Table of contents

• Butt Thread Lift: A Detailed Medical Procedure
• Best Clinics in Korea for Sagging Buttocks After Weight Loss
• The Process of Getting a Butt Thread Lift in South Korea
• Cost Analysis: Butt Thread Lifts in South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes of Butt Thread Lifts for Sagging Buttocks After Weight Loss
• Conclusion
• References

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Sagging buttocks after significant weight loss—often called "deflated gluteal contour post-dieting"—is a common concern. This condition appears as a flattening or sagging of the buttock area, resulting from a loss of both fat and muscle. When the skin, once stretched by a larger body size, can't fully retract, it leads to a "deflated" look with loose or wrinkled skin.

This change isn't tied to any single weight-loss method. Whether weight is lost through medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists (sometimes called "Ozempic butt" or "Wegovy butt"), bariatric surgery, or traditional dieting and exercise, the risk of sagging buttocks remains. While these informal terms are popular, they can unintentionally add to weight stigma by suggesting that successful weight loss should leave no loose skin.

Medically, this drooping is known as "buttock ptosis," which describes the sagging of gluteal tissue below the crease between the legs and buttocks. Other terms like "banana rolls," "muffin tops," and "love handles" refer to specific fat deposits, but "Ozempic butt" and "buttock ptosis" are most relevant for post-weight loss changes.

Several factors contribute to sagging buttocks. Rapid fat loss can shrink the buttocks faster than the skin can contract, leading to a flattened appearance. Skin that's been stretched for a long time loses elasticity, much like an overstretched rubber band, making it harder to bounce back. Age also plays a role, as older skin produces less collagen and elastin, increasing the risk of sagging. Losing both fat and muscle—especially without enough protein or resistance training—can cause the gluteal muscles to shrink, further flattening the area. Genetics influence fat storage and skin elasticity, and those who undergo bariatric surgery often experience significant loose skin due to rapid weight loss.

It's important to note that a saggy or flatter bottom after weight loss isn't always a medical issue needing treatment. For those who want to address it, lifestyle changes are a good starting point. Slowing weight loss gives skin more time to adjust, staying hydrated helps maintain skin elasticity, and eating enough protein supports muscle and skin health. Resistance training, especially exercises like squats and leg presses, can rebuild muscle and improve firmness.

For mild to moderate skin laxity, non-invasive treatments are available. Dermal fillers like Sculptra or Radiesse can add volume and stimulate collagen, though results are temporary. Laser therapy, intense pulsed light, and body contouring technologies using radiofrequency or ultrasound can tighten skin and reshape the area. However, for significant sagging after major weight loss, these options may not be enough, and more direct interventions are often needed for lasting results.

Butt Thread Lift: A Detailed Medical Procedure

A buttock thread lift is a minimally invasive, non-surgical cosmetic procedure that subtly lifts, sculpts, and refines the buttocks. It involves inserting tiny, dissolvable, medical-grade threads beneath the skin. While not a replacement for more extensive surgeries like fat grafting (Brazilian Butt Lifts) or implants, it focuses on skin tightening and collagen stimulation rather than major volume enhancement. One of its main benefits is immediate lifting with much less downtime than traditional surgery.

The procedure works in two main ways: immediate physical lifting and long-term collagen stimulation.

First, physical lifting by threads provides instant support. Small entry points are made in the buttock area, and specialized needles or cannulas insert threads along planned paths under the skin. Barbed threads grip and lift sagging tissue, creating an immediate lift and a supportive scaffold. Proper placement ensures the threads are effective yet invisible, resulting in a natural contour.

Second, the threads trigger collagen stimulation. As the threads dissolve, they prompt the body to produce new collagen, a protein essential for skin firmness and elasticity. This process, called neocollagenesis, continues even after the threads are gone, improving skin texture and tone over time.

Different thread types are used, each made from safe, biodegradable materials. They can be designed for lifting (with cogs or barbs) or for collagen stimulation (smooth, coiled, or twisted).

• PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads: FDA-approved and widely used, these provide immediate lift and dissolve in 6-9 months. Collagen stimulation can last 9-16 months. PDO threads are suitable for buttock enhancement.
• PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) Threads: These offer gradual lifting and strong, long-lasting collagen stimulation. They dissolve over 18-24 months (up to 3-4 years for screw threads) and are used specifically for buttock lifts.
• PCL (Polycaprolactone) Threads: The newest option, PCL threads are flexible and last over two years, sometimes up to three. They stimulate the most collagen and are used for buttock lifts.

Choosing the right thread depends on the patient's needs and desired results. For longer-lasting effects, PCL threads may be preferred, while PDO threads are effective for milder concerns.

Comparison of Thread Types

Thread Type	Material (Full Name)	Dissolution Time	Collagen Stimulation Duration	Primary Benefits	Suitability for Buttocks
PDO	Polydioxanone	6-9 months	9-16 months	Immediate lift, skin improvement, widely used, FDA-approved	Yes
PLLA	Poly-L-Lactic Acid	18-24 months, up to 3-4 years for screw threads	~24 months, stronger stimulation	Long-lasting results, gradual improvement, improved elasticity, significant collagen boost	Yes
PCL	Polycaprolactone	2+ years, up to 3 years	Over 2 years, strongest stimulation	Superior longevity, extended collagen stimulation, flexibility, less discomfort	Yes

Buttock thread lifts are appealing for those seeking less invasive solutions. The procedure uses only local anesthesia, avoids large incisions, and has minimal downtime—most people return to normal activities within days. Results look natural and improve gradually as collagen builds, with benefits like firmer skin, reduced cellulite, and improved texture.

