What is a PDO Thread Lift?

PDO Threads are a safe and effective technique that involves introducing threads under the skin to stimulate collagen and tighten the skin. The threads are made of polydioxanone (PDO), which dissolve after 6 months and has a lasting effect up to 2 years. These threads can be used in combination with botulinum toxin, fillers and other skin rejuvenation treatments for best results.

 

The cog threads have an immediate mechanical lifting effect and both will continue to stimulate your own collagen over the next few months. Therefore the optimum results are expected 3 months later. PDO threads have 4 major benefits:

 

1. Once inserted, the threads anchor the skin and lift it upwards

2. Redefines facial curves and contours

3. Skin rejuvenation and tightening through stimulation of collagen

4. Improve skin texture through neovascularisation

 

The procedure is carried under local anaesthetic and takes between 45-60 minutes.

 

What is Polydioxanone (PDO)

 

Polydioxanone (PDO) is an extremely safe material used regularly in heart surgery, which encourages cell cohesion. PDO threads are absorbable and biodegrade after 6-9 months however the effect last for many more months.

 

What areas can benefit from PDO thread?

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• Cheeks

• Nasolabial folds

• Peri-oral smokers lines

• Jaw Line

• Jowls

• Neck

 

How many types of PDO threads exist?

 

There are 2 types of PDO threads that we use:

1. Mono/Screw Threads - stimulate collagen synthesis and provide a mild lifting effect 

2. Cog Threads - stimulate collagen synthesis and provide an immediate lifting effect.

 

Cog (Barbed) PDO threads are strong threads with strong lifting capacity. They anchor the skin and lift it up. 2-6 threads on each side are generally needed but it does depend on the individual.

Mono or Screw PDO threads are fine threads with a small lifting capacity. There are used for skin tightening and rejuvenation, where skin lifting is not necessarily needed. These threads are much cheaper than Cog PDO threads. These PDO threads can be used where lifting is not needed and we will work by tightening the skin. For example, these are very useful in the arms and abdomen.

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Are PDO threads lifting painful?

The area is covered with a numbing cream before being injected with a local anaesthetic. Once the local anaesthetic has taken effect, the PDO threads are introduced with minimal discomfort.

 

Is there a risk of bruising?

We use blunt cannula rather than needles to introduce PDO threads under the skin. Blunt cannulas avoid blood vessels and important structures, unlike sharp needles that would cut through them. Alongside a good technique, PDO threads are introduced with minimal risk of bruising. However, you must be aware that with any aesthetic procedure, you may experience bruising and/or swelling.

 

How long does it take for PDO threads to work?

The lifting results are instant. However, the best results are obtained after 3 months as PDO threads also stimulate the production of collagen, which help to tighten and lift the skin.

 

How much time does the procedure take?

PDO threads treatment can take between 30-60 minutes.

 

How long PDO threads lifting last?

PDO threads effect should last up to 2 years depending on the quality of your skin and your lifestyle. It is best to have an annual review and repeat the procedure once a year if you would like to keep the lifting capacity at its peak.

 

What are the side-effects?

PDO threads are very safe and complications are rare.

• Swelling

• Bruising and haematoma

• Infection

• Foreign body reaction

• Injury to arteries or veins

• Migrations of the threads

• Facial nerve trauma

• Asymmetry

• Pain

• Allergy to PDO threads (very rare)

• Scarring for the track of the tread

• Pigment changes – avoid the sun at least for 4 weeks post-treatment

• Further treatment might be required to achieve the desired results

 

Contraindications

You may not be suitable for treatment if you have any of the following:

• Active acne or skin infection

• Keloid predisposition

• Auto-immune disease

• Anti-coagulant medication

• Haemophilia

• Pregnancy/ IVF treatment/ breastfeeding

• Active cold sore

• History of bacterial endocarditis

• Chemotherapy

• Allergy to Lidocaine

• Previous allergy to PDO threads

 

Pre-treatment instructions

• Avoid wearing makeup before treatment to reduce the risk of infection.

• It is important to avoid anti-inflammatory medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac sodium) for at least 5 days prior to treatment unless it is prescribed for a medical indication. Similarly, avoid alcohol for 48 hours prior to treatment as this increases the risks of bruising and bleeding. Arnica may be taken 5 days prior to treatment to lessen the risk of bruising.

 

Aftercare instructions for PDO threads.

• You might notice tightness and tenderness around your face for a week. Some redness and bruising might also be noticeable.

• Avoid anti-inflammatories (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac sodium) for pain as this increase bleeding, if necessary take paracetamol.

• Avoid applying cosmetic to the treated area for 24 hours.

• Try to sleep on your back for the first week.

• Sleep on a soft pillow for at least a week.

• Avoid showering (washing or touching your face) for 24 hours after the treatment.

• Avoid vigorous or physically demanding activities for 5 days.

• Avoid alcohol for the next 48 hours.