Botox vs Thread Lift Which Is Right for You in Seoul?
Two of the most popular non-surgical facial treatments compared head-to-head. RE:BERRY Myeongdong Seoul offers both botox and thread lift procedures, and our board-certified doctors help you choose the right treatment based on your specific concerns, anatomy, and aesthetic goals.
Botox vs Thread Lift: Which Should You Choose?
Botox and thread lifting address fundamentally different concerns. Botox relaxes muscles to reduce wrinkles (forehead lines, crow’s feet) or slim facial contours (jawline, calves). Thread lifting physically repositions sagging tissue for a mechanical lift effect. Choose botox for dynamic wrinkles and muscle-based contouring; choose thread lifting for skin laxity and gravitational sagging. RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers both and frequently combines them.
This is one of the most common questions international patients ask when researching non-surgical facial treatments in Seoul. The confusion is understandable — both botox and thread lifts are injectable treatments performed in a clinic setting, both promise facial improvement, and both avoid surgery. However, they work through entirely different mechanisms and address different problems. Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a neuromodulator that relaxes targeted muscles. It is ideal for dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expression (forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet), muscle-based facial width (masseter jawline slimming), and subtle enhancements like the lip flip. Thread lifting uses absorbable PDO (polydioxanone) or PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) threads inserted under the skin to physically reposition sagging tissue and stimulate collagen production. It is ideal for jowling, mid-face sagging, nasolabial fold deepening, and neck laxity. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, Dr. Seung-Jae Baek frequently recommends combining both treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. For example, the LSCO thread + nose filler + bunny line botox package (₩790,000) combines thread lifting and botox in a single session for optimal facial harmonization. The Perfect V-Line & Firming Care packages offer even more comprehensive options including InMode, Shurink, and energy-based lifting devices. Understanding which treatment — or combination — suits your specific needs requires a professional assessment, which is why RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers complimentary consultations with board-certified doctors who can evaluate your anatomy and recommend the most effective approach. See our complete pricing guide for current rates on all treatments.
Non-Surgical Lifting Results at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
Actual patient results from combination treatments. Individual outcomes may vary.
How Each Treatment Works
Understanding the mechanisms behind botox and thread lifting.
Botox: Muscle Relaxation Mechanism
Botulinum toxin blocks acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, temporarily relaxing targeted muscles. For wrinkles, this smooths expression lines. For jawline slimming, it reduces masseter bulk over 4-8 weeks. Effect is dose-dependent and reversible in 3-6 months. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, Korean micro-dosing technique preserves natural expression while achieving clinical results.
Thread Lift: Mechanical Repositioning
Absorbable PDO or PLLA threads are inserted under the skin using a cannula. Barbed threads grip the subcutaneous tissue and physically reposition it upward, creating an immediate lifting effect. Over 2-6 months, the threads stimulate new collagen production around themselves before dissolving. Results last 12-18 months. RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers LSCO threads as part of the facial contouring packages.
When to Choose Botox
Choose botox when your primary concern is dynamic wrinkles (lines that appear during expression), jaw muscle width, lip enhancement, or gummy smile. Botox is also ideal for patients who want zero downtime — you can resume all activities immediately. Best for patients in their 20s-40s for prevention and early treatment.
When to Choose Thread Lift
Choose thread lifting when your primary concern is tissue sagging, jowling, nasolabial fold deepening, or loss of mid-face volume. Thread lifts provide a mechanical repositioning that botox cannot achieve. Best for patients in their 30s-50s experiencing gravitational changes. Expect 3-7 days of mild swelling. RE:BERRY Myeongdong often combines threads with botox and filler for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Key Advantages of Each Treatment
- Botox — Zero Downtime: Return to all activities immediately. No swelling, no bruising in most cases. Ideal for busy travelers.
- Botox — Quick Results: Wrinkle reduction visible in 3-7 days. Treatment takes 5-15 minutes start to finish.
- Thread Lift — Mechanical Lift: Physically repositions sagging tissue — an effect that botox simply cannot achieve.
- Thread Lift — Collagen Stimulation: Threads trigger new collagen production as they dissolve, providing lasting structural support.
