Table of contents

• Understanding Buttock Stretch Marks (Striae Distensae)
• The Butt Thread Lift Procedure: A Detailed Overview
• Butt Thread Lift for Stretch Marks: Efficacy and Patient Experiences
• Best Clinics in Korea
• Undergoing a Butt Thread Lift in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Journey
• Cost Analysis: Butt Thread Lifts in South Korea vs. Other Destinations
• Conclusions and Recommendations
• References

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Understanding Buttock Stretch Marks (Striae Distensae)

Stretch marks, medically known as Striae Distensae (SD), are common skin scars that appear as linear marks due to rapid skin stretching, which disrupts the dermal connective tissue. Although they are not physically harmful or painful, they often cause cosmetic and psychological distress.

These marks change over time. Initially, they appear as slightly raised, linear streaks ranging in color from bright pink to red-purple, called striae rubrae. Over months to years, they fade into lighter, thinner, and wrinkled scars known as striae albae. Less commonly, stretch marks may appear as black (striae nigra) or dark blue (striae caerulea). They typically develop in areas prone to rapid stretching, such as the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, back, axillae, groin, and notably, the buttocks, usually aligning perpendicular to skin tension.

Common Pseudonyms and Classifications

Besides "stretch marks," these scars are also called "striae" or "striae atrophica." Classifying them by appearance or context helps distinguish their types and causes.

Table 1: Common Pseudonyms and Characteristics of Stretch Marks

Pseudonym	Description/Appearance	Common Associations/Causes
Striae Distensae	General medical term; linear dermal scars	Rapid skin stretching, hormonal changes, mechanical stress
Striae Atrophicans	Thinned skin	Medical conditions (e.g., Cushing syndrome), corticosteroid use
Striae Gravidarum	Stretch marks during or after pregnancy	Pregnancy
Striae Rubrae	New, red-colored, slightly raised marks	Initial phase of stretch mark development
Striae Albae	Older, white, faded or scar-like marks	Mature phase of stretch marks
Striae Nigra	Black-colored stretch marks	Specific hormonal or physiological conditions
Striae Caerulea	Dark blue-colored stretch marks	Specific hormonal or physiological conditions

Causes and Risk Factors

Stretch marks result from rapid skin stretching that damages collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis. Their development involves complex physiological, hormonal, and genetic factors.

Physiological Conditions: Pregnancy affects 43%–88% of individuals, puberty 6%–86%, and rapid weight changes or obesity (43%) are common triggers.

Hormonal Influences: Elevated cortisol in Cushing syndrome, adrenocorticotropic hormones, and pregnancy-related hormones like relaxin deficiency contribute to stretch marks.

Corticosteroid Exposure: Both topical and systemic corticosteroids can cause widespread stretch marks.

Genetic Factors: A family history suggests genetic predisposition, possibly linked to deficiencies in fibrillin, collagen, and fibronectin.

Associated Medical Conditions: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, anorexia nervosa, febrile illnesses, and chronic liver disease are linked to stretch marks.

Medications: Chemotherapy, prolonged antibiotics, hormonal contraceptives, and neuroleptics may contribute.

Other Factors: Intense muscular exercise, breast enlargement surgery, and anabolic steroids also play roles.

Because of this complexity, no single treatment fully addresses all causes, and managing stretch marks often requires a holistic approach.

The Science Behind Stretch Mark Formation

Stretch marks form when the dermis undergoes excessive stretching, disrupting collagen and elastin fibers essential for skin elasticity. Enzymes like elastases from mast cells and macrophages contribute to this damage, resulting in scar formation.

Current Treatment Landscape for Stretch Marks

Treating stretch marks is challenging. They often fade over time but rarely disappear completely. Avoiding rapid weight gain can help prevent obesity-related marks.

Despite many advances, strong evidence for effective treatments is limited. Procedures that stimulate new collagen and elastin—fractional ablative and non-ablative lasers, radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)—show some benefit.

The psychological impact and treatment difficulty drive demand for cosmetic procedures. Patients seek solutions amid limited definitive medical options, highlighting the need for balanced views on procedures like thread lifts, which improve skin quality but may not directly repair stretch marks.

The Butt Thread Lift Procedure: A Detailed Overview

What is a Butt Thread Lift?

A buttock thread lift is a minimally invasive, non-surgical cosmetic procedure that lifts, sculpts, and contours the buttocks using tiny, dissolvable medical-grade threads inserted beneath the skin. It serves as a "tweak or adjunct therapy," not a substitute for muscle toning or extensive surgeries like fat grafting or Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs).

This procedure lifts skin and tissue but not significant fat, focusing on skin tightening and collagen stimulation rather than volumetric enhancement. Its goal is improved contour, firmness, and skin quality.

How Does it Work?

