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Unveiling The Wonders Of Pdo Threads: What Are They, And How Do They Work?

Skin care

2023-03-24

Last Updated On: 2024-01-12

This article delves into the world of minimally invasive cosmetic treatment of PDO lifting threads. What are PDO threads? How do they work? Do they have contraindications?

Doctor Medica team

PDO threads are a non-surgical cosmetic procedure used to lift and tighten sagging skin. PDO stands for Polydioxanone, a synthetic absorbable suture widely used in medicine for many years. Recently, PDO threads have gained popularity in the aesthetic field due to their ability to provide a natural-looking lift to the skin.

PDO threads create a scaffold that supports and lifts the tissue under the skin. 

These threads can treat various areas on the face and body, including the cheeks, jawline, neck, and décolletage. In addition, PDO threads lift eyes and can also improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and lift and tighten sagging skin.

Thread lifting is a procedure in which temporary stitches are used to create a subtle but noticeable “lift” of the skin. Instead of surgically removing loose skin from the patient’s face, the doctor simply suspends it by sewing up the areas. This leads to the skin being slightly pulled back and tightened. 

In addition to the fact that threads are ideal for skin tightening, they fight aging in another way. They provoke the “healing reaction” of the body, causing it to direct large flows of collagen to the treated areas. This is important because collagen plays a vital role in the aging process.

However, PDO threads are not the only type of thread for thread lifting. Other materials are also used for thread production; they differ in composition, longevity, and lifting effects.

PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid) threads are made of a biocompatible and biodegradable material that stimulates collagen production. These threads are often used for treating cheeks, temples, and jawline.

Poly-L-lactic acid threads are also absorbable and stimulate collagen production. However, they are thicker than PDO threads, and the results can last up to two years. PLLA threads are suitable for patients who require a more substantial lift and have more significant sagging or wrinkles.

PCL (Polycaprolactone) threads are often used to treat the neck, jowls, and nasolabial folds. Polycaprolactone threads for the face are non-absorbable, meaning they do not dissolve and remain in the skin. Like PDO threads, they stimulate collagen production but provide a more prolonged lifting effect than PDO threads. 

In summary, PDO threads are the most commonly used type of thread due to their versatility, affordability, and low risk of complications. PLLA and PCL threads provide a longer-lasting lifting effect but have a higher risk of complications. The choice of thread for the procedure depends on the patient’s needs and goals.

PDO thread lift cost depends on the thread type used and the procedure area: the more threads your patient needs, the more expensive the treatment will be.

Types Of PDO Threads

There are different types of PDO threads used in cosmetic procedures. The main differences between the types of PDO threads are their thickness, length, and configuration.

  • Mono Threads: These are the thinnest type of PDO threads used for superficial fine lines and wrinkles. They are a single, straight thread inserted under the skin to provide support and lift.
  • Screw Threads: These are thicker and more twisted than mono threads: They are used to treat deeper wrinkles and provide a more noticeable lift. The twisted design of the thread creates a strong anchoring effect, providing more support and stability.
  • Cog Threads: These threads have tiny barbs or cogs designed to grip the tissue under the skin, creating a more substantial lifting effect. They are used for moderate to severe sagging skin and can provide a more dramatic improvement in the appearance of the skin.
  • Barbed Threads: These are the thickest PDO threads with larger, more pronounced cogs or barbs. They are used for the most severe cases of sagging skin and provide the most substantial lift and support.

In addition to the types mentioned above, PDO threads have different lengths and thicknesses; they can be used for specific areas of the face or body. 

Patient needs and desired outcomes will determine the type, length, and thickness of the thread.

Can Thread Lifting Be Compared To Botox?

PDO threads and Botox are two different treatments with different mechanisms of action and effects. Botox temporarily paralyzes the muscles responsible for wrinkles, while PDO threads physically lift and tighten the skin.

Whether PDO threads are better than Botox depends on the patient’s needs and concerns. PDO threads are typically used for lifting sagging skin and restoring volume. Botox is primarily used for treating wrinkles caused by muscle movement.

It is also important to note that PDO threads and Botox can be complementary treatments. For example, patients may receive PDO threads for lifting and firming the skin and Botox for treating dynamic wrinkles.

What Is the Best Age for PDO Threads?

No specific age is considered the “best” for PDO threads. The decision to undergo this procedure should be based on an individual’s particular concerns and goals, as well as their overall health and medical history.

PDO threads are implied to address various concerns, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and loss of volume. Most often, they are used by individuals in their 40s and 50s who are experiencing the signs of aging. Still, thread facelifts can be used for younger patients who want to enhance their appearance or address specific concerns.

Ultimately, the optimal age for PDO threads depends on an individual’s unique circumstances and goals. This should be determined in consultation with a qualified and experienced medical professional.

