Double Chin Thread Lift: Is pulling all it takes? What you need to know for better results

Double chin thread lifting is a non-surgical procedure that physically pulls up and fixes sagging skin and tissue with threads. The core point is one: it does not remove fat, but rather pulls sagging and drooping tissue back into place to redraw the jawline. Therefore, it is well-suited for cases where skin elasticity has decreased and the area under the chin has become ambiguously blurred.

However, it does not work the same way for all double chins. If it is a double chin with thickly accumulated fat, there are clear limits to thread lifting alone, and other approaches must be considered together. In this article, we will step-by-step examine how far thread lifting can actually go, the types of threads and their duration, side effects, and what the right choice is for your double chin.

🧵 How exactly does double chin thread lifting work?

Thread lifting is a method of inserting specially processed threads under the skin to hang, pull, and then fix sagging tissue. Here, **Cog/Barb Threads**, which have barbs on the surface of the thread, play a key role. Like the barb of a fishhook, they hook and secure the tissue, holding the pulled-up line so that it does not easily slip back.

On the other hand, smooth threads without barbs (mono threads) are closer to improving elasticity rather than pulling force. Therefore, in practice, they often divide roles by pulling with cog threads and reinforcing the texture with mono threads.

The depth at which the thread enters also determines the result. If it is too shallow, the skin may pucker or the thread may show through, and if it is too deep, the grip is weak, reducing the effect. Therefore, the key is to place it precisely between the subcutaneous fat layer and the SMAS layer (superficial muscular aponeurotic system), where the cogs can catch properly.

Added to this is collagen remodeling. When the thread is inserted, the tissue triggers a mild inflammatory and fibrotic response, and in this process, new collagen is generated, gradually improving skin elasticity over several months. In other words, the immediate lifting effect and the gradually rising elasticity effect work together.

📌 Key Summary: Thread lifting is not about removing fat, but a procedure that pulls and fixes tissue with cog threads and induces elasticity through collagen production.

🔬 PDO, PLLA, and PCL: How do the threads differ?

Absorbable threads used for thread lifting are largely divided into three types. The rate at which they dissolve in the body varies depending on the material, and this difference is directly related to the duration of the effect.

People often ask, "Since PCL lasts the longest, isn't it unconditionally the best?" However, a thread that simply lasts a long time is not the answer for everyone. This is because which thread, how many strands, and in which direction to insert them will vary depending on the skin condition, degree of sagging, and the direction you want to pull.

For reference, non-absorbable threads (such as polypropylene) have long-lasting effects, but when a problem occurs, removal is tricky and there is a burden of long-term side effects, so they must be approached with caution. Whether it is a dissolving thread or a non-dissolving thread is a matter that must be weighed not only in terms of duration but also in terms of safety.

📌 Key Summary: PDO 4-8 months, PLLA 12-18 months, and PCL 18-24 months are the rough standards, and the longest-lasting thread is not necessarily the best.

⏳ How long does the effect last, and is it permanent?

To start with the conclusion, the effect of thread lifting is not permanent. As the thread dissolves, the pulling force also gradually weakens. Generally, it is maintained for 6 months to a year, and up to 18 to 24 months depending on the type of thread, and then gradually decreases.

However, just because the thread has completely dissolved does not mean you return to square one. Thanks to the collagen induced during the procedure, some elasticity may remain compared to before the procedure. Even if the pulling effect of the lifting itself decreases, the skin foundation is maintained in a slightly better condition.

So, many people consider a re-treatment when the effect starts to decrease. Since tissue response according to the re-treatment interval or cumulative number of treatments varies greatly from person to person, repeated treatments should be decided through consultation while monitoring the condition.

📌 Key Summary: The maintenance period is usually 6 months to 2 years and gradually decreases, but some elasticity may remain due to the collagen effect.

🍖 Is thread lifting effective for a fatty double chin?

Many misunderstandings arise here. There is not just one cause of a double chin. Subcutaneous fat accumulation, skin elasticity loss, platysma muscle sagging, lower jaw skeletal structure, and posture problems like forward head posture are complexly intertwined.

