A Dooth thread lift places dissolvable threads with small barbs or cogs under the skin to lift sagging cheeks and jowls. At Re:berry Hongdae, a doctor maps thread direction and number to your anatomy. The lift is visible right away, swelling typically settles within 1 to 2 weeks, and results commonly last around 1 to 2 years.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
Why do sagging skin and jowls develop?
Jowls form when the cheek fat pads and skin move downward and gather along the jawline. Supporting ligaments loosen, collagen declines and bone structure changes, so the once-sharp jaw line becomes softer. Weight change and sun exposure speed this up. For the full picture, see Sagging Skin and Jowls.
What is a Dooth thread lift?
Dooth is a thread-lifting system that uses absorbable threads with cogs designed to grip tissue. The doctor inserts the threads through small entry points, usually near the hairline or in front of the ear, guides them under the skin with a cannula, and then gently pulls the tissue upward before anchoring. The threads create immediate mechanical lift and, as they dissolve, a mild collagen response around them. Read the treatment overview on Dooth Thread Lift.
Who is a Dooth thread lift suitable for?
It may suit adults who:
- Have mild to moderate jowls or cheek descent
- Want a more visible lift than energy devices alone usually give
- Prefer to avoid surgery and longer recovery
- Have reasonable skin thickness to hold threads
Who may not be a good candidate?
Very heavy, loose skin or significant excess skin often needs a surgical opinion, as threads may not hold well. Thread lifting is generally avoided during pregnancy, with active skin infection, with bleeding disorders or uncontrolled diabetes, and in people prone to keloid scarring. Very thin skin can show threads, so the doctor may suggest another approach.
What happens during the procedure?
- Mapping: The doctor marks lift vectors while you sit upright so gravity is accounted for.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthetic is injected along the planned paths.
- Insertion: Threads are placed through small entry points and positioned under the skin.
- Adjustment: Tissue is lifted and symmetry is checked before the thread ends are trimmed.
The number of threads varies with your anatomy and goals, and is confirmed at consultation along with the written quote.
What is recovery like?
Expect swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness, especially when opening the mouth wide. Small dimples or puckering near entry points are common early and usually settle within one to two weeks.
- Sleep on your back with your head raised for about a week.
- Avoid wide yawning, chewing hard foods and dental work for about 2 to 4 weeks.
- Skip facial massage, saunas and strenuous exercise for at least 2 weeks.
- Do not schedule energy-based devices on the same area without your doctor's approval.
Our Aftercare After Thread Lifting page has a full checklist.
How long do results last?
The threads dissolve over months, but the lift and collagen effect commonly last about 1 to 2 years. Longevity depends on skin quality, how much descent there was at the start, lifestyle and how the face ages. Results vary by individual, and maintenance threads or other treatments can extend them.
What can be combined with a thread lift?
Re:berry's philosophy favors a designed combination rather than one procedure. Thread lifting is often paired with:
- Energy-based lifting such as Ultherapy Prime or Thermage FLX, typically done before threads or after a waiting period.
- Filler to restore lost volume in the cheeks or chin, as threads lift but do not add volume.
- Jaw Botox if a bulky masseter is contributing to a wide lower face.
- Skin boosters for skin quality.
Dooth vs other options
Mint threads are another cog-thread system with a different cog design; see Dooth Thread vs Mint Thread. If you prefer no needles under the skin, compare Thread Lift vs Ultherapy. Energy devices give a more gradual, subtle effect with less downtime, while threads give a more immediate repositioning.
Risks to discuss
Possible complications include asymmetry, visible or palpable threads, persistent dimpling, infection, thread extrusion and temporary nerve irritation. Most are manageable, but they are a reason to plan threads with time for follow-up.
Booking a consultation in Hongdae
Because recovery takes a week or more, travelers should plan threads early in a longer stay. Pricing depends on thread number and plan and is confirmed in writing at consultation. See Location & Hours and request a time on the Booking page.
Key facts
- Treatment time: About 30 to 60 minutes under local anesthesia
- Downtime: Swelling and tightness for about 3 to 14 days
- Results seen: Immediate lift, refining over 4 to 8 weeks
- Lasts: Often around 1 to 2 years, varying by person
- Material: Absorbable threads that dissolve over months
- Best for: Mild to moderate jowls and cheek descent
Frequently asked questions
Does a Dooth thread lift hurt?
Local anesthetic is used, so most people feel pressure and tugging rather than sharp pain during the procedure. Soreness and tightness are common for several days afterward and are usually manageable with doctor-approved pain relief. Discomfort varies between individuals. Tell the doctor straight away if any area feels sharp so more anesthetic can be added.
Can I fly after a thread lift?
Many people fly within a few days, but swelling and tenderness may still be present. Ideally, allow at least a week in Seoul so the doctor can check you before you leave. Avoid carrying heavy luggage that strains the face and neck.
Are thread lift results immediate?
Yes, some lift is visible immediately, but early swelling and tightness can exaggerate or mask it. The face usually settles into a more natural result over four to eight weeks as swelling resolves and collagen forms around the threads. Judge the final result at your follow-up rather than in the first few days.
Can threads be removed?
In some cases, a doctor can remove or reposition a thread if it is visible or uncomfortable, especially in the early weeks. Because the threads are absorbable, they also dissolve naturally over time. Report any concerns at your follow-up. Do not try to adjust or press on threads yourself.
Keep reading
Before you book
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Suitability, dose, number of sessions and expected results are decided by a doctor at consultation, and results vary by individual. Possible side effects include redness, swelling and bruising. Pricing is confirmed in writing before any treatment. See our medical disclaimer.
Start with a diagnosis, not a package
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae designs your plan after a one-to-one skin assessment. Multilingual consultation support is available.