What are PDO threads?

PDO threads is a procedure that uses a dissolvable suture to tighten and lift your skin. It’s a less invasive procedure than facelift surgery and can often be performed in under 45 minutes without needing to go under a scalpel.

Polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifts use a biodegradable polyester suture. They’re best suited for rejuvenating your skin while some newer types of thread lifts are better at lifting sagging skin.

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What makes PDO threads different?

PDO threads are one of three types of sutures commonly used in thread lift procedures. The other two types are made from polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCA).

PDO threads have been around the longest of the three and have been used in surgeries since the 1980s. They’re made from a colourless polyester that breaks down in your body after about 6 months.

The presence of these sutures in your skin triggers cells in your body called fibroblasts to produce more collagen. Collagen is the protein that gives your skin its structure and elasticity. Loss of collagen is one of the main causes of aging skin.

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PDO threads can be further divided into three categories:

• PDO mono threads. Smooth sutures that help rejuvenate your skin by stimulating collagen production.

• PDO cog threads. These threads have barbs that latch into your skin like small fishhooks, to provide support and lift parts of your face.

• PDO screw threads. Made up of one or two intertwined threads, these are used to help restore volume to sunken parts of your skin.

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Potential PDO thread lift complications

PDO thread lifts have a much lower risk of complications than facelift surgeries. There’s less risk of scarring, severe bruising, or bleeding when performed by a trained professional.

Minor complications occur in 15 to 20 percent of procedures but are usually easily corrected. Potential complications include:​

• pain

• minor bruising

• infection

• accumulation of blood (hematoma)

• dimpling (orange peel-like skin texture)

• inflammation

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What areas of the face can a PDO thread lift treat

A thread lift can treat most parts of your face that are experiencing signs of aging. The areas around your cheeks, jaw and neck are among the most commonly treated areas.

Because the results of thread lifts aren’t as drastic as the results of facelift surgeries, thread lifts are commonly used together with other anti-aging procedures such as dermal fillers.

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How long does a PDO thread lift last?

PDO Threads tighten and firm the skin. Treatment results are seen in 8-12 weeks and last up to 12 months. As the threads dissolve over time, they stimulate collagen and elastin production to achieve a complete anti-ageing effect. To ensure optimum results, we recommend a maintenance treatment at 12 months after your initial treatment.

Younger people tend to have results that last 3 to 4 years. Older people with poor skin volume or elasticity tend to only see benefits for 1 to 2 years.