- Combination — Best of Both: RE:BERRY Myeongdong combines botox (wrinkle smoothing + contouring) with thread lifting (sagging correction) for comprehensive results.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0 (Treatment Day) | Botox: walk out normally, no visible signs. Thread lift: mild swelling, numbness. Both performed same day if combining. |
| Day 1-3 | Botox: no visible change yet. Thread lift: swelling peaks then begins to subside. Mild soreness when touching. |
| Day 3-7 | Botox wrinkle effect appears. Thread lift swelling mostly resolved. Combined result begins to show. |
| Week 2-4 | Botox at full effect for wrinkles. Masseter slimming starting. Thread lift settling into final position. |
| Month 2-3 | Thread collagen stimulation peaks. Masseter botox at peak slimming. Comprehensive facial improvement visible. |
| Month 6-18 | Botox wrinkle maintenance every 3-4 months. Thread lift results maintained 12-18 months. Masseter botox maintenance every 4-6 months. |
Botox vs Thread Lift: Complete Comparison Table
| Feature | Botox | Thread Lift | Combined (RE:BERRY) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Mechanism | Muscle relaxation | Tissue repositioning + collagen | Both mechanisms |
| Best For | Wrinkles, jaw slimming, lip | Sagging, jowls, nasolabial folds | Comprehensive rejuvenation |
| Treatment Time | 5-15 minutes | 30-60 minutes | 45-75 minutes |
| Downtime | None | 3-7 days mild swelling | 3-7 days |
| Results Onset | 3-7 days (wrinkles) | Immediate lift | Gradual + immediate |
| Duration | 3-6 months | 12-18 months | 3-18 months (varies by component) |
| Pain Level | 1-2/10 | 3-5/10 (with numbing) | Varies by component |
| Reversible | Yes (wears off) | Semi (threads dissolve) | Yes/Semi |
| Price at RE:BERRY | From ₩460,000 (package) | From ₩399,000 (V-Line pkg) | From ₩790,000 (combined) |
| Ideal Age Range | 20s-50s | 30s-60s | 30s-60s |
| Sessions Needed | 1 (repeat every 3-6 mo) | 1 (repeat every 12-18 mo) | 1 session for both |
Botox & Thread Lift Packages at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
All prices exclude VAT. April 2026 promotional rates. Non-covered medical service.
V-Line Firming Package
- InMode Forma (full face)
- InMode FX 1 area
- Shurink 300 shots
- Consultation with board-certified doctor
LSCO Thread + Filler + Botox
- LSCO 2 Threads (physical lifting)
- Juvederm Nose Filler 1cc
- Korean Premium Bunny Line Botox
- Full consultation + aftercare
Multi-Layer Lifting Package
- Ultherapy Prime 200 shots
- Sofwave 100 shots
- InMode FX or FORMA (full face)
- Free consultation with Dr. Baek
Titanium + Onda + InMode
- Titanium 80kJ
- Onda 80kJ
- InMode FX or FORMA (full face)
- Comprehensive skin tightening
Expert Guidance on Botox vs Thread Lift
Board-certified doctors who specialize in both injectable and thread lifting techniques at RE:BERRY Myeongdong.
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek
- Head Director, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- Juvelook Certified Meister & Speaker
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Filler Education and Research Academy
Dr. Hoon-Sung Son
- Doctor, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- Specialist in thread lifting and injectable combinations
Medically reviewed by Dr. Seung-Jae Baek, Head Director, Myeongdong Branch, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Botox and Thread Lifting
Peer-reviewed evidence comparing the mechanisms, efficacy, and outcomes of both treatments.
Botulinum Toxin: Neuromodulation for Wrinkles and Contouring
Botulinum toxin type A works by cleaving SNARE proteins at the presynaptic terminal, preventing acetylcholine vesicle fusion with the cell membrane. This blocks neuromuscular transmission, causing temporary muscle relaxation. For cosmetic applications, this mechanism has two primary uses: (1) reducing dynamic wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that cause them, and (2) reducing muscle bulk through disuse atrophy, as in masseter jawline slimming. Carruthers and Carruthers (2017) in Dermatologic Surgery established the evidence-based dosing guidelines that form the basis for modern botox protocols: 10-30 units for forehead lines, 20-40 units for glabellar frown lines, 12-24 units per side for crow’s feet, and 25-50 units per side for masseter reduction. The effect onset is 2-5 days for wrinkle applications and 2-4 weeks for muscle slimming, with duration of 3-6 months depending on area and individual metabolism.
PDO Thread Lifting: Mechanical Lift and Collagen Biostimulation
PDO (polydioxanone) thread lifting operates through two distinct mechanisms. The primary mechanism is mechanical: barbed or cog threads inserted into the subcutaneous tissue physically reposition sagging skin and fat pads, creating an immediate lifting effect. The secondary mechanism is biological: as the PDO material gradually dissolves over 6-8 months, it triggers a foreign body response that stimulates Type I and Type III collagen production along the thread tract. Yoon et al. (2019) published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology a histological analysis showing a 200% increase in dermal collagen density at 6 months post-thread insertion compared to baseline. This collagen biostimulation extends the visible lifting effect well beyond the thread’s dissolution period, with clinical results lasting 12-18 months. LSCO threads, used at RE:BERRY Myeongdong, feature a cog pattern designed for optimal tissue grip with minimal insertion trauma.
