What is a Nose Thread Lift?

• Also referred to as a “string rhinoplasty” or HIKO Nose Lift in Korea — this is a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure that uses dissolvable threads (commonly PDO threads) to elevate and reshape the nose (bridge, tip, sometimes entire profile) without major surgery.
• The threads act as a scaffold: they lift tissue immediately and also stimulate collagen production over time, which supports the new shape.
• The procedure is particularly popular in Korea for those seeking a “higher bridge”, more defined tip, or sharper nose contour, with minimal downtime.

Why Korea / Seoul is a Strong Choice for This Procedure

• Korea (and specifically Seoul) has become a hub of advanced non-surgical aesthetic procedures, including thread lifts, and the nose thread lift in particular is said to have originated/been popularised here. Seoul.clinic+1
• Many clinics in Seoul advertise experience with these procedures, use of certified threads, and tailored plans for non-surgical nose reshaping.
• If you’re near Seoul (you’re based in Gyeonggi-do), logistics like consultation, treatment and follow-up are more convenient.

Procedure Overview & What to Expect

  Consultation & planning

• The surgeon/clinician assesses your nose anatomy (bridge height, tip, existing shape, skin thickness) and discusses your goals (higher bridge, more tip angle, subtle reshaping).
• They explain the type of threads to be used (PDO, sometimes PCL), how many threads, insertion points, what limitations there are (non-surgical means less dramatic than full rhinoplasty).

  On the day of the procedure

• Mild local anaesthesia or numbing cream is often used.
• Small punctures are made at predetermined insertion points (e.g., side of nose base), and threads are placed along the nose bridge or into the tip area to lift and define.
• The procedure may take approximately 30 – 60 minutes depending on complexity.

  After-care / recovery

• Downtime is minimal: you can often resume many daily activities shortly after. Some mild swelling or bruising may occur.
• Final result develops over several weeks as collagen remodels around the threads.
• Avoid heavy nose-touching, strong facial massage, and be gentle with the treated area.

Suitable Candidates & Limitations

  Good candidates

• People whose nose is fairly flat or low bridge, or whose tip lacks definition, and who are seeking a modest lift/stretch rather than dramatic change.
• Those who prefer non-surgical/minimally invasive methods, with lower downtime than a full rhinoplasty.

  Limitations / when surgery may be more appropriate

• If you require major structural changes (e.g., large hump removal, major bone/cartilage reshaping, breathing issues) then a surgical rhinoplasty may be the better option.
• Results are not permanent: threads dissolve, so maintenance may be needed.
• If skin is very thick/heavy or the anatomy is challenging, the outcome may be more subtle.

Cost & Duration of Results

• While exact pricing varies widely among clinics and depending on threads used, treated area, combination with fillers, etc., some Korean-based guides show the procedure can be around ₩500,000 to ₩1,500,000+ depending on scope.
• Duration: Many sources say the effect lasts from 12 to 18 months (some up to 2 years) though this depends on the individual, thread type, tissue support, lifestyle.

Key Questions to Ask at Your Consultation

• What type of threads will you use (PDO / PCL)? Are they certified and appropriate for nose lift use?
• How many threads will you insert, and in what positions (bridge, tip)?
• Will you combine this with filler or other treatments?
• What is the expected downtime and recovery for my nose anatomy?
• What results can I reasonably expect (how high/defined can my nose look)? Are there before/afters for similar noses?
• What are risks (e.g., asymmetry, thread migration, visible thread, infection) and how are they managed?
• What is included in the price (consultation, procedure, follow-ups)? Are there revision/maintenance options?

Practical Tips & After-Procedure Advice

• Before your procedure: Avoid blood-thinning medications (as advised by your clinician), minimise alcohol, ensure you are well-hydrated and rested.
• On the day: Wear comfortable clothes, allow time for brief recovery; plan not to touch the nose area much for 24‐48 hours.
• After: Sleep with head elevated a bit, avoid forceful nose touching, strong facial massage, or strenuous exercise for a few days. Use sunscreen and gentle skincare.
• Maintain the result: Good skin health supports the tissue around the threads; consider combining with other treatments (if appropriate) for longer-term contour maintenance.
• If travelling: Because you’re in the Seoul area, plan a short stay for follow-up in case any concerns arise; keep communication open with your clinic.