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What is a thread lift?

A thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure in which fine medical threads are inserted under the skin through small entry points with a needle or cannula. The threads hold sagging tissue in a lifted position and stimulate collagen as they gradually dissolve. There is no scalpel incision, which is why recovery is shorter than with a surgical facelift. For a general overview, see what is a thread lift?

Not all threads are the same. They differ in material, the shape of their cogs or barbs, thickness, length and how they are placed. Those differences change how much lift they give, how natural the result feels and how long it lasts. At Re:berry, the two main thread options are Mint and Dooth.

What is a Mint thread lift?

Mint threads are made from PDO (polydioxanone), an absorbable material long used in surgical sutures. Their defining feature is a 3D-molded barb design: rather than being cut into the thread, the cogs are pressed into shape, which is intended to give a stronger, more durable grip on tissue. Once inserted along a planned vector, the barbs anchor and lift the cheeks, jowls or jawline.

Strength: designed for noticeable mechanical lift.
Common areas: jowls, jawline, mid-cheek and nasolabial area.
Feel: some tightness and a pulling sensation for the first week or two.

More detail is on our Mint Thread Lift page.

What is a Dooth thread lift?

Dooth thread lifting is described by Re:berry as a premium non-incisional thread lifting program. Because thread products and techniques vary, the doctor explains the exact thread type, number of threads and placement plan during consultation. In general terms, this kind of program is chosen when the goal is natural-looking support and contour refinement while keeping recovery manageable. See Dooth Thread Lift for more.

Dooth vs Mint: how do they compare?

Lifting strength

Mint's molded barbs are built for firm grip, so it is often considered when there is visible sagging that needs repositioning. Dooth may be planned when the priority is refinement and a softer, natural outcome, though actual lifting depends on the thread count and design used.

Naturalness

Both aim for natural results when placed well. A stronger lift can feel tighter at first, while gentler designs may feel less noticeable early on. The doctor's technique and vector planning matter as much as the brand.

Recovery

Both commonly involve swelling, mild bruising and tenderness for about three to seven days. Strong barbed threads can cause temporary skin dimpling or a tight feeling when opening the mouth widely, which usually settles within one to two weeks.

Longevity

PDO threads typically dissolve over around six months, while the collagen and repositioning effect may last longer, often cited as around 12 to 18 months. Results vary by individual, age and skin quality.

Who each tends to suit

Mint: moderate sagging, heavier jowls, people wanting a more visible lift.
Dooth: early to moderate laxity, people prioritizing subtle contour refinement.
Either may not suit: very heavy skin excess, very thin skin, active infection, bleeding disorders or pregnancy.

How does the doctor choose?

At Re:berry Hongdae the decision follows diagnosis, not brand preference. The doctor evaluates:

How far tissue has descended and where.
Skin thickness and how much fat lies under the skin.
Volume loss that may make sagging look worse.
Your desired result and tolerance for early tightness.
Your schedule, including flights and events.

In some cases, both threads may be used in one plan, or threads may be combined with energy-based lifting. Thread lifting gives immediate repositioning, while Ultherapy or Thermage builds collagen gradually, so they can complement each other. Compare these approaches in thread lift vs Ultherapy.

What happens on the day?

Design: lifting vectors are marked on the face.
Anesthesia: local anesthetic is applied at entry points and along the path.
Insertion: threads are placed with a fine cannula and adjusted for symmetry.
Trim and finish: ends are trimmed below the skin; you rest briefly before leaving.

Aftercare for both thread types

Avoid wide mouth opening, chewing tough foods and facial massage for about two weeks.
Sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first several nights.
Skip saunas, intense exercise and alcohol for about a week.
Avoid dental work for a couple of weeks if possible.
Report increasing pain, redness, heat or discharge promptly, as these can signal infection.

See our full thread lifting aftercare guide.

Side effects to know about

Common effects are swelling, bruising, tenderness and a pulling feeling. Less common effects include skin dimpling, visible or palpable threads, asymmetry, thread extrusion and infection. Most are manageable and some resolve on their own, but follow-up is important. This is one reason travelers should allow time in Seoul after the procedure.

Planning a thread lift during a trip

Ideally allow at least five to seven days in Seoul after a thread lift so swelling can settle and a check-up can take place if needed. Avoid scheduling it on the day before a long-haul flight. Pricing depends on the thread type, number of threads and plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. Find our address and hours on the Location & Hours page and book via our Booking page.

Which lasts longer, Dooth or Mint?

Longevity depends more on your skin, age, the number of threads and placement than on the brand alone. Absorbable threads commonly dissolve within months, while the lift and collagen effect is often cited as lasting around 12 to 18 months. Your doctor will give a realistic estimate after assessing your face. Results vary by individual.

Can threads be combined with Ultherapy?

Yes, many plans combine them. Threads reposition tissue immediately, while micro-focused ultrasound builds collagen over months. The doctor decides the order and spacing, since energy treatments are sometimes done before threads or after the threads have settled. This is discussed during consultation.

Will people notice I had a thread lift?

In the first days, swelling, mild bruising or slight puckering at entry points may be visible. These usually settle within one to two weeks. Once healed, a well-planned thread lift typically looks like a refreshed version of your face rather than an obvious procedure, though individual results vary.

Is a thread lift painful?

Local anesthetic is used, so most patients feel pressure and tugging rather than sharp pain during the procedure. Tenderness and tightness are common for several days afterward and are usually manageable with prescribed or recommended pain relief. Tell the doctor about any medications before taking painkillers.