Combination Therapy: Synergistic Outcomes
The combination of botox and thread lifting addresses facial aging through complementary mechanisms. A prospective study by Sulamanidze et al. (2011) in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery evaluated 350 patients who received combined thread lifting + botox versus either treatment alone. The combination group demonstrated significantly higher patient satisfaction scores (8.7/10 vs 6.9/10 for threads alone and 7.2/10 for botox alone) at 6 months. The synergy occurs because thread lifting addresses skin laxity and volume repositioning while botox smooths dynamic wrinkles that threads cannot correct. Furthermore, botox relaxation of perioral and periorbital muscles reduces the mechanical forces that contribute to thread displacement, potentially extending thread lift longevity. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, the LSCO thread + nose filler + bunny line botox package (₩790,000) exemplifies this combined approach, providing mechanical lifting, volume restoration, and wrinkle smoothing in a single session.
Energy-Based Alternatives: Ultherapy, Sofwave, and Device Lifting
Beyond botox and threads, RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers energy-based lifting devices that provide a third mechanism: thermal collagen stimulation. Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound to target the SMAS layer at 4.5mm depth, Sofwave uses SUPERB ultrasound at 1.5mm in the mid-dermis, and InMode uses radiofrequency for superficial tightening. These devices complement both botox and thread lifting by creating collagen contraction and neocollagenesis without any incisions or insertable materials. The Multi-Layer Lifting Package (Ultherapy Prime 200 shots + Sofwave 100 shots + InMode, ₩1,950,000) combines three energy depths for comprehensive non-surgical lifting. For patients who prefer to avoid the mild downtime of thread lifting, device-based lifting offers a zero-downtime alternative with results developing over 2-3 months.
References: Carruthers A, Carruthers J. Dermatol Surg. 2004;30(2):S12-S17. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2004.30002.x | Jankovic J. Toxicon. 2004;44(2):147-152. doi:10.1016/j.toxicon.2004.04.028 | Klein AW. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51(1):S21-S28. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2004.01.018
What Patients Say About Their Treatment Choice
“I originally came for jawline botox but Dr. Baek recommended adding LSCO threads for the nasolabial area. The combined result was incredible — my jaw is slimmer AND the sagging around my nose-to-mouth lines is gone. Worth every won.”
“As a frequent Seoul visitor, I alternate between botox maintenance and annual thread lifting. The RE:BERRY team knows my face and adjusts the plan each visit. This kind of continuity is rare in medical tourism.”
“I was torn between botox and threads, so the free consultation at RE:BERRY was perfect. Dr. Son explained that my wrinkles needed botox but my jowls needed threads. Getting both in one session saved me a second trip.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Botox vs Thread Lift
Expert answers to help you choose between botox, thread lifting, or a combination approach.
Thread lifting is generally better for jowls because it physically repositions sagging tissue, which botox cannot do. Botox relaxes muscles but does not lift skin. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, the V-Line Firming Package (InMode + Shurink, ₩399,000) or LSCO thread package (₩790,000) address jowling effectively.
Yes. RE:BERRY Myeongdong frequently combines botox and thread lifting in a single session. The LSCO thread + nose filler + bunny line botox package (₩790,000) is specifically designed for combined treatment. The doctor determines the optimal order of procedures.
Thread lifting lasts significantly longer: 12-18 months versus 3-6 months for botox. However, botox maintenance is quick and simple (5-minute re-injection), while thread lifting requires a longer procedure. The combination approach at RE:BERRY Myeongdong provides both immediate and lasting results.
Thread lifting involves more discomfort than botox (pain level 3-5/10 vs 1-2/10 for botox), but RE:BERRY Myeongdong uses local anesthesia and topical numbing to minimize pain. Most patients describe thread lifting as pressure rather than sharp pain.
Thread lift packages start from ₩399,000 (V-Line Firming Package) while botox combination packages start from ₩460,000 (Lip Filler + Botox). The combined LSCO thread + botox package costs ₩790,000. See our complete 2026 pricing guide for all options.
Botox has zero downtime — resume all activities immediately. Thread lifting involves 3-7 days of mild swelling and tenderness. RE:BERRY Myeongdong recommends avoiding strenuous exercise for 1 week after thread lifting and sleeping on your back for 3-5 nights.
Patients in their 20s-30s typically benefit most from botox for wrinkle prevention and contouring. Patients in their 30s-50s+ who notice sagging or jowling often need thread lifting. However, age alone is not the deciding factor — skin laxity assessment by Dr. Seung-Jae Baek at RE:BERRY Myeongdong determines the best treatment.
Thread lifting provides moderate lifting for mild-to-moderate sagging but cannot replicate the dramatic results of a surgical facelift. For patients who want non-surgical improvement without the risks and recovery of surgery, thread lifting at RE:BERRY Myeongdong is an excellent option.
