PDO threads (Polydioxanone) threads are made up of a high-quality, suture-like material that has been used in surgery for decades. Over time, it has been discovered that this substance stimulates collagen growth and helps rejuvenate the skin. PDO threads are FDA-approved, safe, hypoallergenic, and are naturally absorbed by the body, completely dissolving in five to six months. PDO threads work by stimulating cells called fibroblasts to produce collagen, so when used in face lift procedures, after the threads dissolve, collagen networks are left behind.
The facelift option is an excellent choice for patients with mild to moderate jowl laxity, or patients who are not quite ready for a surgical facelift. There is minimal downtime associated with these procedures.
PDO threads work in two different ways. Some threads are designed to lift the tissue, while others are designed to smooth the skin and stimulate collagen growth. As we age, collagen is lost, and the primary goal of restoring tissue back to its youthful state is to restore this collagen loss and lift the tissue back to its earlier state.
After the provider performs the facial assessment, the threads are inserted through lidocaine-primed cannulas or needles. The process is quick, and often times the facelift procedure is nicknamed the “lunch-time facelift.”
Bruising can sometimes occur with smoothing threads but is not common with lifting threads used for the facelift. After the immediate lift, results will continue to improve as new collagen growth is achieved.
Generally, it takes around 6 months for the PDO threads to fully, and the stunning skin tightening and improvement of texture can last for up to two years, depending on lifestyle factors.
