Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are biodegradable cosmetic threads mainly used to lift the skin and encourage collagen production.
Different types of PDO threads
Each patient has unique cosmetic concerns such as sagging skin, volume loss, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation in the wrinkled areas. Hence, a qualified health practitioner can identify your specific needs and give you the correct PDO thread type.
There are many types of PDO threads, such as:
PDO mono threads: also called smooth threads, are types of sutures that boost collagen production to provide more volume to the wrinkled area
PDO cog threads: are composed of barbed threads shaped like a fish hook that can attach to the dermis of your skin, providing an instant mini-lift
PDO screw threads: comprised of one or two intertwined threads to lift small refined areas such as under the lateral eyebrow, corners of the nose and mouth as well as the chin
There are newer types of threads such as PCA and PLA, which last longer in the body and provide more collagen production. However, PDO threads are better at repositioning and rejuvenating the skin tissues, while PCA and PLA are better at lifting the sagging part of your skin.
The PDO process outline
Before Treatment:
Consultation: Commencing with a consultation led by a qualified practitioner, this stage involves outlining your objectives and assessing suitability for PDO thread treatment.
Medical History: Detailed inquiries into medical history, encompassing underlying health conditions and current medications, ensure procedural safety.
Treatment Plan: Tailored to individual needs, the treatment plan outlines targeted areas, thread quantities, and expected outcomes.
Preparation: On treatment day, arriving with a clean face is typically advised. The treatment area undergoes cleansing, with the potential application of local anesthesia or numbing cream for comfort. Please ensure to avoid the sun as much as possible and minimise taking over-the-counter blood thinners.
During the Procedure:
Thread Insertion: PDO threads are delicately inserted beneath the skin via thin needles or cannulas, strategically placed to lift and tighten targeted areas.
Duration: Procedures typically span 30 minutes to an hour, contingent upon treatment extent and required thread quantity.
After PDO Threads:
Immediate Results: Initial improvement in skin tightness and lift may be observed immediately, with full results unfolding over subsequent weeks as collagen production initiates.
Recovery: Minimally invasive, PDO thread treatment allows swift resumption of daily activities. Possible temporary side effects like swelling or bruising can be managed with cold compresses and pain relief.
Long-term Results: The longevity of PDO thread effects varies, with results lasting from months to over a year. Maintenance treatments may be advised for sustained outcomes.
Image before and immediately after PDO face lift.