Benefits of PDO Threads In Cosmetology

Here are some advantages of PDO Threads:

  1. Non-invasive: PDO threads offer a non-invasive alternative to facelift surgery. They are inserted into the skin using a fine needle, requiring no incisions or general anesthesia.
  2. Collagen stimulation: As we age, collagen production slows, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles. PDO threads help reverse this process by stimulating collagen production, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
  3. Natural-looking results: PDO threads provide natural-looking results lasting up to 2 years. The threads are made from a biocompatible material naturally dissolved by the body over time, leaving behind a new network of collagen fibers.
  4. Versatility: PDO threads can lift and tighten sagging skin on the face, neck, and body. They can also improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and create a more defined jawline and cheekbones.
  5. Minimal downtime: Unlike facelift surgery, PDO thread treatments require minimal downtime. Typically, patients return to normal activities within a few days of treatment.

Contraindications For Facial Threading

While PDO threads are generally safe and have a low risk of complications, there are some contraindications to consider before undergoing the procedure. These include:

  1. Blood clotting disorders: People with blood clotting disorders, such as hemophilia or a history of deep vein thrombosis, should not undergo PDO thread treatment.
  2. Autoimmune disorders: Patients with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, should avoid PDO threads. There is a risk that they can trigger immune responses and worsen the condition.
  3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  4. Allergies: Patients allergic to any of the components of PDO threads should not undergo the procedure.
  5. Active skin infections or diseases: Individuals with active infections or diseases of the skin, such as herpes simplex, should avoid PDO threads for the face and body until the condition has resolved.
  6. Scarring or Keloids: Individuals prone to scarring or keloids may not be good candidates for PDO thread treatment.
  7. Uncontrolled diabetes: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes may have impaired wound healing and should avoid PDO thread treatments.

It is essential to discuss your patient’s medical history and any potential contraindications with the patient before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, including PDO thread treatment.

How To Perform Facial Threading Using PDO Threads?

If you, as a doctor, are looking at incorporating PDO threads in your practice, you must undergo the necessary training and certification. A qualified and experienced medical professional should only perform the lifting procedure, as the treatment has potential risks and complications.

The procedure is painless and lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of threads installed. It can be performed with or without local anesthesia. The doctor will then mark the thread insertion points and the direction of their placement on the skin.

The PDO threads are inserted into the skin using a fine needle and can be placed in various patterns depending on the treated area. Once inserted, the threads stimulate the body’s natural healing response, which leads to the production of collagen and elastin fibers.

Over time, the body absorbs the threads, leaving behind the newly produced collagen and elastin fibers supporting the skin’s structure.

After the treatment, the doctor must give the patient aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment if needed.

What Are The Aftercare Recommendations For PDO Threads?

Some common aftercare instructions for threading facelifts include:

  1. No touching of the treated area for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
  2. Avoid makeup or other skincare products for the first 24–48 hours after the treatment.
  3. No strenuous exercise or physical activity for 1–2 weeks.
  4. No direct sunlight exposure and no tanning beds for 2–4 weeks.
  5. Sleep with the head elevated for the first few nights after the procedure. Avoid sleeping on the side or stomach for the first week.
  6. Take pain relievers as prescribed by the doctor to manage any discomfort.
  7. Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor the progress and ensure proper healing.

Following these and any additional instructions is vital in ensuring the best results and minimizing the risk of complications after PDO threading.

How Long Do PDO Threads Last?

The longevity of PDO threads varies depending on the individual and the treatment area. Generally, PDO threads can last from 6 to 12 months, sometimes even longer. 

The threads stimulate collagen production, which helps prolong the treatment results. Other factors, such as the type of PDO thread used, the skill of the practitioner, and the patient’s lifestyle and skin condition, may also influence the duration of the results. 

Discussing the expected results and longevity of the treatment with your patient before undergoing PDO thread treatment is essential.

Are There Any Disadvantages For PDO Threads?

While PDO thread lift has many benefits, there are some potential disadvantages and risks to consider, including:

  1. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort: It’s common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after the procedure, which may last several days. Pain medications and ice packs can help manage those symptoms.
  2. As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection. However, it can be minimized by a qualified and experienced practitioner and following proper aftercare instructions.
  3. Thread migration or breakage: The threads may sometimes migrate from their original placement or break, leading to uneven or unsatisfactory results.
  4. Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may be allergic to the threads or other treatment components.
  5. Limited results: PDO thread lift can provide subtle lifting and rejuvenation. However, it may not be as effective as surgical facelifts or other more invasive procedures for those with significant sagging or loose skin.

It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your patient before proceeding with any cosmetic procedure.

Conclusion

PDO threads offer a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option to achieve a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance without surgery, as well as being a great alternative to products like Botox. As a result, the PDO thread lift is a popular choice among patients looking to lift and tighten sagging skin without facelift surgery.

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