Thread Lifting Types Explained — Silhouette, V-Loc, Ultra V, PLLA: What's the Difference?

Thread lifting is a non-surgical lifting procedure in which medical-grade threads that gradually dissolve in the body are inserted under the skin to pull up and secure sagging tissue, while the dissolving process stimulates collagen production. Even within "thread lifting," the characteristics can vary significantly depending on the material and structure of the thread used.

Silhouette Lifting (Silhouette Soft)

This method uses dissolvable threads to reduce burden on the body, with a small amount of hyaluronic acid injected alongside when needed to add volume to the upper portion. A 23G needle (12cm) is used.

V-Loc Lifting

V-Loc is a suture manufactured by Covidien (USA) and is approved by both the US FDA and Korea's KFDA. It is characterized by adjustable thread thickness (6.0 to 2), absorption period (90 days, 180 days, or non-absorbable), and length (up to 60cm). According to manufacturer data, V-Loc 90 has 20 barbs per centimeter, compared to 8 per centimeter for competing products, giving it more anchoring points.

Ultra V Lifting (PDO)

PDO (polydioxanone) is a KFDA-approved medical suture, and the procedure involves inserting threads roughly 0.12mm thick — thinner than a human hair. The threads dissolve gradually over 6 to 9 months, and this dissolving process stimulates collagen production. We generally recommend this to those concerned about sagging cheeks, jawline definition, reduced skin elasticity, and fine lines, and who want a treatment with minimal downtime.

Everline PLLA Thread Lifting

PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) is an FDA-approved biodegradable polymer material that stimulates the body's own collagen regeneration. According to manufacturer data, PLLA threads have roughly 1.5 to 4 times the tensile strength of PDO and are described as providing relatively longer-lasting tissue-restoring effects. However, duration and results vary depending on individual skin condition.

How Do I Choose the Right Thread for Me?

The suitable thread type depends on the degree and location of sagging, your desired duration, and skin thickness. In cases of significant sagging, facelift surgery may be more appropriate than thread lifting, so it's best to decide through an in-person consultation.

You may also enjoy: Facelift Comparison Guide: 3 Types · RF Lifting XERF · About the Director

Consultation Information

Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) · 2F Apgujeong Building, 842 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · 02-3416-0070 (after hours 070-4027-0070) · Book a consultation

This article is provided for informational purposes only, and cites figures based on manufacturer data. Treatment results and duration vary by individual, and temporary bruising or swelling may occur. Whether to proceed with treatment should be decided after consulting a specialist.

Treatment Reference Materials

Below are treatment information materials from our previous website (surgery.co.kr). Before-and-after results may vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry the possibility of side effects.