In recent years, aesthetic medicine has witnessed remarkable advancements in non-surgical techniques that offer practical and minimally invasive solutions for various cosmetic concerns. One such innovation that has gained significant attention is using PDO threads. The desire for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures is rising everywhere. Patients are always looking for office-based procedures that will help reduce the effects of aging without the morbidity associated with surgery. Lax tissue is lifted and replaced during thread lifting with polydioxanone (PDO) sutures to give the facial shape a more youthful appearance.
Let’s start by breaking down the details in a way that’s easy to understand.
What are PDO Threads?
PDO threads are made from a bioabsorbable material called polydioxanone, which has a long history of safe use in medical sutures. These threads are inserted into the skin to increase collagen production and improve the skin’s elasticity and texture. Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are thin, biocompatible threads used in a range of aesthetic procedures to lift and tighten the skin, providing a natural and youthful appearance without surgery.
What is a PDO Thread Lift, and How it Works?
A PDO thread lift is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure that provides a non-surgical facelift with remarkable results. Unlike traditional facelifts, PDO threads lift require no surgery and minimal downtime. These threads are gently placed in target areas, such as the cheeks, jowls, jawline, and neck, to restore volume, tighten sagging skin, and enhance facial contours.
Once the threads are in place, they serve as a foundation for the skin. But here’s where the magic happens: these threads stimulate collagen production. A collagen protein gives the skin structural support and helps keep it smooth, firm, and youthful-looking. Collagen production declines with aging, resulting in sagging and wrinkles. Over time, the threads dissolve naturally, leaving revitalized skin that appears firmer and more youthful.
What Areas Are They Used to Treat?
PDO threads can treat various face and body areas, offering tailored solutions for different cosmetic concerns. Here are the common areas where they are used to treat:
1. Face
- Cheeks: To lift and contour sagging cheeks, restoring youthful volume.
- Jawline and Jowls: To provide a more defined and lifted jawline, reducing jowls.
- Neck: To tighten and rejuvenate the neck area, minimizing the appearance of necklines and sagging skin.
- Brow Area: To lift sagging eyebrows and open up the eyes.
- Forehead: To reduce horizontal forehead lines and improve skin texture.
- Temples: To address sunken temples and restore volume.
2. Eyes
- Under-Eye Area: To improve skin texture, reduce bags, and provide a subtle lift.
- Crow’s Feet: To smooth out fine lines around the outer corners of the eyes.
3. Mouth and Lips
- Marionette Lines: To minimize the downturned lines around the corners of the mouth.
- Nasolabial Folds: To soften the lines between the nose and mouth.
- Lips: To enhance lip shape and improve vertical lip lines.
4. Body
- Décolletage: To tighten and rejuvenate the skin on the chest area.
- Arms: To address loose skin on the upper arms.
- Abdomen: To tighten and firm the skin on the abdomen.
- Thighs and Buttocks: to enhance contouring and skin laxity.
5. Hands
- Dorsal Hand: To enhance volume and improve the appearance of aging hands.
Types of Threads and their Function?
These PDO threads offer a diverse range of options to address various cosmetic concerns. These threads come in different types, each with a unique function and durability. Let’s take a closer look:
| Thread Type | Function | Skin Concerns | Durability |
| Monofilament Threads | Improve skin texture and tone | Fine lines, skin texture | 6 to 8 months |
| Cog Threads | Significant lifting in sagging areas | Sagging skin, wrinkles | 12 to 15 months |
| Screw Threads | Volume and lift, cheek contouring | Facial volume, contouring | 12 to 18 months |
| Tornado Threads | Combined lifting and collagen stimulation | Lifting, collagen boost | 9 to 12 months |
| Barbed Threads | Strong immediate lifting | Sagging eyebrows, jowls | 12 to 18 months |
| Tapered Threads | Subtle enhancements in delicate areas | Under-eye, fine wrinkles | 6 to 9 months |
| Smooth Threads | Collagen stimulation and skin texture | Overall rejuvenation | 6 to 8 months |
Is this a Safe Treatment?
