Thread Lift Aftercare: Precautions & Recovery Tips Explained by Coco the Cat｜PangPang Clinic
Thread Lift Aftercare Guide for International Patients
Welcome to PangPang Clinic—your trusted partner for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation during your visit to Korea. If you’ve just had a thread lift (or are planning one as part of your medical travel itinerary), this guide explains what to do, what to avoid, and what to expect so you can recover comfortably and enjoy your trip.
Our clinic mascot, Coco the cat, is cheering for your smooth recovery too!
[Coco TMI: Coco is a friendly, playful two-year-old boy!]
What To Do After Your Thread Lift
Make the contour band your daily habit
Purchase a facial contour/compression band from a pharmacy and wear it as much as possible for 1 month to support optimal results.
Apply ointment correctly
For about 3 days, apply ointment once or twice daily after cleansing. Gently massage from the inside out over the treated area.
- If you have stitches
Return to the clinic for stitch removal 3–4 days after your procedure.
What To Avoid After Your Procedure
[Coco TMI: Coco loves people and doesn’t get shy! Even if strangers visit, he’s totally fine!]
- Makeup and cleansing
Do not wear makeup on procedure day. Do not rub the treated area; cleanse gently. From Day 2, you may use a mild cleansing foam.
- Hair washing
The day after the procedure: rinse hair with water only. From Day 2: shampoo is okay.
- Patch removal and ointment sequence
Allow the protective patch to come off naturally the next day—do not pull it off. After it comes off, apply antibacterial eye ointment for about 5 days, then switch to a scar ointment.
- Inflammation triggers
Avoid alcohol, smoking, and other inflammation triggers for 3–7 days.
- Physical stimulation and heat
Avoid saunas, spas, and intense massages for 3–7 days.
- Medications and supplements
Take your prescribed antibiotics as directed. Avoid other herbal medicines for 2 weeks after your procedure unless cleared by your doctor.
What’s Normal—and When To Contact Us
[Coco TMI: Coco is a natural in front of the camera and a pro at photo shoots! He even wraps up his video shoots quickly!]
- Common, temporary symptoms
Mild bruising, swelling, tenderness, tightness, or a “lumpy” sensation can occur for 1–3 weeks. Rest and use cold packs as needed.
- Sensations from the threads
Tightness, stiffness, or feeling like something is beneath the skin can occur early on. Avoid pressing, massaging, or straining the area.
- When to get help
This can happen depending on lifestyle or movement. Don’t worry—visit the clinic for professional care and correction.
- If a thread becomes exposed
This can happen depending on lifestyle or movement. Don’t worry—visit the clinic for professional care and correction.
Results Timeline
As your skin begins regenerating, lifting effects usually become noticeable around 3–4 weeks.
Depending on your skin condition, elasticity and contour can continue to improve for 6 months up to 2 years.
Note: This article was translated and published from the original with consent from the author.
Travel Tips for Medical Tourists
– Plan your itinerary – Consider a light schedule for the first 3–7 days after your procedure to avoid heat exposure, strenuous activities, and vigorous facial treatments.
– Schedule key follow-ups – If you have stitches, plan to be in Korea 3–4 days after your procedure for removal. – Allow time for a brief in-clinic check if you have any concerns (e.g., thread exposure or notable swelling).
– Comfort on the go – Wear your contour band as much as possible—even during rest time at your accommodation. – Pack cold packs or use hotel ice for short, gentle cooling as advised.
– Pharmacy access – Ointments and contour bands are available at most Korean pharmacies. Bring your medication list and use products as directed by your physician.
– Keep your skin calm – Avoid saunas, hot springs, and strong facial massages common in spa itineraries during the first week.
