The PDO thread lift is one of the newest and most popular cosmetic procedures. In fact, over the forecast period, the market for aesthetic threads is anticipated to see a CAGR of 7.8% between 2022-2027.
PDO stands for polydioxanone, which is a type of synthetic surgical suture. The PDO threads are made of the same material as dissolvable stitches, which eventually dissolve over time.
PDO thread lifts offer several advantages over other types of cosmetic procedures, such as facelifts. Most doctors consider them to be a safe and effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance without the need for surgery. They are less invasive, have a shorter recovery time, and are less expensive.
However, one of the most common questions about these threads is whether or not they are permanent. It is important to note that PDO threads are not permanent. The threads will eventually dissolve over time, and the skin will return to its original position.
This blog post will explore the PDO thread lift to determine its longevity.
But first;
What Is PDO Thread Lift?
APDO thread lift is a minimally invasive nonsurgical cosmetic procedure used to lift and tighten sagging skin on the face, neck, and body. The process involves the placement of fine threads made of polydioxanone (PDO) material under the skin. The threads are then attached to the skin with barbs or anchors.
They come in three primary varieties: mono, cog, and screw threads. Each array type is for somewhat various usage and treatment. Doctors find the mono texture works well for most patients seeking skin tightening and rejuvenation.
The threads work by stimulating collagen production. And this results in facial rejuvenation.
How PDO Thread Lifts Work
A PDO thread lift is an easy- cosmetic procedure that works by lifting, relaxing, and then tightening your loose skin to counter the signs of aging. When performing a PDO thread lift, tiny needles extract small amounts of gel-like material from around fat cells in the body. This process happens by employing needles to attach and inject these threads into various layers of the skin; sagging skin is immediately lifted and tightened. Per segment, the plastic surgeon uses 1 to 15 threads.
Therefore, the PDO threads involve creating a small incision at the top of the cheekbone and inserting suture threads into it. Once placed, these threads will lift the facial skin. The process can take between 1-3 hours, depending on how many sutures the doctor needs to place and how deep into the skin.
Because the surgeon introduces them into the deeper layers of the skin, the threads have three effects on the skin:
- They cause an instant lift through mechanical impacts.
- Neovascularisation and collagen and elastin stimulation for cellular renewal to enhance suppleness, fine lines, and skin texture
- Skin tightening by causing fat tissue to contract
Since PDO threads are absorbable, they will vanish through simple hydrolysis about six months after the operation. Due to the cellular renewal effects, the raised facial features will continue to exist for 3-6 months. New collagen and blood vessels are induced in the skin cells, enhancing skin microcirculation. Additionally, the PDO threads stimulate the adipose tissue to contract, which tightens the skin and slims the face reducing signs of aging.
After the PDO treatment, natural oils will help keep the skin tight and smooth. You can expect results within one month, with most people noticing a reduction in excess bulging tissue and tighter, more lifted skin.
It is important to note that although this therapy is considered long-lasting, there is a chance that your skin could grow back thicker than it was before the procedure. That said, most patients report their skin staying improved past six months; without further scheduled doctor visits, the skin returns to its normal state.
So, are thread lifts permanent? Let’s keep diving in!
Are Thread Lifts Permanent?
Most people agree that thread lifts are a very effective way to reduce the appearance of loose, wrinkled skin. However, PDO threads may not work long-term! Usually, the threads dissolve after six months.
But for most doctors, the advantages of a PDO thread lift last between 12 and 24 months because of the increase in collagen formation! And they encourage patients to get more treatments to boost the effects even more.
Some studies claim that up to 70% of patients experience significant improvements with PDO thread lift treatment plans and believe them to be lasting. Unfortunately, this number is heavily influenced by the time patients remain in the clinic for repeated treatments.
Lengthy appointments allow for more intensive care of the patient’s health and help ensure better results. But it also means more opportunities for the procedure to fail when there’s a lack of maintenance.
It is important to remember that the skin will always require a healthy blood supply and moisture to function correctly. When these are limited, the body doesn’t quite know what to do with all of the dry, stressed-out tissue.
Dry, tight muscles can cause uncomfortable wrinkles, so ensuring your self-care routine includes enough water and rest help prevent complications.
Most plastic surgeons recommend that patients use a unique face wash twice a week and a soft, lukewarm towel to rinse off any leftover product. It keeps your skin hydrated and threads working well for a long. Make sure to apply some extra sun protection factor, or you want to avoid hyperpigmentation and inflammation.
What Should You Do Before and After a PDO Thread Lift for Lasting Results?
Signs of sagging skin on the face and neck are a call of concern for anyone that loves looking younger. PDO threads can repair fine lines and a deeply wrinkled face. And with any procedure, results are what people are after. But because PDO thread lifting doesn’t give permanent results as a surgical facelift surgery would, there are things plastic surgeons recommend to enhance the results.
- Patients must break from using the sauna and steam room. Heavy exercise and the steam room are not recommended when getting ready for a thread lift procedure.
- Two days before the procedure, avoid taking ginger teas, vitamin E, omega fish oils, garlic, chili ginseng, or krill. Additionally, several supplements are detrimental to the process. Avoid aspirin-containing products at all costs. These medications may result in bleeding or other undesirable consequences.
