5 Reasons Why Thread Lifts Are Trending Now, and How They've Evolved from Traditional Threads
- Why PCL Lasts 18 Months When PDO Threads Dissolve in 6 Months
- The Thread Lift Trend is Shifting from 'Fast-Dissolving Threads' to 'Slow-Stimulating Threads'
- In 2025, the Focus Will Be on Collagen Accumulation Effects, Not Just Lifting
Information as of September 2026
Evolution from PDO to PCL
- PCL threads last 12-18 months
- Collagen production lasts 6 months
- Procedure volume in 2025 increased by 34% year-over-year
If You Thought Thread Lifts Only Lasted Six Months
Many people believe that thread lifts only last for six months before returning to their original state. However, this is only partially true nowadays.
In 2025, the number of thread lift procedures increased by 34% compared to the previous year, driven by new material threads that differ from existing PDO threads.
The biggest changes are in how quickly the threads dissolve and how they stimulate collagen production.
While previously threads would be absorbed within six months, PCL threads, which last up to 18 months and continuously stimulate collagen, are now commonly used.
From PDO to PCL: Why the Change?
PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are made from surgical suture material and are completely broken down in the body within 4-6 months.
They dissolve quickly, minimizing discomfort, but collagen production also ends within that short period.
On the other hand, PCL (Polycaprolactone) threads dissolve slowly over 12-18 months, allowing collagen to build up around the threads throughout that period.
Clinical data for PCL threads approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety shows increased collagen density even up to 6 months post-procedure.
If PDO is a method that 'lifts immediately through pulling,' PCL can be seen as a method that 'slowly stimulates to create fullness from within.'
OX Quiz
PCL threads dissolve faster than PDO threads, causing less discomfort.
Check the answer
X PCL actually dissolves more slowly. While PDO is absorbed in 4-6 months, PCL breaks down over 12-18 months, stimulating collagen production throughout that time. Slow dissolution is the secret to long-lasting results.
5 Reasons Why It's Popular Now, Explained with Numbers
1) The duration of effect has increased. PDO: 6 months → PCL: 12-18 months.
2) Cog threads have been developed. While previous threads were smooth, modern threads have serrated protrusions on their surface, providing a more secure grip on skin tissue.
3) Pain has decreased. The needle gauge has become thinner, from 29G to 31G, resulting in less bruising after the procedure.
4) Customized designs for different areas are now possible. You can combine fine threads for the eye area with thicker threads for the jawline.
5) The cost-effectiveness is clearer. Fillers are 300,000-500,000 KRW per cc and are absorbed within 6 months, while thread lifts, costing an average of 800,000-1,500,000 KRW, last over a year, reducing the burden of repeat procedures.
Key Takeaway According to data presented at the 2024 Korean Dermatological Association conference, patient satisfaction with PCL thread procedures was 18% higher compared to PDO, and the interval for repeat procedures was extended by an average of 4 months.
However, It's Not Suitable for Everyone
Because PCL threads last longer, there's a risk of foreign body sensation or inflammation for individuals with thin skin or sensitive immune responses.
In fact, more cases of feeling the threads or experiencing pulling sensations are reported with PCL compared to PDO within 2-4 weeks post-procedure.
Additionally, if you want an immediate lifting effect, COG threads are better, but the results depend on the practitioner's skill due to the importance of insertion angle and thread count.
Therefore, the current trend is 'not using just one type of thread.' For thin skin areas like around the eyes, PDO is used, while for areas requiring elasticity like the jawline, a combination of PCL and COG threads is designed.
Ultimately, the reason thread lifts are gaining popularity is because the options have expanded.
- Average duration of PCL threads: 12-18 months, repeat procedure interval extended by 4 months compared to PDO
- Cold compresses and avoiding head-down positions for up to 2 weeks post-procedure are crucial for recovery and results
PDO vs PCL vs COG: Which Thread to Choose
PDO Threads [Fast Recovery]
- Absorption Period: 4-6 months
- Lifting Effect: Immediate, lasts 2-3 months
- Suitable Areas: Eyes, forehead, thin skin
For first-time procedures or when you want to start with less intensity
PCL Threads [Long Lasting]
- Absorption Period: 12-18 months
- Collagen Production: Increases up to 6 months
- Suitable Areas: Jawline, cheeks, mid-face
When you want to extend the interval between procedures or aim for improved elasticity
COG Threads [Strong Lift]
- Absorption Period: 6-12 months
- Enhanced tissue fixation with barbs
- Suitable Areas: Jawline, nasolabial folds, neck
For severe sagging or when immediate lifting is needed
Misconceptions
Myth Thread lifts maintain a lifted appearance permanently after one procedure.
Truth It's a process where collagen replaces the absorbed threads. PDO gradually dissolves over 6 months, and PCL over 12-18 months. After dissolution, the generated collagen maintains elasticity. The threads themselves are not permanent.
What to Do Before and After Thread Lift Procedures
- **For 2 weeks post-procedure, avoid bending your head down or sleeping on your side, as this can cause threads to shift.** Maintaining a supine position and adjusting pillow height is essential.
- **Repeat cold compresses for 15 minutes at a time for the first 48 hours after the procedure.** This is a critical period for reducing swelling and bruising.
- **Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and high-intensity exercise for 1 month post-procedure.** Elevated body temperature can cause inflammation around the threads.
Frequently Asked Questions
I can feel the threads after a thread lift. Is that okay?
It's possible to feel the threads slightly within 2-4 weeks post-procedure, especially with thicker PCL or COG threads in areas with thin skin. If they protrude or cause pain after 1 month, consult your clinic.
Can PDO and PCL be used together?
Yes, combining threads for different areas is standard practice now. Using PDO for thin skin areas like the eyes and a combination of PCL and COG for the jawline can achieve both lifting and long-lasting results.
What are the side effects of thread lifts?
Potential side effects include thread extrusion, inflammation, asymmetry, and dimpling around the threads. Incorrect insertion angles can lead to a pulling sensation when making facial expressions, so it's crucial to confirm the medical professional's experience before the procedure.
Lumi's Take
The reason thread lifts are popular now is ultimately because the options have increased. You can now choose threads that suit your skin condition and goals. However, longer-lasting threads aren't always better. Consider how thin your skin is and how quickly you want to recover. If you have more questions, feel free to visit again anytime!
This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a specialist before undergoing any procedure.
