Thread Lift as a Medical Tourist in Seoul: Makeup, Exercise and Flying After Treatment

What a Thread Lift Does

Which of these applies may vary with the patient’s skin condition and the aim of treatment, and the doctor decides.

A thread lift is a treatment that inserts special medical threads into the skin layers to physically support and lift sagging tissue. It can be considered even when the face has little fat. However, the type and number of threads and where they are placed should be decided carefully after checking skin thickness, elasticity and volume. It is important to plan for a natural contour that fits your facial structure rather than too much pulling. The doctor discusses your goals and examines your skin to tailor the treatment. The plan prioritizes lift while maintaining a look that matches your facial structure.

Aftercare for Short Stays

Pressure or a pulling feeling may be felt during treatment, and temporary stiffness, tightness or a sense of something under the skin may appear afterward. How it feels and how recovery goes vary from person to person. If you have an important event or photo shoot coming up, leave extra time in your travel schedule. You can organize the rest of your day around light meals and restful time. Quiet indoor plans near your hotel can make the first day more comfortable. Some visitors prefer gentle pacing and minimal facial movement as they get used to the sensation.

Common Reactions

Temporary swelling, bruising, mild tightness or a sense of something under the skin may be felt, but they usually ease gradually within 1 to 2 weeks.

Which of these applies may vary with the patient’s skin condition and the aim of treatment, and the doctor decides.

Serious Side Effects

Rarely, temporary pain or stiffness may occur, and it eases naturally over time.

Common Situations and Concerns

Many travelers plan tight itineraries between the airport, appointments, and departure. Building in a few hours of flexibility can reduce stress on the day. You can keep your plans simple around Gangnam or Cheongdam while you monitor how you feel. Entire medical team is committed to ensuring that you feel comfortable and at ease throughout your consultation and treatment. Light grooming is usually enough to look presentable for airport check-in. Save intense workouts for later and keep your schedule calm while you settle in after treatment. A relaxed pace helps if you are navigating unfamiliar streets or handling luggage. Plan short, nearby activities and adjust based on how you feel that day.

About Min Clinic

Min Clinic is registered as a dermatology clinic. Three doctors practice at the clinic, and two of them are board-certified specialists. Dr. Min Young-Soo is an adjunct professor at Hanyang University and was formerly deputy director of NB Clinic, Gangnam Station branch. At Min Clinic, all medical aesthetic procedures are performed directly by a doctor.

Anesthetic cream is used. Normal daily activities are generally possible right after treatment. The treatment takes about 1 hour. An interval of 6 months between treatments is recommended. Changes may begin to appear from as early as 2 to 4 weeks after treatment. At about 1 to 3 months, a more natural and defined lifting effect can be seen. Face washing and light makeup are possible from the day of treatment. Avoid rubbing the treated area too much or having a strong massage. Temporary swelling, bruising, mild tightness or a sense of something under the skin may be felt, but they usually ease gradually within 1 to 2 weeks. It is best to avoid saunas, alcohol and strenuous exercise for about 1 week after treatment. Rarely, temporary pain or stiffness may occur, and it eases naturally over time. A thread lift is a treatment that inserts special medical threads into the skin layers to physically support and lift sagging tissue. It can be considered even when the face has little fat. However, the type and number of threads and where they are placed should be decided carefully after checking skin thickness, elasticity and volume. It is important to plan for a natural contour that fits your facial structure rather than too much pulling. Anesthesia is given before treatment to reduce discomfort. Pressure or a pulling feeling may be felt during treatment, and temporary stiffness, tightness or a sense of something under the skin may appear afterward. How it feels and how recovery goes vary from person to person.

Prices are the same for Korean and international patients. VAT is charged separately at the applicable statutory rate. Same-day treatment may be possible depending on appointment availability and the doctor's schedule. Patients are asked to contact the clinic during the recovery period with any questions or discomfort. Min Clinic does not perform medical aesthetic procedures, including thread lift, during pregnancy. Skincare treatments may be available after consultation. Patients under 19 may be treated with the consent of a parent or guardian. Upon request, treatment records can be provided as a detailed medical statement.

WhatsApp messages are answered during clinic hours, and the clinic responds as promptly as possible. Inquiries can be made through WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, WeChat and email. English-, Chinese-, and Japanese-speaking staff are available on-site to assist foreign visitors. Min Clinic is open Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 19:00, Friday from 10:00 to 20:00 and Saturday from 10:00 to 15:00, with a lunch break from 13:00 to 14:00 on weekdays, and the clinic is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, UnionPay and JCB cards are accepted, as are Apple Pay, WeChat Pay and Alipay. PayPal is not accepted, cash is accepted in Korean won only, and payment may be split across two cards with no card surcharge. Parking is available in the Daedong Tower building, and valet parking is offered for a fee. If you need to change or cancel an appointment, please contact the clinic in advance. In accordance with Korean tax law, VAT refunds for cosmetic medical services provided to foreign visitors are no longer available for treatments received on or after January 1, 2026.

Getting Here

Exit 5 of Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Suin-Bundang Line) is the nearest exit to the clinic at 4F, Daedong Tower, 326 Dosan-daero. From Exit 5 it is about 5–10 minutes on foot. The building stands at Hakdong Intersection, with an Olive Young store on the ground floor. At Gangnam-gu Office Station (Line 7 and Suin-Bundang Line), leave by Exit 3 or 3-1. From Exit 3 or 3-1 it is about 7 minutes on foot. Parking fees can be confirmed with the clinic.

Frequently asked questions

Can you fly home soon after treatment in Seoul?

Plan your flight with a comfortable schedule, and ask your doctor if you have specific concerns. Build in time for check-in and rest so you are not rushed.

How long does a thread lift appointment take on the day?

The treatment takes about 1 hour.

What should you avoid doing to your face after a thread lift in Gangnam?

Avoid rubbing the treated area too much or having a strong massage.

Will anesthesia be used during a thread lift?

Anesthetic cream is used. Anesthesia is given before treatment to reduce discomfort.

When will you start to see results if you return home to another country?

Changes may begin to appear from as early as 2 to 4 weeks after treatment. At about 1 to 3 months, a more natural and defined lifting effect can be seen. Which of these applies may vary with the patient’s skin condition and the aim of treatment, and the doctor decides.