Thread Lift

Thread Lifting | SMAS Fixation Mitam Lifting - Beautiful Mitam Clinic
Beautiful Mitam Clinic Thread Lifting | Incision-Free SMAS Fixation (Mitam Lifting)
Thread lifting is not about “pulling”—it’s a process of “securely fixing” sagging in a safe way.

A technique that fixes down to the SMAS layer without an incision,
and a natural, safe lifting plan—this is what matters most.

Hello, I’m Dr. Kim Gwangtae, Medical Director of Beautiful Mitam Clinic in Myeongdong.
Over the past 22 years, I’ve met patients through roughly 100,000 procedures.
Whether you spend 10,000 won, 100,000 won, or 1,000,000 won and more—my belief is to do my absolute best for every patient and deliver satisfying results.

22 Years of Experience Design based on accumulated clinical practice
100,000+ Cases Experience and predictability
Presented 2005.05 Korea’s first incision-free SMAS fixation
Mitam’s Clinical Principles
We don’t aim for an “overly pulled, obviously different” look—we design for a naturally refined contour.
For safety, we prioritize anatomical layers, fixation points, and the recovery process.
Mitam Lifting SMAS Fixation No Incision SMAS Design Natural Contours

If You’re Worried About Thread Lifting Side Effects

There is no such thing as “absolutely safe,” but there are principles that reduce risk.

Why do side-effect cases happen?

Some people get thread lifting before a wedding, but instead of looking better, they experience visible thread lines or shadowing on the face.
This can happen when the treatment area, skin thickness, thread position (layer), tension direction, or fixation plan is mismatched.
That’s why Mitam focuses less on “pulling hard” and more on fixing naturally in a safe anatomical layer.

⚠️ In medical procedures, claiming “absolute safety” can be risky.
However, even with differences in constitution/skin type/post-procedure care, following core principles can help reduce risk.

Six Principles Mitam Established

  • Whenever possible, an incision-free procedure
  • A procedure that can be reversed if an issue occurs
  • A design with a low chance of serious complications
  • A procedure with fast recovery
  • An approach with relatively reliable results
  • An approach possible without sleep/general anesthesia

Korea’s First Presentation of “Incision-Free SMAS Fixation”

Research aimed at improving longevity while reducing burden

The limitations of “lifting without fixation”

In the past, many thread lifting methods in Korea skipped the fixation step, which often led to relatively short-lasting results.
On the other hand, traditional “SMAS fixation” techniques tended to last longer, but required a scalp incision (about 5 cm)—a significant burden.
Mitam Lifting began as research to improve the trade-offs of both approaches.

Mitam Lifting
A method refined through extensive clinical experience and technical improvements so that the SMAS layer can be safely fixed even without an incision.

Key Differentiators (Summary)

Comparison Point Mitam Lifting Approach
Incision burden Designed to avoid incisions when possible (decided after consultation based on condition)
Fixation design Prioritizes “fixation points/direction” to improve longevity
Natural look Aims for refined contours rather than excessive tension
Recovery Reduces unnecessary intervention to lower recovery burden
💡 What matters more than “the number of threads” is which layer, in what direction, and what to fix.

The Key That Determines Results: The SMAS Layer

Accurate layers and safe approaches determine outcomes

A more important question than “How many threads?”

Patients often ask:
“Doctor, how many threads would be right for me? How often should I do this?”

But the effectiveness of thread lifting is not determined by the number of threads or the interval.
To improve satisfaction, the key is a plan that hooks and fixes onto the SMAS layer.

⚠️ If you go too deep under the SMAS, there may be a risk of nerve/blood vessel injury.
That’s why choosing the correct location (layer) and anatomical knowledge are critically important.

Why experience and expertise matter

The SMAS is known to be a thin layer at around 4.5 mm beneath the skin (varies by individual), so without sufficient experience it can be difficult to target accurately, and results may be limited.
In the end, the difference in outcome depends less on “how many threads” and more on how experienced the doctor is and how deep their anatomical understanding is.

✅ During consultation, Mitam first evaluates skin type/thickness/sagging patterns and then advises
whether thread lifting is advantageous—or if fillers/devices may be better for you.
SMAS Fixation Points Anatomy-Based Design Avoid Overcorrection

Thread Lifting Results: Why Thread Material Matters

PDO / PCL / PLLA (Longevity varies by individual)

Immediate changes + recovery burden

Unlike HIFU or RF treatments, thread lifting often shows visible changes right after the procedure, and compared to incisional surgery, it has advantages such as no scarring and faster recovery.
However, the sense of longevity can vary depending on the type of thread.


PDO / PCL Feature Summary

Type Key Features (Summary)
PDO Because it remains in the body for a relatively shorter time, the tension may feel like it lasts about 3–4 months (varies by individual).
PCL Remains in the body for 18–24 months, and even after it dissolves, fibrosis/collagen formation may persist and help long-term maintenance (varies by individual).
✅ Key point: Thread lifting is not necessarily a “one-and-done” procedure.
Depending on your condition, periodic maintenance may help prevent sagging and support stable results.

Recommended Maintenance Interval (Example)

In the beginning, 2–3 times per year, and later about once per year, may help prevent sagging and maintain stability (depends on your individual condition).

