A PDO thread-lifting is an excellent way to rejuvenate your skin and achieve a more youthful appearance by reducing forehead lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

To lift and tighten skin, dissolvable PDO threads made of a synthetic material called polydioxanone are used. However, as with any medical procedure, you should take certain precautions before and after the PDO thread lift to ensure your safety and the best possible outcome.

Taking the time to properly plan and adhere to the post-treatment instructions can help to ensure that the desired results are obtained. The following guide will walk you through the steps to take before and after a PDO thread-lifting.

Things to Do Before a PDO Thread Lift Procedure

Discuss Your Medical History With Your Practitioner

Any previous cosmetic treatments you may have had are included in your medical history. It's also important to let them know if you've recently had any facial surgery or toxin injections, as this may affect your PDO threading results. Mention whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking blood thinners, or taking any medications for other medical conditions.

Stop Smoking

Smoking affects your overall health and can hinder the healing process after a PDO thread treatment. You'll need to stop smoking at least a week before the procedure and abstain during recovery.

Avoid Blood Thinners

Certain medications, including aspirin, ibuprofen, and some herbal supplements, can disrupt blood clotting. For at least two weeks before the procedure, avoid taking supplements such as vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and fish oils. These supplements may increase your chances of bruising following the PDO thread lift treatment. However, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without checking with your prescribing physician first.

Cleanse Your Skin

Cleanse your skin the night before your appointment with gentle products that do not contain scrubbing particles. This helps to ensure to minimize any irritation prior to the procedure.

Have Someone Drive You Home

PDO thread treatment is performed under local anesthesia, and while the side effects can be minor, they can cause lightheadedness and dizziness. It is recommended that you arrange for someone else to drive you home after the procedure for your own safety.

Avoid High-Intensity Exercise and Sauna Sessions

High-intensity exercises can increase blood flow to the face and body, resulting in swelling and bruising after treatment. Sauna heat and humidity can also increase swelling and bruising after treatment. Saunas can also cause skin sensitivity and increase the risk of complications.

Things to Do After the PDO Thread Lifting Procedure

Below is a list of what to do after a PDO thread-lifting procedure to ensure a safe and successful recovery:

1. Take it easy for the first day or two. Avoid strenuous activity, exercise, or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
2. Follow any instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare provider. This may include taking medications, avoiding heavy exercises like weight lifting, and scheduling follow-up appointments.
3. Follow a healthy diet and stay hydrated. This will help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
4. After the procedure, rest for the entire day and limit facial movements.
5. Apply ice or a cold compress to the treated area to reduce swelling and discomfort. Do this as directed by your practitioner.
6. Avoid washing your face for the next 24 hours after the procedure. When washing the face after the 24-hour period, avoid applying pressure on the skin.
7. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and exposure to secondhand smoke for at least 72 hours after the procedure, as these substances can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
8. Avoid sleeping on your face or applying pressure to the treated area. It is recommended to sleep in a supine position for the next 3-5 days.
9. Wait at least one month before getting any dental treatment.
10. Avoid deep facial massages for at least 6 months to prevent threads from disengaging. Resume laser treatments at least 1 month after the thread procedure
11. Follow up with your doctor or healthcare provider for any scheduled appointments or if you have any concerns or complications.
12. It's important to note that your practitioner will give you more specific instructions; follow them strictly for the best result.

What is the Downside of PDO Threads?

PDO threads are generally regarded as safe and effective, but they are not without risks. Infection, bruising, swelling, and pain are all possible complications with any medical procedure. Other risks include asymmetrical results and uneven thread distribution, which could result in an unnatural appearance. Overcorrection can occur in some cases, resulting in an unnatural appearance.

How Painful Is a PDO Thread Lift?

PDO thread lifts typically produce minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some people experience:

Temporary redness

Swelling

Bruising or tenderness afterward. 

Most side effects resolve within a few days. Depending on how many threads are used, there may be slight dimpling under the skin due to the placement of the sutures. However, these should dissipate within a few weeks.

Is PDO Threading Worth It?

If you're looking for a non-invasive, minimally-invasive way to lift and rejuvenate your facial features, PDO threads might be a great option. The procedure takes about an hour and provides immediate results that last up to one year, depending on your skin condition and the quality of the threads used.

Furthermore, because the procedure is minimally invasive and does not require general anesthesia, the recovery time is relatively short when compared to other surgical treatments. Overall, the advantages of PDO threading outweigh the disadvantages, making it well worth considering if you want to enhance your facial features without undergoing surgery.

Use MINT™ PDO Thread Products for the Best Value Thread Procedure

Overall, PDO threads provide a safe and minimally invasive alternative to cosmetic surgery for improving facial aesthetics. It's easy to see why this treatment has become so popular in recent years, given its quick results, low risk of complications, and quick recovery.

At MINT™ PDO, we specialize in offering dual FDA-cleared, high-quality PDO threads in the US market. If you'd like to learn more about this treatment, don't hesitate to reach out through hansusa@hansbiomed.com or give us a call at (562) 777-7043.