Thread Lift in Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

What is a thread lift?

A thread lift (실리프팅) is a non-surgical procedure in which fine, absorbable medical threads are inserted beneath the skin through tiny entry points. The threads hold sagging soft tissue in a lifted position and, as they gradually dissolve, the surrounding tissue responds by forming new collagen. Because there is no incision or general anaesthesia, it sits between injectables and surgery: more mechanical lift than an energy device alone, with far less recovery than a facelift.

The outcome depends less on the thread itself than on design — where vectors are placed, how deep, and how the lift is balanced against volume. That is why the same procedure can look natural on one face and “pulled” on another.

How Doje Clinic approaches thread lifting

Thread lifting is the clinic's signature. Doje cites 17 years of accumulated thread-lift experience and designs every lift around the patient's face shape and specific sagging pattern rather than a fixed template. Three principles guide the work:

• Meticulous placement to avoid the lumps and irregularities that make thread lifts look obvious.
• An immediate, natural lift — visible right after treatment, without a stretched or windswept look.
• Longevity — the clinic states results can last up to two years or more, depending on age, skin quality and lifestyle.

Threads are rarely the whole answer. Following Doje's philosophy that care needs change as time passes, Dr. Byun Jeik assesses structure, volume and skin together and adds filler, collagen boosters or an energy device only where they genuinely help. For example, the Mid-Face Program pairs a mid-face thread lift with retaining-ligament filler, while the Jawline Program may pair a lower-face lift with double-chin liposuction.

Which areas can be lifted?

• Mid-face: descended cheeks and deepening smile lines — see Mid-Face Thread Lift.
• Lower face: jowls, marionette area and a softened jawline — see Lower-Face Thread Lift.
• Upper face and eye area: brow descent and a tired eye frame — see Upper-Face Thread Lift.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

• Often a good fit: people in their late 30s to 60s with mild-to-moderate sagging who want visible lift without surgery or long downtime.
• May need a different plan: very heavy skin excess, significant fat-driven heaviness, or very thin skin — combination care or a surgical opinion may serve better.
• Postpone if: pregnant or breastfeeding, active skin infection in the area, or certain bleeding disorders and medications — discuss these openly at consultation.

What to expect, step by step

1. 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik: your goals, history and photos are reviewed and your face is assessed at rest and in motion.
2. Design: lift vectors and entry points are planned and marked for your face shape.
3. Comfort: local anaesthesia is used at the entry points.
4. Treatment: threads are placed and the lift is checked for symmetry and natural movement.
5. Aftercare: written instructions and a follow-up plan; supportive care such as oxygen therapy may be added.

Recovery and aftercare

Mild swelling, tightness or small bruises at entry points are common in the first days and usually settle within about one to two weeks. Many patients return to desk work within a day or two. In general, avoid wide mouth opening, facial massage, saunas and strenuous exercise for the period your doctor specifies. Full guidance: Thread Lift Aftercare.

Cost

Doje Clinic quotes thread lifting after the 1:1 consultation because the price depends on the areas treated, the number and type of threads and whether it is combined with other care. Aesthetic treatments are non-covered (비급여) in Korea; ask for a written quote before treatment. See How treatment pricing works.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a thread lift last?

It varies with age, skin and lifestyle. Doje Clinic states that its signature thread lift results can last up to two years or more, and collagen formed around the threads supports the result as they dissolve.

Is the result visible immediately?

Yes. A lift is visible right after treatment; it then settles over the following weeks as initial swelling and tightness resolve.

Does a thread lift hurt?

Local anaesthesia is used at the entry points, so most people describe pressure and mild discomfort rather than pain. Tenderness for a few days afterwards is normal.

Will it look natural?

Natural results depend on design. Doje plans lift vectors to each face shape and sagging pattern and avoids over-pulling or lumpiness.

Can I combine a thread lift with filler or Ultherapy?

Often, yes. Dr. Byun Jeik may add filler, collagen boosters or an energy device such as Ultherapy Prime only where your assessment shows they will help.

Can I have it done during a short trip to Seoul?

Many visitors do. The One-Day Program is designed to fit lifting and recovery care into a single day; plan a few extra days in Seoul for the initial swelling to settle.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Doje Signature Program
• One-Day Program
• Thread Lift vs Ultherapy
• Thread Lift vs Filler
• Jowls
• Sagging Cheeks
• What Is the SMAS Layer?

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.