PDO Threads

PDO threads are medical sutures made from biocompatible polydioxanone material.

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About PDO Threads

Overview

They are used in non-surgical facelifts, skin tightening, and contouring to lift sagging skin and stimulate collagen production.

A provider inserts the threads using a needle or cannula. The threads dissolve naturally, leaving a supportive collagen structure.

Advantages
  • Immediate results.
  • Minimal downtime.
  • Local anesthesia.
  • Gradual collagen stimulation lasting up to a year or more.

However, the results may not be as dramatic or long-lasting as those of surgical facelifts, and they may not be suitable for significant sagging or excess skin.

Pros
  • Non-surgical: Minimally invasive, reduced downtime and risks compared to surgical procedures.
  • Tightening and lifting: Immediate lifting effects and collagen stimulation for long-term skin rejuvenation.
  • Natural results: Subtle, youthful appearance without dramatically altering facial features.
  • Versatility: Targets various areas of the face and body for tailored treatments.
  • Long-lasting: Results can last several months to over a year due to collagen stimulation.
Cons
  • Temporary: Maintenance treatments may be required to sustain results.
  • Side effects: Temporary swelling, bruising, redness, and mild discomfort may occur. Rare cases may involve infection, thread migration, or visible extrusion.
  • Skill-dependent procedure: Experienced practitioners are required to minimize risks and ensure optimal results.
  • Not suitable for everyone: Certain medical conditions or excessive sagging/loose skin may affect candidacy.
  • Cost: PDO thread treatments can be relatively expensive compared to other non-surgical procedures.

Discuss the potential benefits, risks, and limitations with a qualified practitioner before making an informed decision based on individual circumstances and aesthetic goals.

What to Expect
  • Consultation: Discuss goals and develop a personalized treatment plan.
  • Preparation: Cleansing the treatment area and administering local anesthetic.
  • Thread insertion: PDO threads are inserted using a fine needle or cannula.
  • Thread placement and lifting: The practitioner adjusts threads, anchored by barbs or cones, for the desired lifting effect.
  • Completion: Excess thread ends are trimmed, and insertion points are covered if necessary.
  • Treatment duration: Typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.
  • Post-treatment care: Follow instructions to manage swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort.
Recovery

Healing after a PDO thread lift varies but generally involves:

  • Minimal downtime: Swelling, bruising, and tenderness usually subside within days to a week.
  • Resuming activities: Normal activities can typically resume within a few days, but avoid vigorous exercise and excessive strain on the treated area for a few weeks.
  • Long-term healing: Threads dissolve over time, and complete treatment effects may take weeks to months to become apparent as new collagen forms.

Potential Complications include:

  • Infection: Rare but possible. Follow post-treatment care instructions and notify your practitioner if signs of infection occur.
  • Thread migration: Improperly anchored threads or excessive movement of the treated area can cause suboptimal results or discomfort.
  • Visible or palpable threads: Threads placed too close to the surface or insufficient collagen formation can lead to raised or irregular texture under the skin.
Results

The longevity of PDO thread lift results varies depending on each individual’s response, lifestyle, and the number of threads used. Lifting effects typically last several months to more than a year. 

Lifting threads dissolve in six to nine months, and collagen deposition begins, strengthening the skin. Maintenance treatments may help sustain results, as PDO threads do not stop aging.

Practitioners recommend regular follow-up appointments to assess results and determine the need for additional treatments.

Safety Profile

A PDO thread lift may suit those with mild to moderate skin sagging who desire subtle lift and tightening without surgery. A qualified practitioner should assess candidacy, but general guidelines include:

  • Age: Commonly performed on individuals in their 30s to 60s, but suitability is based on skin laxity and aesthetic goals.
  • Skin laxity: Ideal candidates have noticeable sagging in areas like cheeks, jowls, jawline, brows, or neck.
  • Overall health: Good candidates are generally healthy without conditions interfering with healing.
  • Expectations: Understand PDO thread lifts provide subtle, natural-looking results.
  • Skin quality: Candidates with good skin elasticity and thickness have better outcomes.
  • Commitment: Willingness to follow post-treatment care instructions.
Cost

$500-$4,000, depending on body area, provider, and geographic region.

PDO Threads

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