Lifting · Doje Clinic, Sinsa-dong
Thread Lifting in Cheongdam, Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul Minimally Invasive Lift With Absorbable Threads
Thread Lifting in Gangnam, Seoul at Doje Clinic is a minimally invasive procedure that places absorbable PDO or PCL-type threads under the skin to reposition sagging cheeks and jowls and stimulate collagen. It usually takes about 30–60 minutes under local anaesthesia, with swelling or bruising for several days to two weeks. The price is confirmed at consultation. Ask in English on WhatsApp.
Quick answer
What Is Thread Lifting?
Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure in which fine, absorbable medical threads are inserted under the skin with a needle or cannula. Barbed or cogged threads hold sagging tissue in a lifted position, and as the threads gradually dissolve, the body builds collagen around them.
Common thread materials include PDO (polydioxanone), which dissolves over several months, and PCL (polycaprolactone)-type threads, which tend to last longer. There are no large incisions, but it is still a procedure: swelling, bruising, tightness and small skin dimples are possible in the first days.
Because threads physically reposition tissue, they can give a more noticeable lift than energy devices for moderate sagging. Many patients later maintain the result with devices such as Ultherapy. The doctor will tell you honestly whether threads, a device or surgery suits you best.
- Treats
- Sagging cheeks, jowls, marionette area, jawline definition
- Performed by
- Licensed physicians at Doje Clinic
- Materials
- Absorbable PDO or PCL-type threads
- Anaesthesia
- Local anaesthesia; additional pain-reduction options available
- Procedure time
- About 30–60 minutes
- Downtime
- Swelling, bruising or tightness for several days to about 2 weeks
- Results
- Some lift immediately; collagen support builds over 1–3 months
- Price
- Confirmed after your consultation – see all prices
Compare
Thread Lifting vs Energy-Based Lifting
Threads and devices work differently and are often used together.
| Feature | Thread lifting | Ultrasound / RF devices |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Threads reposition tissue mechanically | Heat stimulates collagen remodelling |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (needle or cannula) | Non-invasive |
| Downtime | Several days to about 2 weeks | Usually none |
| Best for | Moderate sagging, jowls | Mild laxity, firmness, maintenance |
Is it right for you?
Who Is Thread Lifting Right For?
Adults with mild to moderate sagging who want more lift than devices give, but are not ready for a surgical facelift.
Thread lifting is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active skin infection in the area, uncontrolled diabetes, bleeding disorders, or a tendency to keloid scarring. Tell the doctor about blood thinners, supplements, autoimmune conditions and previous threads or fillers. Very heavy sagging may be better treated surgically.
- Cheeks that have dropped towards the jaw
- Visible jowls or marionette shadows
- A jawline that has lost definition
- Wanting more lift than devices alone give
- Preferring to avoid a surgical facelift
- Able to stay in Seoul a few extra days
Your visit
What to Expect During a Thread Lift
Plan Your Dates
Message us on WhatsApp in English with photos and travel dates. Allow recovery time before flying or events.
Doctor Design
The doctor examines sagging vectors, selects the thread type and number, and confirms the price.
Procedure
After cleansing and local anaesthesia, threads are inserted through small entry points along planned lines. It takes about 30–60 minutes.
Recovery Check
You go home the same day with aftercare instructions. Send photos on WhatsApp; a check-up before you fly is recommended.
Results timeline
Thread Lifting Recovery and Results
Plan thread lifting early in your stay so you can be checked before flying home.
Swelling, tightness and possible bruising; some lift is visible.
Swelling and bruising settle; any small dimples usually smooth out.
Collagen forms around the threads and the result looks more natural.
Threads dissolve gradually; duration varies by thread type and individual.
Why Doje Clinic
Why Choose Doje Clinic for Thread Lifting in Seoul?
1:1 Private Care
An in-depth one-to-one consultation with the Representative Director before any treatment is planned.
Doctor-Performed
Every treatment is planned and performed by Dr. Byun Je-ik, a Seoul National University–trained surgeon.
Filler & Lifting Specialist
Named one of Korea's 22 filler experts by Medical Times; Merz advisory board and Belotero Expert committee member.
Award-Winning
Merz Golden Record Award winner – 2024 Ultherapy Transducers and 2023 Belotero.
Natural Results
Bespoke plans built around your features and aging pattern, so results look refined, never overdone.
Foreigner-Friendly
Book in English on WhatsApp or LINE, or reach us on KakaoTalk and Instagram DM.
Your doctor
Your Doctor at Doje Clinic
Treatments are planned and performed by Representative Director Dr. Byun Je-ik – a Seoul National University–trained surgeon, Merz advisory board member, Belotero Expert committee member and Merz Golden Record Award winner (2024, 2023).
Aftercare
Thread Lifting Aftercare
Careful aftercare helps the threads settle. Your doctor will give personal instructions.
Limit Facial Movement
Avoid wide yawning, chewing hard foods and big expressions for about 1–2 weeks.
Sleep on Your Back
Keep your head slightly raised for the first nights.
No Massage
Avoid facial massage, rollers and dental work for several weeks.
Skip Heat & Alcohol
No sauna, hot baths, intense exercise or alcohol for about a week.
Keep It Clean
Keep entry points clean and follow any medication instructions.
Report Concerns
Message us on WhatsApp if you notice increasing pain, redness or fever.
Location & hours
Find Us in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam
Doje Clinic Seoul
2F Dolce Vita Building, 18-6 Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Suin-Bundang Line), Exit 5 · about 6 minutes on foot · 2 hours free parking
Phone: 02-6380-2110 · WhatsApp (English): +82 10-6535-2110
| Monday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Tuesday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 – 19:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday & public holidays | Closed |
| Weekday lunch break | 13:00 – 14:00 |
FAQ
Thread Lifting in Seoul – Frequently Asked Questions
How much does thread lifting cost in Seoul?
Thread lifting is not on the current listed price sheet at Doje Clinic in Gangnam, because the cost depends on the thread type and how many threads are needed. The price is confirmed after a doctor consultation.
Does thread lifting hurt?
Thread lifting is done under local anaesthesia, so most people feel pressure and some pinching rather than sharp pain. Additional pain-reduction options are available, and soreness afterwards usually improves within days.
How long does a thread lift last?
Thread lift results vary by thread material and individual. PDO threads dissolve over several months, while PCL-type threads tend to last longer; the collagen formed around them can help the effect last beyond the thread itself.
What are the side effects of thread lifting?
Common side effects of thread lifting include swelling, bruising, tightness and small skin dimples, which usually settle within about two weeks. Less common risks include infection, asymmetry and thread visibility, which the doctor will discuss.
Can I fly home after a thread lift?
Flying home after a thread lift is generally possible, but swelling and bruising may still be visible. Plan the procedure early in your Seoul trip and attend a check-up before you leave.
Thread lift or Ultherapy?
A thread lift repositions tissue mechanically and suits moderate sagging, while Ultherapy is non-invasive and suits milder laxity with no downtime. The two are often combined over time.
Do the doctors speak English?
Yes. English consultations are available, and you can book on WhatsApp at +82 10-6535-2110.
Related treatments
Medically reviewed by the physicians of Doje Clinic (Representative Director: Dr. Byun Je-ik). Prices are listed event prices in KRW and are confirmed after a doctor's consultation. Individual results may vary. Last updated: October 2026.