Before/After Cases

Swipe left/right to move through photos (manual swipe)

Thread Lifting Before/After

Thread lifting before/after 1
Thread lifting before/after 2
Thread lifting before/after 3

The before/after photos on this page are examples to help understanding, and results may vary depending on an individual’s skin condition/structure/tissue response/treatment plan.

Mitam Standards

We look at “layers/fixation/direction” before “number of threads.”

Why can results differ even with the same thread lifting?

Even using the same threads, thread lifting does not produce identical results.
That’s because every face differs in skin thickness, fat distribution, sagging direction, and muscle use.
Mitam focuses not on “pulling,” but on fixation design, first planning which layer, which direction, and which points to secure first.

✔ 22 years of experience / 100,000+ procedures
✔ Korea’s first presentation of incision-free SMAS fixation thread lifting (2005.05)
✔ Principle-driven design to reduce overcorrection/unevenness/visible thread lines

Recommended Candidates (Example)

In general, people with some facial volume—typically in their late 30s to 50s— often report good satisfaction with lifting (varies by individual). Exact indications will be guided after consultation.

Sagging Prevention Refined Contours Minimized Recovery Burden Customized Design

What Patients Often Say

Not exaggerated—phrases we actually hear in clinic

“It doesn’t look overly pulled—my facial lines just look more refined.”

Results may vary by individual and treatment plan.

“Recovery was faster than I expected, so it didn’t disrupt my schedule much.”

Swelling/bruising/pain vary by individual.

“After a few weeks, it looked even more natural.”

Differences may occur during the tissue adaptation process.

Frequently Asked Questions

The points people most commonly check before treatment

It varies depending on thread type (PDO/PCL/PLLA), fixation design, personal metabolism/skin condition/lifestyle. PCL can remain in the body longer, so the sense of longevity may last longer, but results vary by individual.
We can’t claim “absolute safety,” but accurate layer selection (anatomy), fixation point/direction design, avoiding overcorrection, and following post-care guidance can help reduce risk.
There is no single “correct” number. We first determine fixation points and overall design based on face shape, sagging direction, skin thickness, and your desired change, then decide the necessary quantity and type.
If you start after sagging becomes severe, satisfaction can drop regardless of the device used. Many consider the late 40s to early 50s ideal, and for prevention, some consider starting in the late 30s (depends on individual condition).
Right after the procedure, it’s best to avoid strong massage/pressure and excessive drinking/saunas/intense exercise for a period of time. Bruising/swelling/tightness vary by individual and are usually temporary. Detailed guidance is provided individually after the procedure.

Consultation / Booking

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💡 A thread lifting plan varies depending on “the cause (sagging direction) + skin condition + desired change.”
During consultation, we’ll organize priorities and guide you toward the most natural direction.


Explore our clients' before and after results

Mitam's Thread Lift

Surgical-level lifting

without surgery. Longer lasting, more natural.  


Mitam Clinic is a pioneer in thread lifting, and was the first in Korea 

to introduce the “Double Fascia Fixation Technique.”


Thread lifting is a non-surgical procedure that lifts sagging skin by inserting dissolvable medical threads into the deeper layers of the skin, offering visible lifting without incisions.


Mitam’s unique Double Fascia Fixation method goes beyond traditional thread lifts by anchoring the threads at two fascia levels, allowing for deeper, more secure lifting and results that last 2 to 3 times longer than standard techniques.


Thread Lift

Q&A


Q. How is Mitam’s Double Fascia Fixation Thread Lift performed?  


A. A small incision (around 5mm) is made inside the scalp, through which the threads are precisely inserted and anchored into the SMAS layer—the most effective layer for lifting.
 This method avoids overly shallow placement that can lead to visible threads and also minimizes the risk of nerve or vascular injury by staying beneath the fascia. The result is a safer, more durable lift. 



Q. What are the effects of the thread lift?  


A. 

  • Lifting of sagging skin across the face
  • Correction of mid-face sagging (cheeks)
  • Enhanced facial contour and volume
  • Brow lifting
  • Improvement of nasolabial folds and marionette lines
  • Sharper jawline and chin contouring
  • Neck lifting and increased skin elasticity



Q. How long do the results last?  


A. Standard thread lifts typically last 6 to 12 months. Even after the threads dissolve, the collagen generated around them continues to support the lifting effect.
 With Mitam’s Double Fascia Fixation technique and proper aftercare, results may last 2 to 3 times longer than average. 



Q. What types of threads are used?  


A. Mitam Clinic offers all major thread types: PDO, PLLA, and PCL.
 The most suitable thread is selected based on your skin condition and desired outcome. We customize every procedure using only certified and clinically safe materials. 



Q. Is thread lifting recommended for younger patients?   


A. Yes. It’s highly recommended for those in their late 20s to early 30s who are starting to experience reduced skin elasticity.
Early thread lifting helps reinforce the skin’s support structure, creating a firmer foundation that resists sagging over time.
 Preventive lifting is more effective and natural than trying to reverse sagging after it becomes prominent. 



Q. Do I need follow-up visits after the procedure? 


A. No follow-up visit is required in most cases. However, you’re always welcome to return if you have any concerns or wish to receive additional care. 



Q. What symptoms can I expect after the procedure? 


A. Common post-treatment symptoms include bruising, swelling, tenderness, dimpling, and a tight sensation.
 These usually subside within 1 to 2 weeks. If you experience persistent discomfort, inflammation, or unusual symptoms, we recommend visiting the clinic for a check-up.