What It Is
A PCL (Polycaprolactone) Thread Lift is a non-surgical facelift procedure that uses absorbable threads made of polycaprolactone, a long-lasting biodegradable polymer widely used in medical sutures. PCL is known for its durability and collagen-stimulating ability, making it one of the most advanced thread materials available today.
When inserted under the skin, PCL threads:
- Provide an immediate mechanical lift to sagging tissues.
- Stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid for long-term tightening.
- Gradually dissolve over 24–36 months, leaving behind a natural collagen scaffold.
Compared to PDO and PLLA threads, PCL threads last the longest and create more robust collagen regeneration. In Korea, PCL thread lifts are considered a premium anti-aging solution, especially for patients in their 40s to 60s who want longer-lasting results without surgery.
Why It’s Done
Patients choose PCL thread lifts for both immediate lifting and extended rejuvenation:
➝ Jawline definition → Sharpens the V-line and reduces sagging jowls.
➝ Cheek lift → Restores mid-face volume and youthful contour.
➝ Nasolabial fold reduction → Softens deep smile lines.
➝ Neck tightening → Improves sagging and crepey texture.
➝ Brow lifting → Lifts drooping eyelids and creates a refreshed appearance.
➝ Long-term collagen support → Improves firmness, elasticity, and hydration over years.
In Korean aesthetics, PCL thread lifts are highly valued because they align with the K-beauty philosophy of natural, lasting results, helping patients age gracefully with subtle, progressive improvements.
Alternatives
While PCL thread lifts are highly effective, alternatives may also be considered:
- PDO thread lifts → Shorter duration (12–18 months), good for beginners or younger patients.
- PLLA thread lifts → Last 18–24 months, slightly shorter than PCL.
- Cog PDO threads → Provide mechanical lift but dissolve faster.
- HIFU (Ultherapy, Shurink, Doublo) → Non-invasive deep tightening, but no structural lift.
- Thermage FLX (Monopolar RF) → Improves wrinkles and surface laxity.
- RF microneedling (Scarlet SRF, Sylfirm X) → Great for texture and scars.
- Injectables (Sculptra, Radiesse, Rejuran) → Collagen stimulators without mechanical lift.
- Surgical facelift → Permanent results for severe sagging, but invasive.
In Korea, PCL thread lifts are often combined with complementary treatments:
- PCL threads + HIFU → Structural lifting plus SMAS tightening.
- PCL threads + Thermage → Long-lasting collagen support plus wrinkle smoothing.
- PCL threads + Fillers/Rejuran → Lifting plus hydration and skin repair.
Preparation
Preparation ensures safety and better outcomes:
➝ Consultation & mapping → Doctors assess sagging and plan thread placement with precision.
➝ Medical history review → Patients disclose bleeding disorders, medications, and allergies.
➝ Stop blood thinners → Avoid aspirin or supplements 5–7 days before (with medical approval).
➝ No alcohol or smoking → At least 48 hours prior.
➝ Skincare prep → Discontinue retinoids, acids, and harsh treatments for 3–5 days.
➝ Numbing → Local anesthesia is used; no general anesthesia required.
In Korea, many clinics provide a hydrating facial or soothing mask before the procedure to prepare the skin.
How It’s Done
A PCL thread lift session usually takes 60–90 minutes:
- Cleansing & sterilization → The face is deeply cleansed.
- Local anesthesia → Injections numb the treatment area.
- Thread insertion →
- Threads are inserted using cannulas or needles.
- Barbed PCL threads are placed along vectors to lift sagging tissues.
- Adjustment → Threads are gently pulled to create the lift.
- Trimming & finishing → Excess threads are cut, and cooling masks are applied.
Treatment plan:
- One session → Produces immediate lifting and long-term collagen benefits.
- Maintenance → Every 24–36 months, much less frequent than PDO or PLLA lifts.
Recovery
PCL thread lifts involve slightly longer recovery than PDO or PLLA but still much less than surgery:
- Immediately after → Noticeable lift; mild swelling and dimpling possible.
- Day 1–7 → Soreness, bruising, and tightness common.
- Week 2–3 → Threads settle; irregularities smooth out.
- Month 1–3 → Collagen production improves firmness and elasticity.
- Month 6–12 → Best results visible; contours look naturally youthful.
Aftercare recommendations:
➝ Avoid chewing hard foods, wide yawning, or exaggerated expressions for 1–2 weeks.
➝ Sleep on your back with head elevated for the first week.
➝ Apply ice packs in the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
➝ Avoid saunas, alcohol, and strenuous exercise for 1–2 weeks.
➝ Always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
In Korea, clinics provide antibiotics, anti-swelling creams, and follow-up visits as part of aftercare.
Complications
PCL thread lifts are safe, but possible risks include:
➝ Swelling, bruising, tenderness → Common and temporary.
➝ Skin dimpling or puckering → Usually resolves in weeks.
➝ Thread visibility or migration → Rare, corrected with adjustments.
➝ Infection → Rare, minimized with sterile technique and antibiotics.
➝ Asymmetry → Avoided with precise mapping and experienced practitioners.
Korean dermatologists minimize risks with FDA/KFDA-approved PCL threads, advanced techniques, and detailed aftercare protocols.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is one of the world’s leaders in thread lift innovation and execution, especially with long-lasting materials like PCL.
1. Types of PCL Threads
- Cog/barbed PCL threads → Strong lifting power.
- Mono PCL threads → For collagen stimulation in fine-line areas.
- Combination lifts → Blend of PDO, PLLA, and PCL for layered results.
Final Thoughts
PCL Thread Lift in Korea is a premium non-surgical lifting treatment offering the longest-lasting results among absorbable threads. With both immediate lifting and extended collagen stimulation, it is ideal for patients who want natural rejuvenation without frequent maintenance.
Korean clinics have perfected PCL thread lifts by using advanced mapping, blending multiple thread types, and integrating them with other tightening technologies like HIFU and Thermage. For patients seeking a safe, natural, and durable alternative to surgical facelifts, PCL thread lifts in Korea are one of the best options worldwide.
