Guide to Face Thread Lift Types and Youthful Lifting
Key Characteristics of Major Thread Lift Types
Thread lifts are primarily classified by the thread's shape and material, which determine the treatment's duration and lifting efficacy.
1. Classification by Thread Shape (Difference in Lifting Effect)
Barbed threads (Cogs) are frequently used to maximize the lifting effect.
| Type | Features and Function | Main Effect |
| Mono Thread | Thin, short, straight threads without barbs. Focuses less on powerful lifting and more on improving fine lines and increasing skin elasticity through collagen regeneration. | Skin elasticity, fine line improvement |
| Cog Thread | Features hooks or barbs (Cogs) on the surface that powerfully pull and anchor sagging skin tissue. Most commonly used for V-line lifting. | Strong lifting, V-line contouring |
| Screw Thread | Mono threads twisted or shaped helically to boost collagen stimulation. Mainly used in areas lacking volume. | Volume increase, firmness enhancement |
| Mint Thread | A Cog thread with 360-degree helically arranged barbs, characterized by powerful anchoring strength and lifting effect. | Noticeable sagging correction, long duration |
2. Classification by Thread Material (Difference in Duration)
Absorbable threads made of PDO, PLLA, and PCL components are primarily used. These materials stimulate collagen production as they dissolve.
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PDO (Polydioxanone): The most common thread used in Korea. It is absorbed within about 6 months to 1 year, and its effect on collagen synthesis post-procedure is excellent.
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PLLA (Poly L-Lactic Acid): Absorbs slower than PDO, with effects potentially lasting over 1.5 years. It has a very high capacity for inducing collagen production. (e.g., the component in Sculptra)
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PCL (Polycaprolactone): One of the longest-lasting absorbable threads (approx. 2 years or more). It is soft and flexible, making it suitable for areas with frequent movement.
Treatment Combinations for Youthful Lifting (Anti-Aging Trends)
A truly youthful lift aims to achieve natural results by simultaneously improving the lost facial volume and sub-dermal skin firmness, rather than just pulling the skin tight.
| Treatment Goal | Recommended Thread Lift & Procedure | Expected Result |
| V-line & Sagging Correction | Cog Threads (Strong threads like Mint/Ultra Cog) | Tightened jawline, improved nasolabial folds |
| Skin Elasticity & Fine Lines | Mono Threads (used in large quantities), Screw Threads | Reduction of fine lines around eyes/mouth, overall skin texture improvement |
| Volume Enhancement (Hollow Cheeks, Above Nasolabial Folds) | PLLA/PCL threads (maximizes collagen stimulation) | Natural volume increase, filler-like effect |
Core Strategies for a Youthful Lift
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Combination Therapy: To maximize the thread lift effect, it is recommended to combine it with heat-energy-based lifting like Ultherapy/Thermage to contract the deeper skin layers, or with fat removal or fat repositioning to first address unnecessary fullness (e.g., double chin) before thread insertion.
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Personalized Design: A youthful lift must be customized based on the individual's skin thickness, degree of sagging, and fat volume. The thread type (PDO/PLLA/PCL), quantity, and insertion direction must all be tailored. Consultation with an experienced medical practitioner is essential.
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Precise Depth Control: Inserting the thread too superficially can cause dimpling or visibility on the skin surface, while inserting it too deep may diminish the lifting effect. Skilled technique is critical for accurate thread placement between the SMAS layer and the fat layer.
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