Thread lifting has a strength in sagging skin and tissue among these. Conversely, if it is a fatty double chin with a lot of fat under the chin, even if pulled with threads, the thick volume itself remains, limiting the effect.

In this case, a different approach is taken.

• Fat dissolving injections (Deoxycholic acid): A direction of reducing fat non-incisively

• Submental liposuction: Fat removal is the primary goal (incisional approach)

• HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) / High-Frequency RF: Reinforcing elasticity and contour with non-invasive energy

At Onlif, we first consider non-surgical approaches from a dermatological perspective rather than surgeries that involve a knife. If elasticity-type sagging is the main cause, we use thread lifting or ultrasound/high-frequency lifting, and if fat is mixed in, we coordinate the order of fat-reducing treatments and elasticity treatments.

If the chin itself is receded (micrognathia/retrognathia), the reference point of the line can be supplemented with chin fillers or implants. The important thing is that if the cause is different, the solution must also be different.

📌 Key Summary: For a fatty double chin, the effect of thread lifting alone is limited, and it is realistic to design fat reduction procedures or energy lifting together.

📐 What are the criteria for a good jawline?

It is not just vaguely "sharp," but there are criteria referred to aesthetically. It is the cervicomental angle, which is the angle formed by the neck and the jawline.

Generally, a range of about 105 to 120 degrees is considered the ideal neck-jawline angle. As this angle becomes obtuse, the submental area looks blurred, and as it is properly defined, the profile line becomes clearer. Keeping this standard in mind when designing allows us to set a target line and approach it, rather than just pulling blindly.

The procedure time is usually around 20 to 60 minutes, and it is generally performed under local anesthesia. The number of threads is often around 4 to 10 strands per side, but there is no standard number.

Rather, we should be wary of the idea that the more threads inserted, the better. If excessive, the possibility of dimpling, foreign body sensation, and inflammation increases. The key is not the number, but delicate placement in the correct layer and location.

📌 Key Summary: The ideal neck-jawline angle is 105–120 degrees, and the correct location and direction design, rather than the number of threads, determine the outcome.

⚠️ Side effects and safety: What must you know?

Just because it is non-surgical does not mean there are no risks. Representative known reactions are as follows.

• Dimpling: Skin depression that occurs when thread depth or tension control goes awry. One of the most common side effects

• Thread showing through, asymmetry, foreign body sensation

• Infection, inflammatory nodules

There is an anatomical point to be particularly careful about. The marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve passes through the jawline area, and if this nerve is damaged, the movement of the corners of the mouth can be affected. Therefore, jawline procedures are an area that must be handled with a precise understanding of anatomical structures.

If you notice signs different from usual, such as bruising or skin color turning abnormally pale, dark red, or black after the procedure, do not endure it and seek medical attention. Also, if you have a keloid constitution, diabetes, immunocompromised state, or are pregnant/breastfeeding, you must inform us of your condition before the procedure.

Pre- and post-procedure care is also important. Aspirin, Omega-3, Vitamin E, and anticoagulants can increase the risk of bruising, so if you are taking them, adjustment in advance is necessary. For 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure, it is recommended to avoid alcohol, saunas, strenuous exercise, opening the mouth wide, and hard foods.

Ultimately, what separates results and safety is the skill of the practitioner. This is also why Onlif emphasizes "delicately in the correct position" rather than the number of threads. The advantages of non-surgical procedures can only be realized when supported by a specialized doctor system that focuses on the procedures they perform best in each field, the use of genuine products and correct quantities, and an infection prevention system.

📌 Key Summary: As there is a risk of dimpling and nerve damage, anatomical understanding and skill are the keys to safety, and care before and after the procedure is also important.

🗓️ What is the recovery process after the procedure?

The recovery progress is generally predictable.

• Swelling and bruising: Usually eases within 3 to 14 days

• Tightness and foreign body sensation: Gradually subsides within 1 to 4 weeks

• Opening the mouth wide / hard food: Recommended to refrain for the first 1 to 2 weeks

The initial feeling of tightness is close to a signal that the thread is holding the tissue. It becomes natural over time, so there is no need to worry excessively, but if pain or swelling persists for a long time or worsens, it is good to have it checked.

