What It Is
A PLLA Thread Lift is a non-surgical facelift procedure that uses Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) threads to lift sagging skin and stimulate long-term collagen production. PLLA is a biodegradable polymer also used in dermal fillers like Sculptra. When inserted under the skin, these threads:
- Provide an immediate mechanical lift for sagging tissues.
- Stimulate collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production for months after treatment.
- Gradually dissolve over 18–24 months, leaving behind a supportive collagen matrix.
Compared to PDO threads (which dissolve faster, 6–8 months), PLLA threads are longer-lasting and stronger, making them ideal for patients who want more durable lifting results. In Korea, PLLA thread lifts are widely used for patients in their 30s to 50s, as they provide both visible lifting and long-term rejuvenation.
Why It’s Done
PLLA thread lifts are chosen for both restorative anti-aging and contouring benefits:
➝ Jawline tightening → Defines the V-line and reduces jowls.
➝ Cheek and mid-face lift → Restores youthful fullness and reduces sagging.
➝ Nasolabial fold reduction → Softens smile lines.
➝ Neck and décolletage rejuvenation → Firms sagging, crepey skin.
➝ Brow lifting → Corrects drooping eyelids and tired appearance.
➝ Long-term collagen stimulation → Provides gradual improvement in skin quality.
In Korean aesthetics, PLLA thread lifts are valued for their ability to provide subtle, natural results that evolve over time, avoiding the “over-pulled” look of surgery.
Alternatives
While PLLA thread lifts are highly effective, alternatives may also be considered:
- PDO thread lifts → Shorter duration (12–18 months), better for younger patients.
- PCL thread lifts → Even longer-lasting than PLLA (24–36 months).
- Cog PDO threads → Barbed threads for mechanical lifting but shorter duration.
- HIFU (Ultherapy, Shurink, Doublo) → Ultrasound tightening, no threads inserted.
- Thermage FLX (monopolar RF) → Superficial tightening and wrinkle improvement.
- RF microneedling (Scarlet SRF, Sylfirm X) → Improves texture and scars, not lifting.
- Injectables (Sculptra, Radiesse, Rejuran) → Collagen stimulators without mechanical lifting.
- Surgical facelift → For severe sagging, permanent but invasive.
In Korea, PLLA thread lifts are often combined with other treatments:
- PLLA threads + HIFU → Deep SMAS tightening plus mechanical lift.
- PLLA threads + Thermage → Superficial collagen remodeling plus structural lift.
- PLLA threads + Fillers/Rejuran → Lifting plus hydration and skin repair.
Preparation
Preparation helps ensure safety and optimal outcomes:
➝ Consultation & facial mapping → Korean doctors use 3D analysis to plan thread placement.
➝ Medical history review → Disclose bleeding disorders, medications, and allergies.
➝ Stop blood thinners → Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or supplements 5–7 days before (with doctor’s approval).
➝ No alcohol or smoking → At least 48 hours prior to procedure.
➝ Skincare adjustment → Avoid retinoids, acids, and chemical peels for 3–5 days.
➝ Numbing → Local anesthesia is used; general anesthesia is not required.
How It’s Done
A PLLA thread lift session usually takes 60–90 minutes:
- Cleansing & numbing → The face is sterilized and numbed with local anesthesia.
- Thread insertion →
- Fine cannulas insert PLLA threads along pre-mapped vectors.
- Barbed threads anchor into tissues, providing lift.
- Adjustment & lifting → The threads are gently pulled to reposition sagging areas.
- Trimming → Excess thread ends are cut.
- Finishing care → Cooling masks, antibiotics, or LED light therapy applied to reduce swelling.
Treatment plan:
- One session → Produces instant lift plus long-term collagen stimulation.
- Maintenance → Every 18–24 months, depending on lifestyle and skin aging.
Recovery
PLLA thread lifts require short recovery compared to surgery but longer than PDO lifts:
- Immediately after → Instant lift visible; mild swelling, bruising, and dimpling common.
- Day 1–7 → Tightness, tenderness, and pulling sensations typical.
- Week 2–3 → Dimpling smooths out as threads settle.
- Month 1–3 → Collagen production strengthens tissues.
- Month 6–12 → Best results visible with firmer, lifted skin.
Aftercare recommendations:
➝ Avoid exaggerated expressions, yawning, or chewing hard food for 1–2 weeks.
➝ Sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first week.
➝ Use ice packs to reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.
➝ Avoid saunas, alcohol, or strenuous workouts for 1–2 weeks.
➝ Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
In Korea, clinics provide aftercare kits including barrier creams, anti-swelling masks, and follow-up checkups.
Complications
PLLA thread lifts are generally safe, but possible side effects include:
➝ Swelling, bruising, soreness → Common, resolves in days to weeks.
➝ Dimpling or puckering → Usually temporary.
➝ Thread visibility or migration → Rare, corrected with trimming or adjustment.
➝ Infection → Uncommon, prevented by sterile techniques.
➝ Asymmetry → Prevented by skilled thread mapping and placement.
Korean dermatology clinics minimize risks with high-quality FDA/KFDA-approved threads and expert techniques.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is a leader in thread lift technology, especially PLLA-based treatments.
1. Types of PLLA Threads
- Cog/barbed PLLA threads → For lifting cheeks, jawline, and neck.
- Mono PLLA threads → For collagen stimulation in fine-line areas.
- Combination thread lifts → Different threads used together for custom results.
Final Thoughts
PLLA Thread Lift in Korea is one of the most effective non-surgical lifting treatments available today. With barbed threads that anchor tissues and stimulate long-term collagen production, it offers both immediate and lasting rejuvenation.
Korean clinics have perfected PLLA thread lifts through advanced techniques, facial mapping, and combination therapies (HIFU, Thermage, injectables), ensuring results are safe, subtle, and natural. For patients seeking a longer-lasting, minimally invasive facelift alternative, a PLLA thread lift in Korea is among the best choices worldwide.