The butt thread lift works through two mechanisms:

1. Immediate Mechanical Lift: Threads create a scaffold that physically lifts sagging tissue, repositioning it along natural contours for an instant lifted look.

2. Collagen Stimulation (Neocollagenesis): Threads activate fibroblasts, stimulating new collagen and elastin production over months, enhancing skin texture, firmness, and elasticity.

Threads have tiny barbs or cones to anchor securely in the subcutaneous tissue.

Types of Threads Used

Different thread materials serve specific aesthetic purposes.

Table 2: Types of Threads Used in Butt Thread Lifts

Thread Type	Material	Dissolution Time	Key Properties/Benefits	Primary Function
PDO	Polydioxanone	~6 months	Safe, biocompatible, stimulates collagen for 12-16 months	Immediate lift, skin texture improvement, moderate volume
PLA	Polylactic Acid	~12 months	Stronger collagen stimulation than PDO, gradual effect	Lifting, significant volume enhancement over time
PCA	Polycaprolactone	12-15 months	Longest lasting, stimulates most collagen	Severe sagging, maximal collagen stimulation

• PDO Threads: Widely used, FDA-approved, dissolve in ~6 months but stimulate collagen for up to 16 months. Provide immediate lift and skin improvement.

• PLA Threads: Dissolve in ~12 months, stimulate stronger collagen production, ideal for noticeable skin laxity and volume enhancement.

• PCA Threads: Last 12-15 months, stimulate the most collagen, used for severe sagging but less common.

Thread configurations include:

• PDO Mono Threads (smooth): Fine threads improving skin texture and quality.

• PDO Screw Threads (twisted): Add volume and moderate lift.

• Cog Threads (barbed): Have hooks for stronger, immediate lifting.

The Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Preparation: Local anesthesia numbs the area; skin is disinfected to prevent infection.

2. Incisions and Thread Insertion: Small entry points are made; threads are inserted under the skin using needles or cannulas.

3. Lifting and Contouring: Threads are adjusted and tightened to lift and shape the buttocks.

4. Closing Incisions: Small cuts are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.

The procedure typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour, sometimes up to 2 hours depending on complexity.

Benefits and Ideal Candidates

Benefits:

• Minimally invasive, no skin removal.

• Local anesthesia reduces risks.

• Minimal downtime; normal activities resume in 24-48 hours.

• Immediate lift with progressive collagen-driven improvements.

• Enhances skin quality, texture, and firmness; may reduce cellulite and stretch marks.

• Natural-looking results.

• More affordable than surgical lifts.

• Outpatient procedure, no hospital stay.

Ideal Candidates:

• People aged 35-55 with mild to moderate skin laxity.

• Good physical condition, not significantly overweight.

• Those seeking subtle improvements, not dramatic surgical results.

• Patients unsuitable for surgery due to medical conditions.

• Individuals wanting minimally invasive lifting for buttocks or other body areas.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Butt thread lifts are generally safe, with minor side effects in 1-2% of patients.

Common Side Effects: Mild swelling, bruising, tenderness, soreness, and redness.

Rare Complications: Infection (2.49%), thread migration causing asymmetry, skin puckering, hematoma (0.64%), paresthesia (1.14%). Surgical removal of threads may be needed in rare cases, with potential for persistent deformities if delayed.

PDO threads can be fragile, complicating removal. Some critiques warn that scar tissue from PDO threads might affect future treatments or cause skin thickening or looseness after dissolution.

Expected Longevity of Results

Results last 1 to 3 years. Threads dissolve naturally (PDO ~6 months, PLA ~12 months, PCA 12-15 months), but collagen stimulation maintains improvements longer.

Repeat treatments are often needed after about a year. Some reports suggest initial lift may partly result from swelling and fade within 2-3 months. Since thread lifts don’t restore lost volume, results are temporary, requiring ongoing commitment and costs.

Butt Thread Lift for Stretch Marks: Efficacy and Patient Experiences

How Thread Lifts May Impact Stretch Marks

Thread lifts may improve stretch marks by stimulating collagen (neocollagenesis), which rebuilds the dermis, enhances elasticity, and improves skin texture and firmness. PDO threads are noted to improve skin quality and may reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks by smoothing skin texture.

Patient Perspectives and Reported Outcomes

Many patients report high satisfaction, praising natural results, minimal invasiveness, quick recovery, and little discomfort. They often notice immediate lifting and firmer skin, boosting confidence. Before-and-after photos show improved contour and firmness, with ongoing improvements attributed to collagen stimulation.

The perceived improvement in stretch marks likely comes from enhanced skin texture and firmness around the marks, making them less noticeable rather than directly repairing the dermal tears. This "halo effect" explains patient satisfaction despite limited scientific evidence for direct stretch mark treatment.

Dermatological Consensus and Scientific Evidence

General Efficacy for Skin Laxity: Thread lifts are safe and effective for lifting sagging skin, with expanding use beyond the face to body rejuvenation. Clinical studies show significant improvements and high satisfaction over 1-2 years.

