PDO Thread Treatments Explained

What are PDO Threads?

Before going into what to expect, we need to briefly highlight what are PDO threads? PDO threads are absorbable sutures made from a biocompatible material. They are inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissues, as well as stimulating collagen production for skin rejuvenation. Over time, they dissolve, leaving behind a revitalized and more youthful appearance.

Before the Procedure

Consultation: You'll have a consultation with a qualified cosmetic surgeon, aesthetic provider, or dermatologist to discuss your goals, assess your skin's condition, and determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure.

Planning: The practitioner will plan the areas to target and the number of threads needed, considering your facial anatomy and desired outcomes.

During the Procedure

Preparation: The target area will be cleaned, and a local anesthetic will be applied to minimize discomfort.

Insertion: Using a fine needle or cannula, the practitioner will insert the threads beneath the skin. These threads have tiny barbs that latch onto the skin, allowing the practitioner to pull the skin tight.

Duration: The entire process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the areas being treated and the number of threads used.

After the Procedure

Immediate Effects: You may notice an instant lift in the treated areas, but optimal results will develop over the following weeks as swelling decreases and the threads settle into place. Longer lasting effects can be seen as a result of collagen production as the threads dissolve. (See  “When Can I See Results” section for more details)

Recovery: Downtime is minimal. Patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days. Mild swelling, bruising, or soreness around the treated areas is common but should subside within a week.

Longevity: Results can last up to a year, depending on the type of threads used and individual factors such as age, skin condition, and lifestyle. (See “How Long do Results Last” section below for more details)

Aftercare: Follow your practitioner's advice on aftercare, including avoiding vigorous exercise and facial massages for a short period to ensure the threads settle properly.

Thread Lift Risks and Considerations

While thread lifts are generally safe, there's a risk of complications such as infection, minor bruising, swelling, and in rare cases, thread migration or protrusion. Selecting a skilled and experienced practitioner minimizes these risks.

What Kind of Results Can I Expect?

One of the most appealing aspects of PDO thread treatments is the natural-looking results they provide. Unlike more invasive and permanent procedures, threads can enhance your appearance even after they dissolve. You can see gradual improvements as the threads stimulate collagen production. Your skin becomes firmer over time, resulting in a subtle yet noticeable improvement in facial contours.

The treatment evolves with your skin over time. While the immediate effects are visible, the collagen-stimulating properties of the threads continue to improve skin quality in the weeks and months following the procedure. Whether you're in your 30s seeking preventative measures or in your 60s looking to address signs of aging, threads can help you achieve your aesthetic goals with minimal risk and downtime.

When Can I Expect to See Results?

While some immediate improvement in facial contours may be noticeable right after the procedure, the full results typically become apparent gradually over the following weeks and months. This delay is to be expected as the swelling from the local anesthesia and treatment goes down and the threads have had a chance to settle into place. If you’ve ever seen dramatic lifts using PDO threads, providers will oftentimes calculate the inevitable falling of the threads from the tissue and gravity, so that the lift will be at the desired level even after the threads settle.

Typically, patients start to see best results within the first few weeks following the procedure, but some may experience it around two to three months after treatment. As the threads dissolve and the lift gradually starts to diminish, the threads stimulate collagen production to provide more volume and support underneath the skin. The threads fully dissolve in 6 to 8 months, but you may still notice gradual enhancement in skin firmness and elasticity from the collagen, leading to a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

How Long Do the Results Last?

While the duration of results varies from person to person, the effects of thread lift treatments typically last up to a year. After this period, the threads naturally dissolve, and the treated area gradually returns to its pre-treatment state. However, many patients choose to undergo maintenance treatments to prolong their results and continue enjoying the benefits of rejuvenated skin.

It's important to note that individual results may vary depending on factors such as age, skin quality, and the extent of treatment. Some patients may experience more rapid results, while others may require additional time to achieve their desired outcome. Patience is key when undergoing thread lift treatments, as the collagen-building process takes time to unfold fully.

Thread Lift Before and After Results

Let's examine some before-and-after images to truly grasp the potential of this procedure. (Please note: These thread lift before and after pictures were taken immediately after treatment, with the best results usually visible around two weeks post-procedure.)

Targeting her neck and jowls, the patient underwent a procedure that reduced and tightened her skin, resulting in the reduction of nasolabial folds, jowls, and a more defined jawline.

This treatment represents a modern approach to facial rejuvenation. By naturally stimulating collagen production and gently lifting sagging tissues, it offers yet another way to revitalize your appearance with minimal intervention. If you're considering options for a more youthful and refreshed look, PDO threads stand out as a promising solution, unveiling gradual results that highlight your natural beauty. Take the first step towards revitalizing your appearance and explore the transformative possibilities of PDO thread treatments today.