Thread lifting in Korea is known for producing subtle, natural-looking facial lifting without downtime. But not all threads work the same. Korea uses three main types of dissolvable lifting threads—PDO, PLLA, and PCL—each offering different lifting power, longevity, and collagen-stimulating effects.

If you’re choosing a thread lift in Korea, here’s the complete breakdown of which thread type is best for your skin, goals, and level of sagging.

What Are Thread Lifts?

Thread lifts use dissolvable sutures placed under the skin to:

• Reposition sagging tissue
• Support facial structures
• Stimulate collagen as they dissolve
• Create a subtle, natural lift

Korea specializes in light, refined lifting rather than overly dramatic or “pulled” results. The thread material determines how strong the lift is and how long results last.

1. PDO Threads: The Classic Korean Lifting Thread

PDO (Polydioxanone) is the original and most widely used thread material in Korea.

Key Features

• Softest and most flexible
• Easy to customize for different face shapes
• Shorter duration (6–12 months)
• Strong collagen stimulation

Best For

• First-time thread lift patients
• Mild sagging
• Subtle tightening
• Jawline refinement
• Nasolabial softening

Why Koreans Love PDO

PDO threads deliver a natural, gentle lift without stiffness. They also stimulate collagen quickly, improving texture and firmness.

Most natural-looking results for early aging.

2. PLLA Threads: Strong Collagen Builder

PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) threads are similar to the ingredient used in collagen-stimulating injectables. They focus heavily on long-term collagen regeneration.

Key Features

• Stronger lifting than PDO
• Longer-lasting effect (12–18+ months)
• Excellent for skin thickening and firmness
• Stimulates deep collagen production

Best For

• Moderate sagging
• Cheek descent
• Jawline support
• Long-term facial firming

Why Choose PLLA

PLLA offers a good balance of lift + longevity. It improves elasticity and builds structure over time, especially helpful for people in their late 30s–50s.

Best for those wanting both immediate lift and long-term tightening.

3. PCL Threads: Premium Long-Lasting Lifting

PCL (Polycaprolactone) is the most advanced and longest-lasting thread material used in Korean clinics.

Key Features

• Strongest lifting effect
• Longest duration (18–24+ months)
• Slow, high-quality collagen regeneration
• More durable structure

Best For

• Moderate to severe sagging
• Lower face lifting
• Heavy cheeks
• Jawline and neck tightening
• Patients wanting maximum longevity

Why PCL Stands Out

PCL threads keep their structure longer, giving the most powerful and durable lift. They also create thicker, more stable collagen over time.

Best for people with deeper sagging or heavier facial tissue.

Which Thread Type Looks Most Natural?

All three can look natural when placed correctly, but:

• PDO → Most natural for light tightening
• PLLA → Natural for structured, long-term firmness
• PCL → Natural for strong lift in heavier tissue

Korea’s technique focuses on subtle correction, not dramatic pulling.

Choosing the Right Thread Type in Korea

Choose PDO if you want:

• Your first thread lift
• Mild lifting and tightening
• Soft, natural V-line
• Minimal swelling

Choose PLLA if you want:

• More collagen and elasticity
• Long-term tightening
• Moderate lifting

Choose PCL if you want:

• Maximum lifting power
• Longest results
• Strong support for sagging cheeks or jawline

Combination Thread Lifting (Korean Method)

Korean dermatologists often mix thread types for layered improvement:

• PCL for strong lift of deeper tissues
• PLLA for long-term firmness
• PDO for surface tightening and contour refinement

This combination produces:

• More stable lift
• Smoother contour
• Better longevity
• Gradual, natural improvement

Which Thread Type Is the Best Overall?

There’s no universal “best”—each material is designed for a different purpose:

• Best for beginners: PDO
• Best for long-term tightening: PLLA
• Best for lifting power: PCL
• Best for heavy jaws or deep sagging: PCL
• Best for natural, subtle refinement: PDO
• Best for 30s–50s with visible aging: PLLA or PCL

FAQ (Short Answers)

Do threads make your face look stiff?

Not in Korea—techniques prioritize natural repositioning, not excessive pulling.

Do threads dissolve?

Yes—all dissolve, leaving new collagen behind.

Can threads replace a facelift?

For deeper sagging, no. They are best for mild to moderate lifting.

How long is downtime?

Most people resume normal activities in 1–2 days.