PDO threads treatments are generally safe when performed by experienced medical professionals. The threads are made from materials well-tolerated by the body and have a history of use in medical procedures. However, it’s essential to understand that, like any medical intervention, there are potential risks to consider. These include a small risk of infection, temporary bruising and swelling, and the possibility of uneven results if not performed by a skilled practitioner.
Allergic reactions to PDO threads are infrequent due to their biocompatibility. In rare cases, the threads move slightly from their intended position. Consult a trained medical expert who can evaluate your suitability for the procedure, address any worries, and direct you through appropriate pre- and post-treatment care to achieve the best outcomes and reduce risks.
The Procedure of PDO Thread Lift
The PDO threads lift procedure can be broken down into three main phases: pre-procedure preparation, the actual procedure, and post-procedure care. Let’s explore each phase in detail:
1. Pre- Procedure:
Before undergoing a PDO threads lift, the process involves three key steps:
- A consultation with a qualified practitioner is vital: In this discussion, you’ll share your goals, medical history, and expectations for the procedure. Based on this information, the practitioner evaluates your suitability for the PDO thread lift.
- A personalized treatment plan is created: The practitioner tailors this plan to your needs and desired results, explaining the procedure, potential risks, and the anticipated experience.
- Preparation is essential: Depending on the treatment area, you might receive guidance to avoid certain substances like blood-thinning medications and alcohol in the days leading up to the procedure. This precaution helps minimize the risk of bruising, ensuring a smoother process overall.
2. During the Procedure:
Several vital steps ensure effective and comfortable treatment during the PDO threads lift procedure. Firstly, the treatment area is cleaned, and the area is numbed using a local anesthetic. This ensures your comfort throughout the procedure. Secondly, the practitioner skillfully inserts the PDO threads, with the aid of a tiny needle or cannula, beneath the skin. These threads are positioned strategically in specific directions to achieve the desired lifting and rejuvenation effects. As the threads are inserted, they serve a dual purpose: stimulating collagen production and providing an immediate lift to the treated area. This immediate lift creates a supportive framework for the skin, effectively addressing concerns like sagging and wrinkles. The combination of these steps contributes to the overall success of the PDO threads lift procedure.
3. Post-Procedure:
The post-procedure phase of a PDO thread lift involves essential steps to ensure optimal recovery and results. After the procedure, it’s common to experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are normal and usually diminish within a few days to a week. Your practitioner will provide detailed post-procedure guidelines to follow. These instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities, applying ice to the treated area, and maintaining proper hygiene. The initial lift from the threads is immediately visible, but the full effects unfold gradually over several weeks as collagen production is stimulated.
PDO Threads Before and After
Is this a Painful Procedure?
The PDO thread procedure is generally well-tolerated, with most individuals experiencing mild to moderate discomfort. Before the treatment, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area, minimizing potential pain. During the procedure, you might feel sensations like gentle tugging or pressure as the threads are inserted beneath the skin. After the treatment, you might feel mild soreness, bruising, or swelling may occur temporarily. Compared to more invasive surgeries, the discomfort associated with PDO thread treatments is typically mild.
What Treatments Can You Combine with Threads Lift?
Some common treatments that can be combined with thread lifts include:
- Dermal Fillers: Fillers can add volume to areas that threads, such as the lips, cheeks, and under-eye hollows, may not address. Combining fillers with thread lifts can provide a comprehensive rejuvenation.
- Botox or Dysport: Botulinum toxin injections can target dynamic wrinkles (caused by muscle movement) that threads may not directly address. Combining Botox or Dysport with thread lifts can provide a smoother and more youthful appearance.
- Chemical Peels: Peels can improve skin texture, tone, and pigmentation. Combining a chemical peel with a thread lift can yield overall skin rejuvenation.
- Microdermabrasion: This exfoliation treatment can enhance the texture and tone of the skin, working well in conjunction with thread lifts for improved results.
