Korea leads the world in thread lifting technology, using advanced materials that lift, tighten, and stimulate collagen. The three major thread types—PDO, PLLA, and PCL—each work differently and offer unique benefits.

If you’re considering a thread lift in Korea, this guide explains exactly what each type does, how long it lasts, and which one is right for your skin concerns.

What Are PDO, PLLA, and PCL Threads?

All three thread types are biodegradable, absorbable materials used in non-surgical lifting.
Their differences lie in:

• Strength and lifting ability
• Longevity
• Collagen stimulation
• Thickness and flexibility
• Best treatment areas

Let’s break them down simply.

PDO Threads (Polydioxanone)

Overview

PDO is the most commonly used thread type in Korea. It is thin, versatile, and ideal for both lifting and skin tightening.

What PDO Threads Do

• Lift mild to moderate sagging
• Tighten loose skin
• Stimulate collagen production
• Improve jawline, cheeks, and lower face definition

Pros

• Safe, well-studied material
• Strong initial lifting
• Lower cost compared to PLLA and PCL
• Works well for beginners or first-time thread lift clients

How Long PDO Lasts

• Dissolves in 4–6 months
• Lifting effect lasts up to 12 months due to collagen formation

Best For

• Early sagging
• Jawline V-line contouring
• Under-eye or neck tightening with softer PDO variations

PLLA Threads (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

Overview

PLLA threads offer strong collagen stimulation and are designed for longer-lasting results. They are slightly thicker and more rigid than PDO.

What PLLA Threads Do

• Provide gradual lifting
• Improve elasticity and firmness
• Reduce deeper wrinkles
• Enhance skin density

Pros

• Long-lasting rejuvenation
• Strong collagen-building effect
• Great for people with moderate skin laxity

How Long PLLA Lasts

• Dissolves in 12–18 months
• Lifting effect can last 18–24 months

Best For

• People in their 30s–50s
• Moderate sagging
• Deep nasolabial folds or jawline heaviness
• Patients wanting a longer-lasting result

PCL Threads (Polycaprolactone)

Overview

PCL threads are the newest and most long-lasting Korean thread type, offering excellent elasticity and slow absorption.

What PCL Threads Do

• Provide a strong, stable lift
• Deliver the longest collagen stimulation
• Improve overall firmness, elasticity, and skin quality

Pros

• Longest-lasting results
• Smooth, flexible thread material
• Excellent for facial contouring and lifting

How Long PCL Lasts

• Dissolves in 24–36 months
• Lifting effect can last up to 3 years

Best For

• Mature skin
• Moderate to advanced sagging
• People wanting the most durable result

How to Choose: PDO vs PLLA vs PCL

Choose PDO if you want:

• A beginner-friendly lift
• Lower downtime
• A gentle first step into thread lifting
• Good results for mild sagging

Choose PLLA if you want:

• Strong collagen stimulation
• A longer-lasting tightening effect
• Improvement in deeper wrinkles or folds

Choose PCL if you want:

• The longest-lasting lift
• Strong support for sagging tissue
• A premium, advanced result

Do Korean Clinics Mix Thread Types?

Yes — and this is one of the reasons Korean lifts look natural.

Many clinics combine PDO + PLLA + PCL in one session for:

• Instant lift (PDO)
• Long-term tightening (PLLA)
• Deep structural support (PCL)

This layered technique gives both immediate and durable results.

What About Cog Threads vs Mono Threads?

Cog Threads

• Barbed threads used for lifting
• Most lifting power
• Commonly PDO, PLLA, or PCL

Mono Threads

• Smooth threads used for tightening
• Great for fine wrinkles or skin texture
• Found mostly in PDO form

Both can be mixed to target lifting + skin quality at the same time.

Final Verdict

PDO = Best for beginners and mild sagging

PLLA = Best for long-lasting tightening and skin quality

PCL = Best for maximum lifting strength and durability

Korean thread lifts work best when choosing the right material for your age, skin condition, and desired results.