However, results are temporary (1-3 years) and require maintenance treatments. Thread lifts aren't substitutes for major surgery and are best for mild to moderate sagging. For severe laxity, surgical options like a lower body lift may be better. Minor side effects like swelling or bruising are possible but usually short-lived.

Thread lifts are a great "bridge" for those not ready for surgery, offering natural-looking results with less commitment. The choice of thread material is important, as each type offers different benefits in longevity and collagen stimulation, allowing for personalized treatment.

Best Clinics in Korea for Sagging Buttocks After Weight Loss

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for sagging buttocks after weight loss:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Haru Clinic	Non-invasive aesthetic medicine, addresses volume and skin tightening, minimal scarring and downtime, comprehensive non-surgical procedures including body contouring, thread lifts, collagen tightening	Innovative butt lift using sagging skin for fullness, expertise in latest filler techniques by Dr. Jeong, customized care
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Premier clinic with board-certified surgeons, cutting-edge facilities, patient-centered care, comprehensive four-floor facility in Gangnam, surgeons active in research and education	Expertise in 3D implants, facial contouring, breast augmentation, focus on safety, harmony, individualized treatment

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic, located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, stands at the forefront of non-invasive aesthetic medicine, offering advanced solutions for sagging buttocks after weight loss. Unlike traditional Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) that focus solely on adding volume, Haru Clinic’s innovative butt lift procedure addresses both volume enhancement and skin tightening. By utilizing sagging skin to add fullness to targeted areas, patients benefit from immediate, natural-looking results that last longer without concerns about fat survival or filler absorption. The clinic’s non-invasive approach ensures minimal scarring and downtime, allowing patients to quickly return to their daily routines with renewed confidence.

Led by Dr. Jeong, an official research physician at Merz—the company behind Belotero Filler—Haru Clinic is renowned for its commitment to patient safety, transparent communication, and customized care. Dr. Jeong’s expertise in the latest filler techniques and his meticulous attention to facial harmony ensure that every treatment is tailored to the individual’s unique features. Beyond buttock enhancement, Haru Clinic offers a comprehensive range of non-surgical procedures, including body contouring, thread lifts, and collagen tightening, making it a preferred destination for those seeking transformative yet minimally invasive aesthetic solutions in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for addressing sagging buttocks after weight loss in Korea, thanks to its world-renowned team of board-certified surgeons, cutting-edge facilities, and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. Led by Dr. Kim, an award-winning expert in 3D implants and facial contouring, and Dr. Jeong, the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons with a global reputation for combining function and beauty, the clinic brings together unparalleled expertise in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Lee, a specialist in breast augmentation with extensive experience at top hospitals, further enhances the clinic’s capabilities in body contouring and natural, long-lasting results. Located in the heart of Gangnam’s Garosu-gil, THE PLUS offers a comprehensive, four-floor facility designed for seamless patient experiences from consultation to post-operative care. The clinic’s surgeons are not only skilled practitioners but also respected educators and researchers, regularly contributing to international medical forums and journals, ensuring they remain at the forefront of surgical innovation. With a philosophy rooted in safety, harmony, and individualized treatment, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery provides the highest standard of care for those seeking to restore firmness and contour to the buttocks after significant weight loss, making it the top choice for discerning patients in Korea and beyond.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

The Process of Getting a Butt Thread Lift in South Korea

South Korea is a global leader in cosmetic surgery, known for advanced technology, skilled surgeons, and a strong focus on aesthetics. This makes it a top destination for international patients seeking buttock thread lifts.

The process starts with an initial consultation and assessment. Patients discuss their goals with a qualified professional, who evaluates their anatomy and suitability for the procedure. Virtual consultations, sometimes with 3D imaging, are common for international patients. Pre-operative instructions, like quitting smoking, are provided to ensure safety.

Next is preparation and anesthesia. The buttock area is cleaned and sterilized, and local anesthesia is given for comfort. Sometimes, additional sedation is offered.

During thread insertion and contouring, the surgeon makes small entry points and inserts dissolvable threads (PDO, PLLA, or PCL) into the subdermal layer. The number of threads is tailored to the desired lift and the patient's anatomy. The surgeon adjusts the threads for a natural look. The procedure usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, or up to two hours for complex cases.

Post-procedure care and recovery are straightforward. Entry points are closed, and mild swelling or bruising may occur but typically resolves in a week. Most people resume normal activities within 24-72 hours, though strenuous exercise and pressure on the area should be avoided for 2-3 weeks. Good hydration, skincare, and avoiding alcohol and smoking help healing. No hospital stay is needed; patients go home the same day.

