PDO Thread Lifts
A PDO thread lift is a cosmetic procedure to tighten facial skin for a younger appearance. It also stimulates your body’s natural collagen production. Collagen contributes to firmer, smoother skin and diminishes as you age. Stimulating collagen production encourages supple, glowing skin.
The “PDO” stands for polydioxanone, the synthetic thread material that pulls the skin tighter. This is the same type of dissolving thread often used in surgery. A PDO thread lift is an alternative to a traditional surgical facelift, which requires invasive surgery, longer recovery time, and higher potential risks.
What is a Thread Lift?
During a thread lift, our experts place sterile, medical-grade thread under your skin and gently pull the skin into the desired position. Barbs on the threads grab the underlying tissue and muscles as the threads tighten. The threads also trigger your body’s natural healing power and increase collagen production. Collagen fills in sagging skin and restores a more youthful elasticity to your face.
A thread lift provides a subtle, less obvious change than plastic surgery. However, the improved collagen production continues to deliver results for several weeks after the procedure, and there is little to no downtime after a thread lift.
The results of a facial thread lift typically last anywhere from one to three years, a testament to the effectiveness of the procedure. During this time, the DPO threads dissolve. You can have the procedure repeated if you like, although it is most effective on individuals between the ages of 30 and 55.
Types of Thread Lift
At Dr. Robert Arnold, we offer several types of PDO Thread Life for our patients, including:
- Cat’s Eye Thread Lift: We lift your eyebrows toward your temples, resulting in a cat-like appearance to the eyes.
- Eyebrow Thread Lift: We lift your furrowed or droopy eyebrows and tighten the skin.
- Nose Thread Lift: Depending on where the thread is placed, we can lift, straighten, or slim your nose.
- Neck Thread Lift: Threads lift loose neck skin and smooth neck folds.
Benefits of PDO Thread Lifts
- Increased collagen production.
- Smoother skin texture.
- Greater skin elasticity.
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
- Minimally invasive.
- Results last 2-3 years.
Side Effects
As with any cosmetic procedure, PDO threads can have temporary side effects, including mild bruising, swelling, redness, itching, or numbness at the treatment site, which go away in a few days. More serious complications may include inflammation, dimpling, hair loss, or injury to the salivary glands. In rare cases, infection, skin necrosis, or abscesses may occur.
Are You a Good Candidate for PDO Threads?
Thread lifts are most effective if you are experiencing early signs of aging in your late 30s to your early 50s. Keep in mind that the results will look natural and subtle rather than being a dramatic, overnight transformation. However, threads are an excellent way to smooth and firm your skin if you want to look younger without invasive surgery.
Because a PDO thread lift is a low-risk procedure, many people who are not eligible for a facelift (such as those with diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure) can undergo one. PDO threads are also an excellent way to refresh the results of a surgical facelift or neck lift when they begin to fade.
Is a Thread Lift Painful?
No. We apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area before inserting the threads beneath the skin. You may feel a gentle tugging sensation, but you will not experience any pain. Following the procedure, you may feel some soreness or mild discomfort. An over-the-counter pain reliever should be enough to alleviate any pain. You can also use cold compresses to minimize any swelling or bruising. Avoid washing your face for 24 hours, and do not use facial moisturizers for at least two weeks.
If you are interested in PDO Thread Lifting, please get in touch with our Med Spa at Robert S Arnold DDS Phone Number (903) 838-5263 and schedule an appointment with one of our skincare experts to learn more.