- Laser or IPL Treatments: These treatments can address skin concerns like pigmentation, redness, and texture irregularities, complementing the effects of thread lifts.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP uses your blood’s growth factors to stimulate collagen production, enhancing the effects of thread lifts.
- Skincare Routine: Maintaining a consistent skincare routine can prolong the results of thread lifts. This includes using products that promote collagen production and skin health.
Combining treatments should always be done under the guidance of a qualified dermatologist.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Threads Lifting?
The ideal candidate for PDO threads lifting is typically someone in their late 30s to early 60s, experiencing mild to moderate skin sagging and seeking a non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation. Candidates should have relatively good skin quality, specific concerns like sagging cheeks or jowls, and realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. Good overall health is important, and a consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine individual suitability.
Some Common Myths about PDO Threading
There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding PDO threading that are important to address. Let’s talk about some of the common myths:
- Myth: PDO Threads Are Painful: While some discomfort is expected during the procedure, PDO thread treatments are generally well-tolerated with local anesthesia. Most individuals report only mild to moderate discomfort.
- Myth: PDO Threads Are Only for Older People: PDO thread treatments are effective for a wide range of ages, from late 30s to early 60s and beyond. They address various levels of skin sagging and rejuvenation needs.
- Myth: Results Are Immediate: While some lift is visible right after the procedure due to the threads’ physical placement, the full effects of collagen stimulation become more noticeable over a few weeks as collagen production increases.
- Myth: Threads Are Obvious Under the Skin: PDO threads are ultra-fine and placed strategically under the skin. They are not usually visible once inserted. Any mild swelling or bruising post-procedure will subside, leaving natural-looking results.
Benefits of PDO Threads
PDO threads offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Some of its benefits are:
- Immediate lift right after the procedure.
- Increases collagen production for better skin volume and texture.
- Natural-looking results that enhance features subtly.
- Versatility to target various face and body areas.
- Minimal downtime, allowing a quicker return to daily activities.
- Customized treatment plans according to individual needs.
- Long-lasting effects lasting several months to over a year.
- Safe and well-tolerated due to biocompatible materials.
- Gradual transformation for a natural appearance.
- No general anesthesia is required, reducing risks.
- It can be combined with other treatments like fillers and Botox.
- Minimal scarring or visible marks due to tiny insertion points.
- High patient satisfaction with improved confidence and youthful look.
Thread Lift Complications and Risks
Before receiving therapy, being aware of these potential hazards is critical. The following issues and dangers could arise from lifting PDO threads:
- Infection risk at insertion points.
- Mild bruising and swelling post-procedure.
- Temporary discomfort or pain during and after the procedure.
- Possibility of visible or palpable threads.
- Risk of asymmetry or uneven results.
- Thread migration or displacement.
- Rare risk of allergic reactions.
- Formation of granulomas (small bumps or lumps) around threads.
- Potential for puckering or dimpling of the skin.
- Remote risk of temporary nerve injury.
- Possibility of dissatisfaction with the final appearance.
Cost of Thread Lift
The cost of a PDO threads lift depends on several variables, such as the location, the practitioner’s experience, the number of threads required, and the treatment area. On average, the cost of a PDO thread lift can range from $800 to $2,500 per treatment session. However, it’s important to note that this is a general estimate, and prices vary.
Final Thoughts
PDO threads have emerged as a transformative innovation, offering individuals an effective way to address mild to moderate skin sagging, wrinkles, and volume loss. It comprises biocompatible materials; these threads work beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate collagen production, resulting in natural-looking rejuvenation and enhanced skin texture. The procedure’s immediate lift, minimal downtime, and versatility for various treatment areas make it an appealing choice for those seeking a refreshed appearance without surgery. While PDO thread lifts offer promising results, consulting with an expert and knowledgeable practitioner who can evaluate your needs, explain potential benefits and risks, and suggest a treatment plan for optimal outcomes is crucial.