Specific Efficacy for Stretch Marks: There is a "paucity of strong evidence" for effective stretch mark treatment with thread lifts. Claims of reducing stretch marks relate mainly to collagen stimulation and skin tightening, not direct repair. Established treatments like fractional lasers, RF microneedling, and PRP show better outcomes.

Critical reviews note that immediate lift may be due to swelling, fading after 2-3 months, and that PDO thread scar tissue might negatively affect future treatments or skin quality.

Important Considerations and Realistic Expectations

Patients should have realistic expectations: butt thread lifts improve overall skin quality and firmness, which may lessen stretch mark visibility but do not directly cure the dermal tears. Results are subtle, temporary, and require maintenance.

A multi-modal approach combining thread lifts with other proven stretch mark treatments may offer better results. Thread lifts can be a valuable part of a broader plan but are not a standalone solution for stretch marks.

Best Clinics in Korea

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Haru Clinic	Located in Gangnam, Seoul; led by Dr. Jeong, Merz-certified expert; personalized care; strong emphasis on patient safety and transparent communication; comprehensive non-invasive procedures rivaling surgical results; specialized body lift treatments including Apple Hip Lift; combination therapies like Bodyline Care	Unique thread lifting technique using area behind ear for stable, long-lasting lift; precise skin lifting preventing enlargement and creating smooth, natural contours; minimizes discomfort by avoiding large nerves and blood vessels
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, Seoul; team of highly skilled surgeons with decades of expertise; commitment to blending natural beauty with functional enhancement; patient safety and satisfaction prioritized; modern facility providing comfort and privacy; involvement in ongoing medical research and education	Innovative laser treatments; skin resurfacing; tailored surgical options; artistic precision in stretch mark care

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic, located in the bustling Gangnam district of Seoul, stands out as a premier destination for stretch mark and buttock enhancement treatments in Korea. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Jeong, an official research physician at Merz and a leading authority in aesthetic medicine, Haru Clinic offers innovative, non-invasive procedures that deliver transformative, long-lasting results with minimal discomfort and downtime. The clinic’s unique approach to thread lifting, which uses the stable area behind the ear as a fixed point, ensures a more secure and natural lift, while carefully avoiding major nerves and blood vessels to minimize pain and bleeding. With a strong commitment to personalized care, transparent communication, and patient safety, Haru Clinic is the ideal choice for those seeking effective solutions for stretch marks and buttock contouring that combine advanced technology with artistic precision.

Why Haru Clinic is the Best Choice for Stretch Marks and Buttock Treatments in Korea:

• Unique thread lifting technique using the area behind the ear for a stable, long-lasting lift.
• Precise skin lifting that prevents enlargement and creates smooth, natural contours.
• Minimizes discomfort by avoiding large nerves and blood vessels during procedures.
• Led by Dr. Jeong, a Merz-certified expert who trains other doctors in advanced filler techniques.
• Customized treatment plans focused on harmony, balance, and natural rejuvenation.
• Comprehensive non-invasive procedures that rival surgical results with minimal downtime.
• Specialized body lift treatments including the Apple Hip Lift for enhanced buttock shape.
• Combination therapies like Bodyline Care that target fat reduction, skin elasticity, and body contouring.
• Strong emphasis on patient safety, transparent communication, and personalized service.
• Conveniently located in Gangnam, a hub for cutting-edge aesthetic medicine in Seoul.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, is a premier destination for advanced cosmetic procedures, including specialized treatments for stretch marks on the buttocks. The clinic is renowned for its team of highly skilled surgeons, including Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee, who bring decades of combined expertise in plastic surgery. Their commitment to blending natural beauty with functional enhancement ensures personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. THE PLUS offers a comprehensive approach, from initial consultation to post-operative skincare, all within a modern facility designed to provide comfort and privacy.

At THE PLUS, patient safety and satisfaction are paramount, supported by a team deeply involved in ongoing medical research and education. The clinic’s surgeons are internationally recognized leaders, frequently sharing their knowledge at global conferences and contributing to the advancement of plastic surgery techniques. For those seeking effective and lasting solutions for stretch marks on the buttocks, THE PLUS combines cutting-edge technology with artistic precision, delivering results that restore confidence and enhance natural contours. Whether through innovative laser treatments, skin resurfacing, or tailored surgical options, THE PLUS stands out as a trusted choice for stretch mark care in Korea.

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

Undergoing a Butt Thread Lift in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Journey

Why South Korea for Cosmetic Procedures?

South Korea is known as the "plastic surgery capital of the world," thanks to high procedure volumes, skilled surgeons, and advanced technology. Competitive industry and lower costs make procedures more affordable than in Western countries.