- Common vices among many people include drinking alcohol and smoking. However, patients must give up smoking and drinking for at least a week before the surgery if they want high-quality results. Doctors recommend avoiding these products because alcohol and smoking dry the skin, which it needs for the final healing.
Well, after the treatment, there are also some things to do as follows:
- Applying ice to the area for three to four minutes each day for five days if the skin expands following the treatment. This will lessen the bruising.
- Patients must refrain from chewing for roughly 14 days to allow smooth healing.
- As advised following therapy, use painkillers after meals.
- Patients involved in labor-intensive activities will need to reduce for roughly three weeks.
- Patients should get a full day’s sleep without moving their faces.
- Patients should keep their heads up for nearly seven days.
- Dental procedures must wait at least two weeks after the PDO thread lift.
Things to Expect After a PDO Thread Lift Treatment
- Cleaning the wound. After a PDO thread lift, there will be some blood at the site of the incision. It is advised that patients wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. If there is any bleeding, applying pressure is necessary until it stops. Alcohol-based products are dismissed as they may irritate the skin.
- Wound healing. The incision site heals over time. It may even take several weeks before it completely heals. Keeping the area clean and dry, and avoiding direct sunlight is paramount. A bandage may be necessary.
- Post-operative care. Patients must avoid putting anything directly on the incision site. They must not use lotions or oils, as these could make the skin irritated. Applying antibiotic ointment to the site twice daily is recommended. They must avoid picking at the stitches.
- Recovery. Patients may experience swelling and bruising around the incision site. These symptoms generally go away within a few days. After the incision site has healed, patients may resume normal activities.
What Are Some Perks to PDO Thread Lifting?
Non-Invasive
A PDO thread lift is a nonsurgical facelift procedure involving lifting the face’s skin using suture threads. The process is minimally invasive as other procedures, such as facelifts and chemical peels require general anesthesia.
Helps to Eliminate Fine Lines and Wrinkles
PDO thread lifting can help improve the overall appearance by removing excess layers of skin and tightening facial muscles. It’s also a good option for patients who have lost their natural youthful glow due to fine lines and wrinkles.
Results in a Youthful Appearance
Thread lift procedures typically result in a more youthful appearance with minimal downtime compared to other cosmetic procedures such as facelifts or chemical peels.
PDO thread lifts Are Very Strong and Durable
They are a better-quality product that will last longer than any other lift on the market.
Affordable
The price is right; no need to shell out thousands of dollars for a new lift. On the downside, insurance does not cover the procedure. Still, many people opt for a PDO thread lift because they believe it will give them more confidence and self-esteem.
While the procedure is safe, some patients may have complications following surgery. So, this brings us risks.
Potential Risks after PDO Thread Lifting
While it may seem easy to get rid of bags under the eyes, this procedure comes with its own set of potential risks. The risk of these complications is higher in patients with an underlying disease that increases the risk of infection or poor wound healing.
Wound Dehiscence
It occurs when the suture line fails to heal properly, resulting in an open wound or significant scarring at the site of the incision.
Scarring
Scarring can occur anywhere on the face with any injury during surgery. It can be mild or severe, depending on what type of tissue was injured during surgery.
Infection
The primary risk associated with getting a PDO thread lift is infection. Infection can occur within a few days after the surgery, or it can take months to develop.
It’s important to understand that any time there’s surgery, there’s always a chance of infection. Suture lines allow bacteria to pass through them when they become infected or damaged.
If this occurs, there are chances of pain and swelling at these sites, as well as fever and other symptoms related to infection, such as chills and sweating.
Patients must contact the physician immediately if they notice any redness or swelling around the incision area or along the suture lines.
Swelling
Swelling is another common problem after a PDO thread lift. It occurs when the sutures used during surgery remain in place for too long or are placed in areas where they don’t belong. Swelling can cause bruising or discoloration as well as pain and discomfort.
Bleeding
The most common complication after a PDO thread lift is bleeding. This may occur at the site of incisions or along the suture lines, leading to swelling or bruising in these areas.
In addition, any injury on the scalp or skin, including cuts, scrapes, or burns, may result in bleeding after your surgery. This bleeding can be very painful and uncomfortable, so doctors advise visiting them immediately if there’s bleeding from this procedure.
Also, they must be monitored closely for changes in their skin or signs of excessive bleeding from these sites.
Nerve Damage
Nerves in the face are very close to each other. They are vulnerable to injury during cheek augmentation procedures, often performed with a needle under local anesthesia to numb the area.
So, Are PDO Thread Lifts Worth It?
There are many benefits and downsides to a PDO thread lift. But the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Well, the outcomes of a thread lift are visible, although they may not last a lifetime. However, patients must keep tabs on the doctor and ensure to follow their advice, because they are worth their time and money.
PDO thread lift procedures aim to improve the appearance of facial features by removing excess layers of skin and tightening facial muscles. Although it is not permanent, it is an excellent investment for many reasons. So, if you are in need of the PDO threads feel free to contact us.
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