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What is a PDO Thread Lift procedure?

A Polydioxanone (PDO) Thread Lift procedure uses a biodegradable polyester dissolvable suture to tighten and lift sagging skin. It's a minimally invasive procedure to major surgery like a facelift and can often be performed in under 45 minutes without needing to go under a scalpel.

a girl undergoing a PDO thread lift procedure for skin rejuvenation

What are PDO Threads used for?

PDO Threads are used to rejuvenate and lift sagging skin and may reduce fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging collagen production for more volume in the treated areas. Thread Lift can be performed virtually anywhere on the body for multiple reasons. PDO Thread Lifts are performed to lift sagging skin in the jawline, jowls, nasolabial folds, upper face, midface, neck, loose skin on the upper arms, stomach, thighs, and around the knees. It can also be used to lift eyebrows and lift to the tip of the nose and create a narrower bridge. PDO Threads may also help stimulate hair growth by stimulating endogenous collagen production, elastin, hyaluronic acid, as well as activating fibroblasts in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia for six or more months. PDO Threads are also a favored treatment option for reducing the appearance of acne scars or for improving skin texture, such as crepey sun-damaged skin or loose skin under the eyes. Placing the threads under and around the scars promotes collagen production, which may help smooth the skin, thereby improving texture and minimizing scarring.

Who is an ideal candidate for treatment?

The ideal candidate for a PDO Thread Lift is an individual experiencing early signs of aging, such as mild wrinkling and sagging skin. Ideal candidates are individuals who desire a minimally invasive procedure with little downtime. Ideal patients are also in good overall health and are not pregnant or breastfeeding. The best way to know if PDO Threads are right for you is to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our providers.

a happy girl satisfied with the result of her PDO thread facelift treatment results

Who is not recommended for the treatment?

PDO thread facelift treatment

What are the PDO Thread Lift side effects?

PDO thread facelift treatment type

What are the different types of PDO Threads?

PDO Threads are produced by different manufacturers. There are 3 types of PDO Threads we use for your treatments.

  • Mono Threads: These threads are a type of single PDO filament that is smooth and made without barbs. They are inserted into the skin in a mesh-like pattern to achieve skin tightening effects as well as add volume. While mono threads tighten the skin, they do not significantly lift it. These skin tightening treatments use an average of 10 to 30 threads per treatment area to build collagen and rejuvenate sagging skin, improve crepey skin, minimize small wrinkles, and improve scars and skin texture.

  • Screw Threads: These threads have one or two threads intertwined around the inserting needle. When two threads are intertwined, the method is known as a "multi screw," and they help to reverse sunken areas and give the area a non-surgical lift.

  • Cog Threads: These threads contain barbs that attach to the underside of the skin. They are often used in combination with mono and screw threads to add support and structure to lift sagging tissue and skin. In the face, they are used to create a slimmer face.

Is there preparation for the treatment?

One to two weeks leading up to your treatment, you should avoid any new products or new treatments that could potentially irritate your skin. If you take blood-thinning medication, we'll ask you to stop taking that two days before your appointment. We also recommend that you refrain from alcohol the day before treatment. Individuals should review medical, surgical, medication, and allergy history with a provider prior to treatment.

What can I expect during the treatment?

The treatment is similar to Dermal Fillers injections. The treatments are simple and straightforward. The treatment area is cleansed and numbed for your comfort. Your provider will mark on your face to guide the placement of the PDO Threads during your treatment. Then the PDO Threads are placed just below and parallel to the surface of your skin using a small instrument (a thin cannula or needle). The line of suture material that is left beneath the skin becomes a thread that tightens up your face as it dissolves over time.

How long does the treatment take?

The entire process usually takes just 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery after a PDO Thread Lift is minimal. Most patients are able to return to work and most normal activities the same day or 1 day after the procedure with only minor discomfort. It is common for patients to experience minor inflammation and bruising, which typically resolves within 1 week.

beautiful girl with short hair looking young after thread lift treatment

Will the treatment hurt?

No. The great thing about PDO Threads is that the treatment is essentially pain-free. The treatment area is anesthetized beforehand, and you'll be comfortably reclined during your appointment.

How long before results are seen?

Most patients notice some improvement almost right away, especially when lifting threads are used beneath the skin, which will have an immediate lifting effect. Patients will start to notice full results around three weeks post-procedure when the skin has repositioned, and collagen has flooded the area as it is the body's natural injury response. Since treatment encourages collagen development, your skin will continue to improve over time, and the results will appear natural.

How long do PDO Threads last?

Most threads dissolve anywhere from six to nine months after your treatment, depending on the type of threads used. That means you'll notice some initial firming right away, with your results fully developing around six months. Results vary from patient to patient, but most enjoy their new look for as long as 18 months.

Are additional treatments needed?

A follow-up treatment every 12 months is the best way to maintain your results.

Can this treatment be combined with other cosmetic procedures?

Patients often combine treatment with PDO Threads with Dermal Fillers, Botulinum Toxin Injections, and other cosmetic services. Talk to your provider about your esthetic goals to set realistic expectations and design a complete treatment plan that may include more than one type of treatment, as well as recommendations on the timing and scheduling of various treatments.

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