# Thread Lifting: Understanding the Principles, Duration, and Types of Absorbable Threads for Skin Elasticity > Category: treatment-guide > Published: 2026-07-09 07:00:24.185067+00 > Source: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog/thread-lifting-principles-duration-and-types What is Thread Lifting?Thread lifting is a procedure that involves inserting medical threads beneath the skin to physically lift sagging skin tissue and induce collagen production around the inserted threads, thereby improving skin elasticity. It is primarily applied for wrinkle improvement, lifting sagging cheeks, or defining the jawline.How Does Thread Lifting Improve Skin Elasticity?The principles of thread lifting can be broadly divided into two categories:Physical Lifting Effect: The barbs (cogs) or knots on the threads inserted beneath the skin support and pull up the skin tissue, providing an immediate lifting effect. This can help improve skin sagging caused by gravity.Collagen Regeneration Induction: The inserted threads trigger a foreign body reaction, stimulating fibroblasts in the surrounding tissue, which in turn promotes the production of new collagen and elastin. This process gradually improves skin elasticity and density and can contribute to maintaining elasticity for a certain period even after the threads have dissolved.Through these combined actions, thread lifting can help improve skin sagging and make the overall facial contour more defined. Before the procedure, it is crucial to have a thorough consultation with a medical professional to discuss your skin condition and expected outcomes.How Long Does the Effect of Thread Lifting Last?The duration of thread lifting effects can vary depending on various factors such as the type of thread used, individual skin condition, lifestyle habits, treatment area, and procedure method. Generally, for lifting procedures using absorbable threads, it may take approximately 6 months to 1 year for the threads to be completely absorbed within the skin. However, even after the threads dissolve, the collagen tissue generated around them can help maintain the elasticity improvement effect for a certain period.In most cases, the effects of thread lifting are known to last for about 1 to 2 years. However, individual variations are significant, so it is advisable to consult with a medical professional before the procedure for a detailed explanation regarding the exact duration. Periodic maintenance may also be necessary to sustain the effects.What Types of Absorbable Threads Are Used in Thread Lifting?The threads used in thread lifting are primarily 'absorbable threads' that are harmless to the human body and naturally decompose over time. The representative types of absorbable threads are as follows:PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads: One of the most commonly used threads, it completely decomposes in the body within approximately 6 months to 1 year. It is manufactured in various forms (mono threads, cog threads, etc.) and used for multiple purposes such as lifting, elasticity improvement, and wrinkle reduction. It has the effect of promoting collagen production around the thread.PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) Threads: With a longer decomposition period than PDO threads, it can remain in the body for approximately 1 year and 6 months to 2 years. Its excellent collagen induction effect can help with long-term elasticity improvement. It is the same substance as the main component of Sculptra.PCL (Polycaprolactone) Threads: Known to have an even longer decomposition period than PLLA threads, it can remain in the body for over 2 years. Its excellent elasticity and flexibility allow for natural movement while providing a strong lifting effect. It also has superior collagen induction effects.MINTS™ Threads: MINTS™ threads are a type of PDO thread characterized by 360-degree spirally arranged cogs (barbs). These cogs strongly support the skin tissue, focusing on maximizing the lifting effect. They are known to have superior tensile strength compared to general cog threads and can effectively pull up sagging skin to help improve facial contours.Since each type of thread has different characteristics, effects, and durations, it is important to consult with a medical professional to choose the most suitable thread type for your skin condition and desired results. After the procedure, following the medical staff's guidance for appropriate post-care will help maintain the treatment's effectiveness.This article provides general medical information and does not substitute for individual diagnosis and treatment. Decisions regarding specific procedures or treatments must be made through thorough consultation with a medical professional.Clinics with Registered Procedure InformationGangnam Laren Clinic (Gangnam-gu) — Registered Procedure: Thread LiftingMiandmi Clinic Centum Branch (Haeundae-gu) — Registered Procedure: Thread LiftingHosu Clinic (Hanam-si) — Registered Procedure: Thread LiftingHealing Clinic (Yongin Suji-gu) — Registered Procedure: Thread LiftingListed in alphabetical order and not a ranking or medical recommendation. Procedure information is based on content registered by each clinic. (Source: Keudeomjip) ## Related Resources - Blog post: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog/thread-lifting-principles-duration-and-types - All guides: https://kdermzip.com/en/blog - K-DermZip: https://kdermzip.com