Thread Lift Complication Correction

Cellon Dermatology Clinic, Cheongdam, Seoul — Threads used in lifting dissolve in the skin over time, so complications are relatively uncommon. They do occur, and depth is usually the reason: threads placed too superficially can show through the skin, while threads placed too deep can produce bulging or depression, along with surface irregularity or infection.

What causes each problem

Thread extrusion
A thread placed in the skin layer working its way out as the muscles around the mouth are used.
Depression
Where the fat layer is thick or the thread was placed too superficially, producing a dented appearance.
Asymmetry
Difference in traction between cog threads on either side.
Pain and swelling
Where tissue was substantially disrupted during thread placement.

How Cellon approaches correction

  • Scarring, degree of adhesion, and remaining skin are all considered, and the approach is decided together with the patient.
  • The cause of the specific complication is identified before treatment is selected, rather than applying the same correction to every case.
  • Correction is planned against overall facial balance rather than the problem area in isolation.
  • Disruption to nerve tissue is minimised.
  • Where scarring has resulted, laser treatment can reduce its visibility. Complete disappearance is not promised.
  • Most corrections are performed under local anaesthesia.

Procedure summary

Thread Lift Complication Correction
ItemDetails
AssessmentCause of the complication, thread type and depth if known, elapsed time, and current appearance
AnaesthesiaMost corrections under local anaesthesia
ApproachSelected by cause — removal, repositioning, release, or observation
ScarringLaser treatment can reduce visibility; complete disappearance is not promised
Previous recordsThread type, placement date, and clinic are helpful if known
Realistic goalImprovement and rebalancing, decided with the patient
Suggested stayAssessed per case at consultation
Performed byDr. Kang Seunghoon, board-certified dermatologist and author of thread lifting research

How the procedure works

  1. Consultation — the original procedure, thread type if known, elapsed time, and current appearance are reviewed.
  2. Identification of the specific cause: depth, traction difference, tissue disruption, or infection.
  3. The approach is decided together with the patient, against overall facial balance.
  4. Correction performed, usually under local anaesthesia.
  5. Staged review, with scar treatment where indicated.

Indications and contraindications

Best candidates
Adults with thread extrusion, visible or palpable threads, dimpling, depression, or asymmetry after thread lifting, whether performed at Cellon or elsewhere.
Limited benefit
Where threads have been in place a long time and tissue has remodelled around them, correction is more limited. Scar visibility can be reduced but not always eliminated.
Contraindications
Active infection at the site requires treatment before correction. Pregnancy, bleeding disorder, and certain medications are assessed at consultation.
Side effects
Swelling, bruising, and tenderness after correction. Where threads are removed, temporary loss of the lifting effect. All adverse events should be reported to the clinic.

Frequently asked questions

A thread is coming out through my skin. What should I do?

This should be assessed promptly rather than pulled or cut at home. Extrusion usually reflects placement depth, and the remaining thread needs to be evaluated.

I can see the threads under my skin. Can that be fixed?

Usually. Visibility generally reflects superficial placement. The approach depends on how long ago the threads were placed and how the tissue has responded.

Why did one side end up different from the other?

Difference in traction between cog threads on either side is the usual cause. Correction is planned against overall balance rather than only the affected side.

Will the scar disappear completely?

Laser treatment can reduce its visibility. Cellon does not promise complete disappearance, because that depends on the individual and the original injury.

Is correction done under general anaesthesia?

Most corrections are performed under local anaesthesia. The approach is confirmed at consultation.

I had my thread lift at another clinic. Can you still help?

Yes. Knowing the thread type and placement date helps, but correction proceeds on assessment where records are unavailable.

Regulatory references