Thread Lift

What Is a Thread Lift?

A Thread Lift—sometimes called a non-surgical facelift—is a minimally invasive procedure designed to lift and tighten sagging facial skin without surgery or long recovery time. Using biocompatible PDO (polydioxanone) threads, the treatment stimulates collagen production and provides immediate lifting effects that continue to improve over time.

At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, patients often choose a Korean Thread Lift to subtly lift the cheeks, jawline, neck, and brows while maintaining a natural, youthful appearance. It’s ideal for those who want noticeable rejuvenation without the downtime of a surgical facelift.

Why Choose a Thread Lift at CK Plastic Surgery

Dr. K. Charles Kim, M.D., F.A.C.S., a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, is one of Los Angeles’ most trusted experts in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation. His training in Seoul and Beverly Hills allows him to blend Korean beauty techniques with advanced Western aesthetics to deliver balanced, natural results.

Patients prefer CK Plastic Surgery because:

• Procedures are customized for your face shape and aesthetic goals.
• The clinic uses premium PDO and PLLA threads for maximum lift and safety.
• Dr. Kim personally performs every treatment to ensure symmetry and precision.
• You’ll enjoy a comfortable, luxury experience with minimal downtime.

Benefits of a Thread Lift

A Thread Lift provides both instant and long-term rejuvenation. Key benefits include:

• Instant lift to sagging cheeks, jawline, and neck.
• Collagen stimulation for firmer, smoother skin over time.
• No visible scars—threads are placed beneath the skin with micro-injections.
• Minimal downtime compared to a surgical facelift.
• Customizable results that can target the midface, brow, or jowl area.
• Natural-looking outcome that enhances, not alters, your facial features.

Who Should Avoid It?

Thread lift treatments may not be suitable for individuals who:

• Have very thin or highly lax skin that requires surgical tightening.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have active skin infections or inflammatory conditions in the treatment area.
• Have unrealistic expectations of results (threads lift moderately—not dramatically).

Dr. Kim always conducts a thorough evaluation to determine if a thread lift or another treatment (such as Ultherapy or Facetite) best meets your goals.

Ideal Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate for a PDO Thread Lift if you:

• Are between 30 and 55 years old with mild to moderate sagging.
• Want a refreshed look without surgery.
• Prefer subtle, natural rejuvenation over dramatic change.
• Are looking to delay or enhance results from a facelift.

Many patients combine a thread lift with dermal fillers or RF skin tightening for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

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The Procedure: What to Expect

A Thread Lift is performed in-office under local anesthesia and typically takes about 45–60 minutes.

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Consultation: Dr. Kim evaluates your facial structure and discusses your aesthetic goals.
2. Preparation: Local anesthetic is applied to ensure comfort.
3. Thread Insertion: Fine PDO threads are gently inserted beneath the skin using a cannula. These threads anchor and lift sagging tissue upward.
4. Adjustment: Once positioned, Dr. Kim adjusts tension to create natural lift and balance.
5. Completion: Threads dissolve gradually over 6–9 months while stimulating collagen for lasting results.

This technique provides immediate improvement that continues to enhance over the next 3–6 months as collagen builds.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients resume normal activities within 24–48 hours.
Mild swelling or tenderness is normal and typically subsides within a few days.

For the best recovery:

• Avoid strenuous activity and facial massage for one week.
• Sleep on your back for several nights to protect thread placement.
• Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
• Follow Dr. Kim’s aftercare plan carefully for optimal results.

Results last 12–18 months depending on thread type and your body’s natural collagen response.

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Surgery / Service Results

After a Thread Lift, patients enjoy:

• Lifted cheeks and defined jawline.
• Smoother, tighter facial skin.
• Youthful contours with no visible scars.
• Gradual skin improvement over time due to collagen regeneration.

Many describe their appearance as “refreshed,” “firm,” and “naturally youthful.”

FAQs – Thread Lift

How long does a thread lift last?
Results typically last 12 to 18 months, with collagen support extending the benefits.

Is a thread lift painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort thanks to local anesthesia.

Will there be scars?
No—tiny puncture points heal invisibly within days.

When will I see results?
You’ll notice immediate lift, with continued improvement over 2–3 months.

Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes! Thread lifts pair beautifully with fillers, Botox, or microneedling for full-face rejuvenation.

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