PDO Threads
Guide
Noticing small signs of aging creeping in—maybe it’s those pesky jowls, deepened nasolabial folds or that sagging skin on your neck that’s been bothering you? If you are not quite ready for a full-blown facelift but need something more than what fillers can offer PDO threads may be the perfect solution for you.
What are PDO Threads?
Today, thread lifts are a whole different ball game from what they used to be. They’ve come a long way. They are made from polydioxanone (PDO), a material that your body can naturally break down and absorb without posing any risks. PDO threads have been trusted in the medical industry for about three decades, often used for the most delicate procedures such as heart surgery.
These handy threads aren’t just for the operating room, though. They have found their way into the aesthetics world, ‘magically’ helping lift and sculpt sagging skin.
How Do They Work?
Tiny needles insert the threads beneath your skin, where they get to work, providing structure and even a little lift to those areas that need it the most.
While the threads are under your skin, they will kickstart your skin’s natural collagen production. This leads to firmer, smoother, and stronger skin, all without the need for invasive surgery.
While the threads may fade after about 4-6 months, the collagen is there to stay for long-lasting improvements.
What Are the Benefits?
This innovative treatment comes with a host of benefits, including:
- Minimally invasive – The procedure is done in the office.
- Treatment only requires local anesthesia – No need to go under general anesthesia like facelift surgery! You’re set up to have a comfortable treatment with lidocaine alone.
- Lifts and smooths sagging skin – Tightens your face and neck for a more youthful facial structure!
- Improved elasticity and texture – Who doesn’t want smoother, firmer skin after the sun and aging process has left you with weak, loose, dull skin?
- Wrinkle reduction – Say goodbye to those pesky lines and creases.
- Brighter skin tone – Hello, radiant complexion!
What Areas Can They Treat?
We usually use threads to treat the face and neck, they’re versatile enough to firm up skin on various body areas.
Some of the most popular treatment areas for threads include:
- Cheeks
- Jawline
- Brow
- Lips
- Nose
- Neck
- Chest
- Breasts
- Upper arms
- Abdomen
- Knees
- Thighs
- Buttocks
What is a PDO Nose Thread Lift?
A PDO nose thread lift offers a nonsurgical solution to reshape your nose. Similarly to a nose job with filler, this treatment is often called a “nonsurgical nose job.” Results typically last up to 2 years, making it a convenient and effective option. Using PDO threads, this procedure can:
- Straighten out any inconsistencies along the nasal bridge
- Enhance the area on the top of the nose near the forehead
- Lift a drooping tip
During a nose thread lift, we strategically place either barbed or specialized nose threads to elevate and reposition the tissues of your nose. This straightens out the appearance of your nose, giving you a more defined and lifted appearance.
If you’re seeking minor nose corrections without committing to surgery just yet, a PDO nose thread lift might be right for you, or possibly a liquid rhinoplasty using dermal fillers.
During your consultation with the professionals at Simply.Aesthetics, we’ll walk you through all your options to find the perfect treatment plan during your consultation
How To Prepare for a Treatment
To minimize the risk of bleeding or bruising, preparing your body before your PDO threads treatment is essential. We recommend steering clear of alcohol, smoking, Advil, ibuprofen, aspirin, omega-3 fatty acids, and green tea for at least 5 days leading up to your procedure.
What is a Treatment Like?
Your thread lift appointment may last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of threads placed and their location. To ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, we’ll apply a mild local anesthetic called lidocaine to numb the area beforehand. This numbing effect will gradually wear off in the hours following your treatment.
How Long is Recovery?
There’s minimal downtime involved with PDO threads. You’ll start noticing the results immediately. After your treatment, you can immediately resume your normal activities. We recommend you avoid rubbing your face or strenuous exercise for the first 1 to 2 days.
How Long Do Results Last?
Typically, the lifting effects from PDO threads last anywhere from 6 to 12 months. This is because your body gradually absorbs the PDO material, and collagen production begins to slow.
A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that the longevity of thread lift results can vary widely. Depending on factors like age and skin condition, some patients have seen their results last anywhere from 1 to 9 years. Younger people tend to enjoy longer-lasting effects, while more mature people with diminished volume or skin elasticity may see benefits for 1 to 2 years.
Is a PDO Thread Lift Worth It?
Yes, a thread lift is often worth it, if you’re seeking moderate skin tightening or lifting without going under the knife.
However, you might achieve more dramatic, longer-lasting results with surgical procedures like a face and neck lift, tummy tuck or thigh lift, if you’re dealing with a considerable amount of loose skin on your face, neck, abdomen, thighs, or elsewhere.
Dermal Fillers vs. PDO Threads: Which Is Right For Me?
When it comes to choosing between dermal filler and PDO threads for nonsurgical rejuvenation, it depends on your specific goals. While dermal fillers have their own perks, a thread lift may be the better option, if your main aim is to lift or tighten your skin. Fillers work wonders for adding volume and structure, but threads are your go-to for combating the relentless pull of gravity and addressing more noticeable laxity.
Not sure which path to take to achieve your goals, just reach out to the experienced professionals at Simply.Aesthetics. We’ll gladly steer you in the right direction. Your satisfaction and confidence in your decision are our top priorities.
Pain, Safety & Risks
Are you concerned about pain with PDO threads? No need! We make sure you’re numb with lidocaine injections before we start, ensuring a comfortable experience without leaving you feeling drowsy the rest of the day. While you may feel a bit of pressure as the threads are placed, most people describe the sensation as a bit strange but tolerable.
You may be wondering, are PDO threads safe? Yes, PDO threads are among the safest materials used in the body, the same material used in major medical procedures like heart surgery! Plus, they are absorbable and biocompatible, meaning your body can break them down without issue.
As with any procedure, there are some risks to consider with PDO threads. While breakage is rare, it can happen if there’s excessive muscle movement, though it’s nothing to stress over as it won’t affect your appearance.
Rest assured, the chances of complications with PDO thread lifts are much lower than with surgical facelifts, with only minor issues such as visible sutures, mild bruising, or temporary pain being easily fixable. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), these complications only occur in around 15 to 20 percent of procedures.
If you ever suspect a thread may have snapped or migrated, please reach out to us and we’ll take care of it. Your safety is everything to us.
Ready to lift and tighten your skin without the hassle of surgery? Schedule your PDO threads consultation with the aesthetic professionals at Simply.Aesthetics in Manasquan today to discover if this treatment is right for you.