Looking for a way to rejuvenate your appearance without undergoing surgery? PDO threads might be the solution you need. These minimally invasive threads are necessary for their capacity to lift and tighten sagging skin, offering a refreshed and youthful look. Made from polydioxanone, a biodegradable material used in medical sutures, PDO threads provide an immediate lifting effect and stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and elasticity over time.
Whether targeting the face, neck, or other areas prone to sagging, this innovative treatment could be the key to achieving your aesthetic goals.
What Are PDO Threads?
PDO threads, or polydioxanone threads, are specialized medical sutures repurposed for aesthetic treatments to lift and tighten the skin. Originally used in surgeries, particularly cardiovascular procedures, these threads are made from a biodegradable polymer that the body can safely absorb over time. Their application in cosmetic treatments is due to their ability to provide structural support and promote skin rejuvenation.
These threads come in various forms, including smooth, twisted, and barbed types, each designed for specific cosmetic objectives. Smooth threads are generally used to enhance skin texture and minimize fine lines, whereas barbed threads are utilized for their capacity to lift and support sagging skin. The versatility and biocompatibility of PDO threads make them a favored option for those seeking non-surgical methods to achieve a youthful appearance.
By leveraging their structural properties and gradual absorption by the body, PDO threads offer a dual benefit of immediate skin lifting and long-term improvement in skin firmness and texture through collagen stimulation.
How Do PDO Threads Work?
The science behind PDO threads lies in their composition and the body’s response to them. PDO, or polydioxanone, is a biodegradable polymer that has been safely used in medical sutures for many years. When inserted into the skin, the threads act as a scaffold, providing structural support to sagging tissues. This instantaneous mechanical lifting action helps minimize the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Over time, as the PDO threads gradually dissolve, they stimulate the body’s natural healing response. This involves the production of new collagen around the threads. Collagen is a major protein that keeps skin elastic and tight, and having enough of it is necessary to have skin that looks younger. As the threads dissolve, this new collagen framework continues to support and rejuvenate the skin, enhancing its texture and firmness.
The dual action of PDO threads—immediate lifting and long-term collagen stimulation—makes them a highly effective treatment for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. The threads dissolve completely within six months to a year, but the collagen they stimulate can provide lasting results for up to two years.
The PDO Thread Lift Procedure
Before the procedure, a thorough consultation is conducted to assess the patient’s skin condition, discuss their aesthetic goals, and determine whether they are suitable for PDO threads. The practitioner will review the patient’s medical history and any previous cosmetic procedures to ensure safety and effectiveness.
On the day of the procedure, the treatment area is thoroughly cleansed to minimize the risk of infection. A topical or local anesthetic is applied to numb the area and ensure patient comfort during the thread insertion.
The PDO threads are inserted using a fine needle or cannula. The practitioner strategically places the threads under the skin in the areas needing lift and support. The type and number of threads used depend on the patient’s specific needs and the extent of the sagging skin. The threads are positioned to create a supportive framework that immediately lifts the skin.
The practitioner modifies the threads after they are in position to get the required lift and contour. The insertion locations are cleaned, and any extra thread is cut. Depending on the area to be treated and the quantity of threads utilized, the process normally takes between thirty and sixty minutes.
Safety and Side Effects
PDO threads are made from polydioxanone, a biodegradable polymer that has been used safely in medical sutures for decades. This material is biocompatible and gradually dissolves within the body, reducing the risk of long-term complications. The procedure itself is minimally invasive, avoiding the significant risks associated with traditional surgical facelifts.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of PDO thread lifts include:
- Swelling and Bruising: Minor swelling and bruising at the insertion sites are typical and usually subside within a few days to a week.
- Discomfort: Some patients may encounter mild discomfort or pain in the treatment area, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Redness: Temporary redness at the points where the threads were inserted is common but generally fades quickly.
Less Common Side Effects
Less common side effects, which are usually temporary, include:
- Infection: As with any procedure involving skin punctures, there is a risk of infection. Following proper aftercare instructions and ensuring a sterile environment during the procedure can minimize this risk.
- Thread Migration or Visibility: Sometimes, the threads may become visible under the skin or shift from their original placement. The practitioner can often correct this, but it may require additional treatment.
- Asymmetry: If the threads are not placed evenly, there might be some asymmetry, though this can usually be adjusted during follow-up appointments.
How to Maximize Safety
By following these guidelines, you can significantly maximize the safety and effectiveness of PDO thread lift procedures, ensuring a smooth experience and optimal results.
- Immediate Aftercare: Follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner, such as avoiding strenuous activities, excessive facial movements, and exposure to extreme temperatures for at least a week.
- Medication and Care: To reduce swelling and discomfort, use prescribed medications and apply cold compresses as recommended. Proper care helps minimize side effects and promote healing.
- Monitor and Report: Monitor the treated area for signs of infection or unusual symptoms. Report any concerns to your practitioner immediately to address potential issues.
Takeaway
Ready to rejuvenate your appearance with a safe and effective PDO thread lift? Book or contact Calabloom Medspa for an assessment today. Our experienced practitioners will examine your skin and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Savor the advantages of a minimally invasive process that tightens and lifts your skin, promoting collagen production for outcomes that last.