Follow-up and maintenance treatments are important for long-term results. While immediate improvements are visible, collagen stimulation continues for months. Threads dissolve over time (e.g., PDO in 6-8 months), but collagen effects can last 12-18 months or longer with PCL. Repeat treatments are often recommended after a year.

South Korea's medical tourism support services are a major advantage. Agencies like All About Seoul, Beauty Hopper, and Bookimed help with clinic selection, travel logistics, and provide multilingual support. They assist with flights, hotels, transfers, and appointments, and often offer cultural tours. For many visitors, no visa is needed for stays under 90 days.

This comprehensive support system makes the process smooth and less stressful for international patients. Korean clinics emphasize natural-looking, gradual improvements and use advanced techniques for stable, long-lasting results, setting them apart globally.

Cost Analysis: Butt Thread Lifts in South Korea vs. Other Countries

The cost of a buttock thread lift depends on several factors. The clinician's expertise and reputation can affect fees, with experienced surgeons charging more. The type and number of threads used also impact price—different materials (PDO, PLLA, PCL) have varying costs, and more threads mean higher expenses. The complexity of the procedure and clinic location (urban vs. rural) further influence pricing.

Additional costs may include consultation fees ($50-$200), anesthesia ($200-$500), medical tests, medications, and facility fees ($500-$2,000). Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages, while others itemize charges. Combining thread lifts with treatments like Sculptra injections increases the total cost.

In South Korea, thread lifts typically cost $700 to $2,000, with some packages up to $4,000 or more, depending on complexity and clinic reputation. A "Non Surgical Buttock Lift" package may be priced at $4,825 if it includes fillers. Prices are often calculated per thread ($10-$20 each), so a 100-thread procedure could cost $1,000-$2,000, not including professional fees. Specialized threads like MINT Lift may cost around $40 per thread.

Compared to the United States or Europe, South Korea is generally more affordable due to intense competition and lower operating costs. Procedures there can be 30-50% less expensive than in Western countries, where costs can exceed $10,000.

Comparative Cost of Thread Lifts (General)

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD) for Thread Lift (General)	Notes
South Korea	$700 - $4,000	Prices can be per thread ($10-$40). A specific non-surgical buttock lift package is $4,825.
United States	$1,500 - $4,500, sometimes up to $10,000	Each thread can cost $100-$300. Specific buttock thread lifts range $2,000-$4,000.
United Kingdom	£600 - £2,000 (approx. $750 - $2,500 USD)	One clinic specifies £550 (approx. $690 USD) per 10 threads for butt lift, minimum 5 threads per side.
Thailand	$1,500 - $3,500	Some clinics list thread lift prices from $500 or as low as ฿1,750 (approx. $48 USD) per thread.

Note: Costs are general estimates for thread lifts across various body areas, as specific "buttock thread lift" prices aren't always available for all countries. Prices vary by thread type, clinic, and services.

This analysis shows that South Korea and Thailand offer more competitive pricing than the US or UK, without sacrificing quality. The affordability is due to a competitive market and high procedure volume, making South Korea especially attractive for medical tourists seeking value and expertise.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes of Butt Thread Lifts for Sagging Buttocks After Weight Loss

Patients who have had buttock thread lifts for sagging after weight loss generally report positive experiences, especially regarding the subtle lift and improved skin quality. While detailed testimonials specifically about post-weight loss thread lifts are limited, the general outcomes align with the needs of those with deflated gluteal contours.

The main issues addressed are loss of volume and skin laxity. Patients often want a more youthful, contoured look, with increased firmness and a subtle lift. The thread lift provides an immediate improvement, with further enhancement as collagen builds over the following months. This leads to firmer skin, better texture, and a refined contour, all while maintaining a natural appearance.

For example, "Jane," a 35-year-old mother, chose a buttock thread lift after losing weight post-pregnancy. She wanted her clothes to fit better and to regain her shape without major surgery. She experienced minimal discomfort and returned to daily activities within three days, appreciating the lack of hospital stay and immediate results.

Improvements are usually subtle but effective, with enhanced skin quality and firmness that can also reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. Many patients feel more confident and find their clothes fit better, boosting self-esteem.

It's important for patients to have realistic expectations. Thread lifts are best for mild to moderate laxity and those seeking a subtle, natural lift—not a dramatic size increase or solution for severe excess skin. For significant sagging, surgical options like a Brazilian Butt Lift or lower body lift may be more suitable. Results last 1-3 years and require maintenance treatments.

The effectiveness of buttock thread lifts comes from their dual action: immediate support and long-term collagen regeneration. This makes them a valuable option for those wanting less invasive ways to refine their gluteal contour and improve skin quality. Setting realistic goals through thorough consultations is key to patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

Sagging buttocks after weight loss, often called "Ozempic butt" or "buttock ptosis," is a common concern due to rapid fat and muscle loss and reduced skin elasticity. While lifestyle changes can help, they may not fully address significant sagging. Buttock thread lifts offer a minimally invasive solution, providing both immediate lift and long-term collagen stimulation for firmer, more contoured results. South Korea stands out for its expertise, affordability, and comprehensive support, making it a top choice for this procedure. Patients should have realistic expectations and consult with qualified practitioners to ensure the best outcomes.

References

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