PDO threads are synthetic, dissolvable threads made of strong polyester, polydioxanone, a chemical compound commonly used for making biodegradable sutures used in surgeries.
PDO threads are also used for non-surgical and non-invasive cosmetic treatments to reverse the signs of ageing on the face and neck region. The PDO face and neck lift treatment improves the texture, volume and contour of the skin, making it look younger.
PDO thread lift treatment has gained much popularity, and it is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic treatments around the globe. Let’s understand more about these threads and their use.
What Are Different Types Of PDO Threads?
PDO threads are of different types, each specific in terms of thickness, length, tensile strength, anchoring points, etc. These include;
- Floating threads
- Non-barbed threads
- Mono-filament threads
- Braided threads
- Barbed threads
- Unilateral vs Bilateral
- Unidirectional vs Bidirectional vs z-type
- Cutting barbs vs moulding barbs
Your doctor will select the best suitable one for you based on your lifting needs and skin rejuvenation.
What Are Different Uses of PDO Threads?
PDO threads are used in face and neck lift treatment to improve the aesthetic appearance. The following areas can be treated by using PDO thread lifts;
- Eyebrows
- Under-eye areas
- Wrinkles in the periorbital skin (Crow’s feet)
- Cheeks
- Nasolabial folds
- Jawline
- Jowls
- Neck – etc
How Does Polydioxanone (PDO) Thread Lift Work?
When PDO threads are inserted and placed in the deeper layers of skin, they impart the following effects:
- Mechanical Skin Lifting: The barbs present along the PDO threads create a mechanical pulling force and tension that instantaneously lifts the skin’s loose and saggy portions.
- Collagen Production: PDO threads induce the skin cells to produce collagen, a protein responsible for providing strength and elasticity to the skin. Its production, in turn, fades away lines and wrinkles and improves the skin’s texture.
- Cellular Renewal: It rejuvenates the skin by causing the old and damaged cells to die while inducing the production of new cells for their subsequent replacements.
- Neovascularisation: New blood vessels are also formed in the skin. It improves the blood flow and increases the supply of nutrients to the skin cells.
- Skin Tightening: PDO thread lift contracts the fatty tissue, increasing the skin tone.
How is PDO Thread Lift Treatment Done?
The PDO thread lift procedure is done systematically in the following way;
Pre-treatment Assessment: Before the procedure, you will have a one-on-one meeting with your doctor to tell you about the changes required to improve the appearance of your skin and what results you can expect from this PDO thread lift procedure. Your doctor will also assess your skin to determine the number and types of PDO threads to be used during the procedure.
Pre-operative Preparation: You will be asked to sit in a reclined chair on the procedure day. The doctor will disinfect your skin with the help of a disinfectant to reduce the risks of infection. A local anaesthetic will be injected under your skin. This will make the procedure pain-free.
Incision: A small incision will be made using a small needle. This creates the entry points for the insertion of the cannula.
Threads Placement: A sharp needle or blunt cannula is then inserted into the skin, which helps direct and place PDO threads into different layers of the skin. The surgeon will then anchor the threads into their place and pulls out the cannula. The extra length of threads is then cut off.
What is the Longevity of Results?
It varies from person to person and with age. Instant results can be seen soon after having the treatment. However, PDO threads dissolve within 6 to 9 months, after which the results start declining, becoming completely non-apparent after the passage of 1 year. So, you may have to undergo repeat or maintenance procedures after every 6 to 9 months.
Are There Any Side Effects of PDO Thread Lifts?
PDO thread lift is a highly effective and safe procedure with minimal side effects. Minor side effects are common, which either resolve independently or are easily dealt with. These include;
- Pain
- Bruising
- Swelling/inflammation
- Soreness
- Apparent sutures
- Collection of blood (hematoma)
Most of these side effects subside within 3 to 5 days.
Some side effects occur due to the technique and the type of thread used. These include;
- Surface depression or dimpling of the skin
- Asymmetrical face
- Thread displacement
- Thread expulsion
- Persistent pain
Serious side effects and complications are very rare. These include;
- Wound infection
- Formation of granuloma (hard nodule)
- Salivary gland or duct injury
- Parotid duct fistula
- Nerve damage
