Polydioxanone Suture

Thread lifting is a procedure that uses a suture (absorbable into the skin) to tighten and lift the skin. It is a less invasive procedure than a facelift and can often be performed in less than 45 minutes without the need for surgery.

Polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting uses a biodegradable polyester thread. They are more suitable for skin rejuvenation, while some newer types of thread lifts are better for lifting sagging skin.

Let’s take a look at what makes PDO thread lifting different from other thread lifts and what you can expect during the procedure.

What makes PDO threads different?

PDO threads are one of three types of sutures commonly used in thread-lifting procedures. The other two types are made from polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCA).

PDO threads are approximately the longest-lasting of the three and have been used in surgeries since the 1980s. They are made from a colorless polyester that breaks down in your body after about 6 months.

The presence of these sutures in the skin stimulates cells in the body called fibroblasts to produce more collagen. Collagen is a protein that gives your skin structure and elasticity. Loss of collagen is one of the main causes of skin aging.

PDO threads can be divided into three categories:

PDO mono threads. Smooth sutures that help rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen production.

PDO cog threads. These threads have barbs that attach to the skin like small fishhooks to support and lift areas of the face.

PDO screw threads. These threads consist of one or two intertwined strands and are used to help restore volume to areas of the skin that have lost volume.

Other types of threads

PLA and PCA threads are newer than PDO. They remain in the body longer and stimulate greater collagen production. PLA threads take about 12 months to be absorbed, while PCA threads take approximately 12 to 15 months.

Potential complications of PDO thread lifting

PDO thread lifting has a much lower risk of complications than facelift surgery. When performed by a trained specialist, there is a lower risk of scarring, severe bruising, or bleeding.

Minor complications occur in 15 to 20 percent of procedures but can usually be easily corrected. Potential complications include:

Visible sutures, especially in people with thin skin

Pain

Minor bruising

Infection

Thread breakage

Blood accumulation (hematoma)

Inflammation

Skin dimpling (orange-peel-like skin texture)

Hair loss

Inflammation

Damage to the salivary glands

Which areas of the face can PDO thread lifting treat?

Thread lifting can treat most areas of the face that show signs of aging. The areas around the cheeks, jawline, neck, and eyes are among the most commonly treated areas.

Since the results of thread lifting are not as dramatic as those of facelift surgery, thread lifting is often combined with other anti-aging procedures such as Ultherapy or dermal fillers.

How long does a PDO thread lift last?

PDO thread lifting provides an immediate improvement in sagging skin after the procedure. However, a significant reduction in results was observed 6 months later. Further improvements were no longer apparent after 1 year.

A surgeon with 16 years of experience in thread lifting says that results can last between 1 and 9 years. Younger people typically have results that last 3 to 4 years. Older people with reduced skin volume or elasticity usually experience benefits for 1 to 2 years.

PLA and PCA thread lifts last longer because the sutures take more time to be absorbed by the skin.

Recovery and aftercare following PDO thread lifting

Recovery from PDO thread lifting is minimal. You may experience some swelling and bruising during the first 24 to 48 hours, but you can usually return to most of your daily activities immediately.

You should avoid rubbing your face as much as possible during the week following the procedure to prevent accidentally displacing the threads. You will also likely be advised to avoid puckering your lips, smoking, and drinking through a straw during the first few weeks.

Other activities you may want to avoid for 1 to 2 weeks include sleeping on your side, strenuous exercise, and visiting a sauna.

Sleeping with your head elevated on a pillow can help prevent you from accidentally rolling onto your face during the night.