Postures like forward head posture are factors that make the double chin stand out again. It is worth remembering that even if the line is cleaned up through the procedure, daily posture and weight management affect the maintenance of results.

📌 Key Summary: Swelling and bruising ease in about 2 weeks, tightness eases within 1 to 4 weeks, and posture and weight management help maintain the results.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does double chin thread lifting also remove fat?

No. Thread lifting is a procedure that pulls and fixes sagging tissue and does not directly remove fat. If you have a double chin with a lot of fat, it is effective to consider fat dissolving injections or fat reduction procedures together.

How long does the effect last?

Generally, it is maintained for 6 months to a year, and up to 18 to 24 months depending on the type of thread, and then gradually decreases. It is not permanent, but some elasticity may remain due to the collagen production effect.

Which thread is better among PDO, PLLA, and PCL?

The absorption period is about 4 to 8 months for PDO, about 12 to 18 months for PLLA, and about 18 to 24 months for PCL. A long-lasting thread is not unconditionally good, and making a choice tailored to your skin condition and degree of sagging is important.

Does inserting more threads produce a better effect?

No, it does not. Inserting excessive threads rather increases the possibility of unevenness, foreign body sensation, and inflammation. The delicateness of hooking in the correct layer and location, rather than the number, determines the outcome.

What should I do if dimpling (skin depression) occurs?

Dimpling is a common reaction that occurs when thread depth or tension control goes awry, and in many cases, it resolves over time. If it persists or is severe, you must get checked at the clinic where you received the procedure.

Does the effect disappear if I gain weight or have forward head posture?

Weight gain can mask the effect by increasing volume under the chin, and postures like forward head posture also make the double chin stand out again. Posture correction and weight management help maintain the results.

Can I have an MRI or dental treatment after the procedure?

Absorbable threads generally do not cause major problems, but it is safe to inform medical staff of your thread lifting procedure history before an MRI scan or dental treatment.

Double chin thread lifting: things to check before choosing a clinic

Even for the same procedure, the results and recovery process vary depending on where, by whom, and how it is performed. Asking these items directly during consultation will help you make a judgment.

• Is it a place that performs that procedure frequently? — Each clinic has different main procedures they handle. Check if it is a place that regularly performs double chin thread lifting.

• Can I check the products and equipment used? — Ask if you can check the product name and whether it is genuine (whether it is an imported licensed product, and if there is an opening confirmation procedure) during the consultation.

• Do they explain the cost breakdown? — Rather than just hearing the total amount, you need to hear an explanation of what product is used, how much, and in which area to make a judgment.

• Do they design looking at the entire face? — Even for the same procedure, the location and amount placed vary depending on face shape, skin condition, and left-right asymmetry.

• Do they explain adverse reactions and the recovery process first? — A place that informs you of possible adverse reactions and how to cope with them, rather than a consultation that only talks about expected changes, is better for making a judgment.

• Is there a way to follow up after the procedure? — Check if the time to check the progress, how to contact if there is an issue, and the criteria for a return visit are set.

This is how Onlif Clinic performs double chin thread lifting

• We divide responsibilities — With the idea that one doctor does not handle all procedures, Onlif divides medical treatments by assigning responsible doctors to each field.

• We verify products and equipment together during the consultation — We guide you through the products used and the opening confirmation process during the consultation.

• Costs are guided along with the breakdown after diagnosis — Since the area, volume, and scope vary from person to person, we explain what costs how much together.

• We design looking at the balance of the entire face — We view the face through three axes: texture, balance, and signals of youth, and establish a plan to clean up parts that mask the natural impression rather than changing the shape.

• We tell you about adverse reactions and the recovery process first — Along with expected changes, we guide you through individual differences, possible adverse reactions, and countermeasures before the procedure.

• We review the progress together after the procedure — If verification is needed during the recovery period, we guide you on return visits and contact channels.

If you are considering double chin thread lifting, it is better to first check what is possible and what is difficult in your current condition. An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can only be determined through an in-person medical examination. Please verify through a consultation at Gangnam Onlif Clinic.