Is Non-Absorbable Thread Facelift Harmful? Important Considerations Before Choosing

Hello, recently, doctors have noticed that many clients are concerned about whether non-absorbable thread facelifts are harmful, especially after hearing advertisements claiming “permanent results” from some aesthetic clinics. In reality, the use of non-absorbable threads in aesthetics is a very important issue because it directly relates to the body’s biological reactions and the risk of long-term complications. The doctor will provide a detailed analysis so you can clearly understand the nature of this type of thread, as well as safer modern skin rejuvenation options.

Is a Non-Absorbable Thread Facelift Harmful?

The doctor’s direct answer is: Facelift with non-absorbable threads is harmful – and currently, this method is no longer recommended in modern aesthetic medicine.

The reason is that non-absorbable threads are surgical threads that do not naturally dissolve inside the body, commonly used for internal organ suturing or deep tissue fixation where there is minimal movement. However, when used on the face – an area containing many nerves, blood vessels, and constantly active muscles – non-absorbable threads can lead to serious risks.

Possible complications of non-absorbable thread facelifts include:

• Chronic inflammatory reactions: The body recognizes the threads as foreign objects, resulting in prolonged inflammation, swelling, pain, or lump formation.

• Thread exposure and skin distortion: After months or years, the threads may gradually protrude from the tissue, causing uneven skin texture and facial deformities.

• Infection and pus accumulation: When the threads are not biologically compatible with tissue, bacteria can easily penetrate and cause deep infections.

• Difficulty removing the threads: Because the threads adhere tightly to muscle tissue, removal is highly complicated and may damage nerves or leave fibrotic scars.

From a professional perspective, major aesthetic associations such as ASAPS (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) and ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) both recommend against the use of non-absorbable threads for facial aesthetic procedures, especially in thin tissue areas such as the cheeks, temples, and neck.

Therefore, if you are considering this method, the doctor advises against undergoing non-absorbable thread facelift procedures even if they are advertised as “permanent” or “maintenance-free.” In this case, “permanent” may also mean “permanent risks” to facial muscles and nerves.

Comparison Between Non-Absorbable and Absorbable Thread Facelifts

To help you better understand, the doctor will compare these two types of threads from a medical perspective:

As can be seen, absorbable threads (such as PDO, PCL, PLLA, or collagen threads) are much safer and more effective choices. They not only lift facial tissue but also stimulate endogenous collagen production, resulting in naturally firmer and more youthful skin without surgical intervention.

Safe and Effective Facelift Methods at Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital

If you want sustainable, safe, and scientifically proven skin rejuvenation, the doctor recommends choosing methods with long-term effectiveness that are approved by the Ministry of Health and currently applied at Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital – a pioneer in advanced facial rejuvenation.

Currently, Gangwhoo applies many exclusive facelift technologies depending on the degree of aging:

SMAS 4K Facelift – Exclusive Technology at Gangwhoo

This is an advanced facelift method that thoroughly addresses sagging skin, wrinkles, and excess skin. Doctors use a Harmonic scalpel combined with 4K endoscopic microsurgery techniques to precisely dissect the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) – the layer responsible for facial firmness.
Advantages:

• Completely smooths wrinkles and lifts facial tissue without creating an unnatural tight appearance.

• Minimizes swelling and bruising, with recovery up to 50% faster than conventional surgery.

• Rejuvenation results can last 10–15 years.

Deep Plane Facelift – Comprehensive Rejuvenation

Deep Plane is currently one of the most advanced techniques, targeting both deep muscles and connective tissue layers. This method not only “pulls the skin” but also “lifts the structure,” restoring facial contours in the most natural way possible.
It is suitable for individuals over 40 years old, those with severe skin sagging, or those who previously underwent thread lifting without satisfactory results.

Absorbable Collagen & Firin Nano Thread Lifting

This is a non-surgical rejuvenation method using premium absorbable threads to lift facial tissue and stimulate collagen production. The results last 2–3 years and are very suitable for younger individuals who want to slow down aging.

All techniques at Gangwhoo are performed by doctors directly trained in Korea, with the support of robotic arms and international-standard sterile operating rooms, ensuring absolute safety and long-lasting rejuvenation results.

If you are wondering whether non-absorbable thread facelifts are harmful, the doctor’s answer is yes – and the dangers can persist for many years afterward. A safer solution is to use biological absorbable threads or choose SMAS 4K or Deep Plane facelift technologies – methods proven to be effective and safe, currently applied at Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital.

If you need direct consultation and skin assessment from a doctor, visit Gangwhoo Cosmetic Hospital for skin analysis and a personalized rejuvenation treatment plan to help you regain firm, youthful, and naturally beautiful skin.