A minimally invasive solution for addressing skin laxity issues, offering a middle ground between daily creams and a full-blown facelift.
Aging gracefully is a beautiful concept, but for many, the reality of loose and sagging skin doesn’t align with how young they feel inside. As the skin loses its elasticity and firmness, many are searching for ways to restore skin firmness without resorting to surgery. This is where a PDO thread lift comes in.
What is a Thread Lift?
A thread lift, particularly the PDO (polydioxanone) thread lift, is a cosmetic technique that delicately lifts and tightens sagging skin tissues by inducing collagen production using threads made of PDO. These threads are the same used in medical suturing, completely biodegradable, and safely absorbed by the body over time.
The procedure involves inserting these fine threads into the subdermal layer of the skin using small needles. Once in place, they act as a scaffold, holding the skin in a lifted position. They also provoke the body’s healing response, causing it to ramp up collagen production in the treated areas, thus enhancing skin texture and elasticity.
How Does It Work?
The PDO thread lift treatment is relatively quick, typically taking about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. Your skin care practitioner will apply local anesthesia to minimize discomfort so you’ll remain awake and aware without feeling pain.
Lifting: Once the threads are in place, the practitioner gently manipulates the skin to achieve the desired lift. This lift is not only mechanical but also biological, as the threads induce a healing response in the skin.
Cellular Renewal: The presence of the threads in the skin triggers cells in your body called fibroblasts to produce more collagen. Collagen is the protein that gives skin its elasticity and firmness. As the skin heals around the threads, it becomes more taut and structured due to this new collagen.
Dissolution and Lasting Results: Over the subsequent weeks and months, the PDO threads will slowly dissolve, but the collagen that has formed in their place holds the skin in its new, rejuvenated position. This natural response not only helps to maintain the lift but also improves skin texture, firmness, and overall health.
By engaging the body’s regenerative capabilities, PDO thread lifts offer a dual benefit: an immediate lift from the mechanical placement of threads and a progressive improvement in skin firmness due to collagen stimulation. It’s this combination that allows for the long-term results that PDO thread lifts can offer.
Watch Dr. Young Perform a PDO Thread Lift Procedure.
How Long Does a PDO Thread Lift Last?
While not permanent, the results are impressively long-lasting for a non-surgical treatment. Typically, the aesthetic lift can be seen immediately after the procedure, with the contours of the face appearing more defined. The rejuvenating effects continue to improve over the next six months as collagen production progresses.
The longevity of the lift depends on several factors, including the age of the patient, the quality of their skin, lifestyle, and how well they care for their skin post-procedure. On average, the lifted appearance can last between 1 to 3 years. Over time, the threads will dissolve, but the collagen that has been stimulated in that period helps maintain the results even after the threads are gone.
How Many Sessions of PDO Threads Do I Need?
The number of sessions required for optimal results with PDO threads largely depends on your goals and the condition of your skin. Some may achieve their desired lift and firmness with just one session, while others might need additional threads placed in a follow-up session for more significant results.
How Much Does a PDO Thread Lift Cost?
The cost of a PDO thread lift is not one-size-fits-all—it can vary widely depending on the area being treated, the number of threads used, the practitioner’s experience, and geographic location. Generally, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $4,500 for a PDO thread lift. But then again, prices can vary.
Can You Smile After PDO Threads?
Yes, but don’t overdo it. Post-procedure, you may experience some mild tightness and discomfort, which could temporarily affect your facial movements, including smiling. However, this is generally short-lived. Most people are able to return to normal expressions and activities within a week or so.
It’s crucial to follow your provider’s aftercare advice to ensure the best healing and outcome. This may include avoiding excessive facial movements or extreme expressions immediately following the procedure to allow the threads to settle properly.
Is There Downtime After Getting PDO Threads?
One of the reasons for the popularity of the PDO thread lift is its minimal downtime compared to more invasive procedures. While there is some downtime, it is significantly less than that of a surgical facelift.
After the procedure, it’s common to experience some swelling, bruising, or soreness around the treated areas. These side effects are usually minor and subside within a few days to a week. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two but may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a couple of weeks.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re seeking to refine your jawline, elevate your brows, or restore that V-shaped visage of youth, Dr. Young and his team of practitioners can craft a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs and aesthetic desires.
Our Wilkes-Barre, Lehigh Valley, Lansdale, and Bala Cynwyd locations offer consultations for PDO thread lifts in our homey and state-of-the-art facility. Call us to book your appointment today.
PDO Threads Before and After
