through a cannula along a planned vector, then pulls the skin up and trims the end. The barbs hold the lifted position right away.

PDO dissolves in about 6 months, and the collagen formed around the thread helps keep some lift after that.

Who it suits

  • Mild to moderate jowls
  • Sagging mid-cheek
  • Soft jawline
  • People not ready for a facelift

Who should skip it or wait

  • Heavy sagging or lots of loose skin
  • Very thin face with little fat
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Active skin infection

Side effects and risks

  • Dimpling or puckering
  • Visible or palpable thread
  • Asymmetry
  • Infection
  • Pain when opening the mouth wide

Aftercare

  • Avoid wide mouth opening and hard chewing for 1-2 weeks
  • Sleep on your back for a week
  • No facial massage or dental work for 2-4 weeks
  • Skip sauna and exercise for a week

Planning around your trip

Leave 5-7 days before flying home so the doctor can fix any dimples or a thread end that pokes out.

Dermatology clinics near Apgujeong

  • ID Hospital (아이디병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Wooridul Hospital (우리들병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 6 min walk from Cheongdam Station
  • CHAUM Clinic ((의)성광의료재단 차움의원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 9 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station
  • Nanoori Hospital (나누리병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 12 min walk from Hakdong Station
  • VIEVIS NAMUH Hospital (비에비스나무병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Eonju Station
  • Sangsang Clinic (상상의원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Doctors Dermatology Clinic (닥터스피부과의원)
    Dermatology, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station
  • Teunteun Hospital (튼튼병원)
    Aesthetic Clinic, 5 min walk from Cheongdam Station

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Thread Lift (PDO Threads) price in Apgujeong

₩560,000–₩720,000
per 8-12 PDO cog threads, VAT excluded

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Reberry Clinic Gangnam thread lift price page. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full Thread Lift (PDO Threads) price breakdown →

Thread Lift (PDO Threads) questions

How many threads do I need?

A typical lower-face lift uses 8-12 cog threads. Mono threads for skin tightening are used in larger numbers, often 20-30 or more.

Will I see the thread under my skin?

In thin skin, a thread can sometimes be felt or seen. A doctor can remove or trim it if it causes a problem.

Thread lift or HIFU?

HIFU tightens without incisions or recovery. Threads give a stronger mechanical lift but carry more downtime and risk.

Can I go to the dentist after a thread lift?

Wait at least 2-4 weeks, since opening wide can pull threads loose.

How long before the dimples go away?

Most small dimples settle in 1-2 weeks. If they persist, see the doctor.

Does Thread Lift (PDO Threads) hurt?

Local anesthesia makes the procedure tolerable. Expect soreness and tightness for several days.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.