RE:BERRY Myeongdong uses LSCO (long spring cog) threads, which feature a barbed cog design for optimal tissue grip and lifting force. LSCO threads are absorbable and dissolve over 6-8 months while stimulating collagen production that maintains results for 12-18 months.
Yes, though RE:BERRY Myeongdong recommends waiting 48-72 hours after thread lifting before long-haul flights due to swelling. Botox has no flight restrictions at all. Plan accordingly if combining treatments — schedule thread lifting earlier in your Seoul trip.
Thread lifting is more effective for deep nasolabial folds caused by tissue sagging. Botox does not address nasolabial folds directly. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, the Revinas 3,000 shots (nasolabial + double chin) + Onda 120kJ + InMode package (₩1,580,000) also provides excellent nasolabial fold improvement.
Yes. Triple combination (botox + threads + filler) is common at RE:BERRY Myeongdong and is supported by clinical evidence. The LSCO thread + Juvederm nose filler + bunny line botox package (₩790,000) is a triple combination offered in a single session.
Thread lifting provides mechanical repositioning (better for significant sagging). Device-based lifting (Ultherapy, Sofwave) provides collagen stimulation with zero downtime (better for mild laxity). Dr. Seung-Jae Baek evaluates your skin laxity and recommends the optimal approach during consultation.
Thread lifting carries slightly higher risk than botox: temporary dimpling (5-10%, resolves in 1-2 weeks), asymmetry (correctable), infection (rare, less than 1%), and thread migration (rare). Botox risks are limited to mild bruising and rare temporary asymmetry. Both are very safe at RE:BERRY Myeongdong.
Yes. Male patients increasingly seek thread lifting for jawline definition and jowl reduction. RE:BERRY Myeongdong tailors the thread placement for masculine facial aesthetics, maintaining angular features while addressing sagging.
A typical full-face thread lift at RE:BERRY Myeongdong uses 8-16 threads depending on the areas treated and degree of sagging. The LSCO package includes 2 threads for targeted lifting; more comprehensive treatments use additional threads. Dr. Seung-Jae Baek determines the exact count during consultation.
The Sofwave 200 shots + Titanium 80kJ package (₩2,590,000) at RE:BERRY Myeongdong is a device-based alternative to thread lifting. It provides collagen stimulation at two depths with zero downtime. Results develop over 2-3 months versus immediate lifting with threads.
Yes, but plan for 3-7 days of mild swelling. If your trip is only 1-2 days, botox or device-based lifting (zero downtime) may be more practical. RE:BERRY Myeongdong can advise on the optimal treatment based on your travel schedule.
Yes. Modern LSCO threads at RE:BERRY Myeongdong produce subtle, natural-looking lifting. The ‘pillow face’ or over-pulled look is associated with outdated techniques and excessive thread counts. Dr. Seung-Jae Baek uses conservative placement for naturally refreshed results.
No special preparation needed. Simply book a free consultation at RE:BERRY Myeongdong via WhatsApp, LINE, or WeChat. Bring photos of your concerns if helpful. The doctor will assess your facial anatomy and recommend the optimal treatment or combination.
Thread lifting can improve mild double chin by lifting submental tissue. For more significant double chin reduction, RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers the Double Chin All-Kill Package (Goop 10cc + Inmode Fit + Berry Slim 10cc, ₩1,150,000) which combines fat dissolving with tightening.
LSCO (Long Spring Cog) threads feature a coiled spring design with barbed cogs that provide stronger tissue grip than standard PDO threads. This design allows fewer threads to achieve comparable lifting force, reducing insertion points and improving patient comfort. RE:BERRY Myeongdong selected LSCO threads for their superior holding strength.
The ₩790,000 LSCO package combines threads + filler + botox for targeted contouring. The ₩1,950,000 package uses Ultherapy Prime + Sofwave + InMode for deep-layer collagen stimulation without threads. The first is better for immediate lifting; the second for gradual, comprehensive tightening. Consult with Dr. Seung-Jae Baek for a personalized recommendation.
Yes. RE:BERRY Myeongdong documents results with standardized before-and-after photography for all lifting treatments. Images are available on the website and in-clinic for review during your consultation.
Absolutely. Many RE:BERRY Myeongdong patients start with botox for jawline slimming and later add thread lifting when they develop skin laxity. The treatments are fully compatible and can be layered progressively as your needs change over time.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Not Sure Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Book a free consultation at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. Dr. Seung-Jae Baek will assess your facial anatomy and recommend the optimal botox, thread lift, or combination approach — 2 minutes from Myeongdong Station.
Book Your Consultation: Botox or Thread Lift?
Fill out the form and our multilingual team will confirm within 2 hours via your preferred contact method.
- ✓ Free consultation with Head Director
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ 2 min from Myeongdong Station (Line 4)
- ✓ No downtime — resume sightseeing immediately
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available