Thread lift results timeline

A thread lift uses dissolvable PDO (polydioxanone) threads with small barbs or cogs. Placed under the skin, they reposition sagging tissue and trigger collagen around each thread. So you get two results: a mechanical lift on the day and a collagen effect that builds as the threads dissolve.

When	What you may notice	What is happening
Day 0	A visible lift, sometimes slightly over-corrected; tightness and small dimples near entry points	Threads anchor and reposition tissue
Days 1–3	Peak swelling, possible bruising, tightness when chewing or yawning	Normal healing response
Days 4–7	Swelling and bruising fade; most people feel ready for photos	Tissue settles around the threads
Weeks 2–4	The lift looks natural; dimples usually smooth out	Tissue adapts to its new position
Months 1–6	Firmer, better-supported skin	Collagen forms as PDO threads gradually dissolve
Months 12–18	Gradual fade	Normal aging continues; plan maintenance

Read about the procedure and thread types on our thread lift treatment page.

What improves and what doesn't

Usually improves

Early to moderate jowls and a softening jawline
Sagging cheeks that deepen the smile lines
Marionette lines caused by tissue descent
Skin firmness along the thread paths

Usually does not change

Heavy sagging with a lot of excess skin, which needs a surgical opinion
Volume loss, which needs filler or a collagen stimulator
Fine surface lines, pores and pigmentation
Expression lines from muscle movement

Factors that influence your results

Thread type and number: the price is per area, but the thread count is tailored to your laxity.
Skin and tissue quality: very thin or very heavy tissue can hold a lift less predictably.
Aftercare: wide mouth opening, facial massage and pressure on the face in the first weeks can shift threads.
Age and laxity: moderate sagging in good-quality skin gives the most natural result.
Combination: adding volume or energy-based tightening often improves the overall look.

How to maximize and maintain your results

Threads lift tissue but do not replace lost volume. If the cheeks are hollow, a little dermal filler can be added later. Many people also plan ultrasound lifting at their next visit to support the deeper layers; see Thread Lift vs Ulthera Prime for how the two compare.

Sleep on your back with your head raised for the first few nights.
Avoid wide yawning, hard chewing, dental work and facial massage for about two to four weeks, as your doctor advises.
Skip saunas, intense exercise and alcohol for the first week.
Follow our aftercare instructions closely.

Realistic expectations and when to repeat

A thread lift gives a real, visible change, but it is not a facelift. The goal is a refreshed lower face that still looks like you. Plan around the first week of swelling: our guide to planning treatments around your Seoul itinerary helps you place it early in your trip. Most people repeat it after about 12–18 months. Our medical team's thread lift review discusses pros and cons, and the thread lift price page explains per-area pricing. Prices are in Korean won (KRW), exclude 10% VAT, and are confirmed at your consultation.

Tracking your progress

Take photos before treatment, then at one week, one month and three months. Day-one photos often look over-corrected, so don't judge from them.

Use the same window light and the same time of day.
Take front, 45-degree and profile views with your face relaxed.
Tie your hair back so the jawline and cheeks are visible.
Keep the same distance and turn off beauty filters.

If your results aren't what you expected

Some asymmetry, dimpling or tightness is common in the first two weeks and usually settles. If a dimple persists, a thread end feels prominent, or you notice increasing pain, warmth or redness, contact Dernia promptly. Our guide to normal side effects vs when to contact us explains the difference. For other options, browse our results guides.

How soon will I see thread lift results?

You see a lift immediately. Swelling usually settles in three to seven days, and the result looks natural by about two to four weeks.

How long does a thread lift last?

Results commonly last about 12–18 months. The threads dissolve over several months, but the collagen they stimulate helps support the skin after that.

Why does my face look uneven after a thread lift?

Uneven swelling and small dimples are common in the first one to two weeks and usually resolve as tissue settles. If unevenness persists beyond that, contact the clinic for a review.

Can I fly after a thread lift?

Many people fly a few days after treatment. Swelling can be more noticeable on a flight, so it helps to schedule the procedure early in your trip.

Can I get filler after a thread lift?

Yes. Filler is often added to restore volume once swelling has settled. Your doctor will advise the timing.

About the treatment

Thread lift in Seoul — dissolvable PDO threads
Thread lift price — from ₩690,000 per area
Thread lift review — our medical team's verdict

Alternatives and add-ons

Ulthera Prime — non-invasive deep lifting
Sculptra — gradual volume and firmness
Thermage FLX — RF skin tightening

Concerns and guides

Jowls — lower-face options
Marionette lines — causes and treatments
Nasolabial folds — smile line treatments
Korean lifting treatments explained — non-surgical options

Dernia Clinic Myeongdong

Thread Lift Results: Timeline and What to Expect