Clinics often have board-certified specialists, multilingual support, state-of-the-art facilities, and international accreditations like JCI. The country offers a comprehensive medical tourism infrastructure, including 3D imaging, AI planning, airport pick-up, dedicated patient managers, luxury accommodations, and cultural tours, ensuring a seamless, comfortable experience.

The Medical Tourism Process: From Consultation to Aftercare

1. Initial Planning and Virtual Consultations: Patients start with virtual consultations using 3D imaging and AI to visualize results. Agencies like All About Seoul, Beauty Hopper, and Bookimed assist with clinic selection and reservations.

2. Pre-Operative Assessments: Health tests and instructions (e.g., smoking cessation) are provided. International patients prepare documents like ID, insurance, visa, flight, and hotel bookings.

3. Procedure Day: Surgeon marks target areas; local anesthesia and sedation are administered. Threads are inserted through small incisions and tightened to lift the buttocks. Procedure lasts 45 minutes to 2 hours.

4. Post-Operative Care: Patients receive medications, compression garment instructions, and recovery guidelines. Rest is advised for 24-72 hours; strenuous activity and pressure on the area should be avoided for 2-3 weeks. Hydration, clean skin care, cold compresses, and avoiding alcohol and smoking support healing.

5. Follow-up and Long-Term Care: Follow-ups are included in care packages. Threads dissolve in 6-12 months; collagen effects last 1-2 years. Repeat treatments may be needed.

Navigating Medical Tourism Agencies and Support Services

Agencies like Bookimed, All About Seoul, and Beauty Hopper provide:

• 24/7 multilingual support and dedicated coordinators.

• Clinic and doctor vetting and recommendations.

• Travel logistics, accommodation, and appointment management.

• Transparent pricing and coverage of some medication costs.

• Cultural tours to enrich the experience.

These services aim to make medical tourism easy, stress-free, and enjoyable.

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

Estimated Costs in South Korea

Thread lifts in South Korea typically cost $700 to $2,000 USD, depending on thread number (about $10-$20 per thread). Buttock implants range from ₩10,000,000 to ₩13,000,000 KRW ($7,500 to $9,800 USD). Buttock lifts (including thread lifts) average $4,002 to $6,800 USD, with an average of $5,401 USD.

Price variations depend on surgeon expertise, thread type and quantity, procedure complexity, clinic location, and ancillary costs like consultations and medications. International patients must also budget for flights ($600–$1,500), accommodation ($30–$500 per night), daily expenses, and supplies.

Cost Comparison with Other Countries

• USA: Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) costs $7,000 to $12,000; thread lifts $2,000 to $4,000 per session. Higher costs reflect living expenses and overhead.

• Turkey: Buttock lifts range $1,250 to $3,619; BBL $3,500 to $6,000. Packages often include transfers and accommodation, offering 50-70% savings versus US/UK.

• Mexico: BBL costs $3,000 to $6,000, with some full-service packages available.

Summary:

Country	Procedure Type	Price Range (USD)	Average Price (USD)
South Korea	Buttock Lift/Thread Lift	$4,002 - $6,800	$5,401
Turkey	Buttock Lift/BBL	$1,250 - $6,000	$3,619 - $4,833
Mexico	BBL/Buttock Lift	$3,000 - $6,000	$4,600
USA	Thread Lift/BBL	$2,000 - $4,500 / $7,000 - $12,000	$8,686 (BBL)

South Korea offers advanced technology, expert surgeons, and comprehensive support at competitive prices, making it a strong choice despite sometimes higher costs than Turkey or Mexico.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Addressing buttock stretch marks (striae distensae) is complex due to multifactorial causes and limited definitive treatments. Butt Thread Lifts provide a minimally invasive option to improve skin quality and appearance by lifting and stimulating collagen. While patients report high satisfaction, it’s important to understand that thread lifts do not directly repair stretch marks but may reduce their visibility through overall skin improvement.

South Korea stands out as a top destination for this procedure, offering skilled surgeons, advanced technology, and excellent patient support at competitive prices. However, results are temporary (1-3 years), requiring repeat treatments and long-term financial planning.

Recommendations for Patients:

1. Seek Expert Consultation: Discuss goals and realistic outcomes with board-certified specialists experienced in thread lifts and stretch mark treatments.

2. Manage Expectations: Understand thread lifts improve skin firmness and texture but are not a direct cure for stretch marks. Consider combining with other proven treatments like lasers or PRP.

3. Plan for Maintenance: Results are temporary; be prepared for repeat procedures and associated costs.

4. Use Medical Tourism Agencies: For South Korea, reputable agencies provide valuable support, transparent pricing, and logistical assistance.

5. Follow Recovery Guidelines: Strict adherence to pre- and post-procedure instructions is vital for safety and optimal results.

6. Prioritize Quality and Safety: Choose experienced practitioners and accredited clinics to ensure high standards of care.

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References

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