The PDO Thread Lift is a Korean cosmetic trend providing an innovative approach to the treatment of ageing. The treatment lifts, tightens and improves the look of sagging skin while, giving natural looking results and alternatives to cosmetic surgery procedures.

The threads are made of soluble PDO (Polydioxanone) which, once inserted into the deeper layers of the skin cause three main effects these include, skin lifting, cellular renewal and skin tightening. The skin is lifted due to the mechanical insertion of the thread, cellular renewal begins when collagen stimulation and neovascularisation occur, improving skin texture and fine lines.

The process of skin tightening occurs with the contraction of fatty tissue, defining facial contours and having a facial slimming effect.

Approximately six months following procedure the PDO threads dissolve due to simple hydrolysis. However, redefined facial contours can be observed for up to two years due to cellular rejuvenation effects.

PDO stands for polydioxanone, a biocompatible material designed for safe reabsorption by the body. PDO (polydioxanone) is a medical grade thread, thinner than hair and is one of the safest materials to be planted in the body as, it is used in cardiothoracic surgery such as, open heart surgery.

There are several different varieties of threads. Some sutures are barbed which, aid to gather the skin ideal for creating a lifting effect and smooth sutures create less lift, however, are ideal for stimulating collagen. Therefore, placement of a particular suture is strategic to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, barbed sutures may be placed around the hair line to pull back the face, cheeks and jowls where, smooth sutures are placed in areas where ageing appears to be more apparent particularly, around the mouth.

Most patients are suitable for a PDO Thread Lift. A treatment could be performed as a preventative measure to the younger population to prevent facial sagging or, to a suitably volumised patient with moderate facial sagging and skin laxity who, needs skin tightening and skin improvement.

For severe signs of facial sagging and skin laxity, combined treatments and surgery options are recommended to ensure patient expectations are realistically met.

Having threads placed is a relatively straightforward procedure. Firstly, it involves the use of local anesthetic to numb the areas being treated, then a thin instrument known as a canula or needle is used to insert the threads into the deeper layers of the skin.

The absorbable threads then dissolve over a period of 6-8 months leaving visibly redefined results.

The process generally takes around 30 – 45mins however, is dependent upon the number of threads being placed.

Most patients can expect some mild to moderate swelling however, recovery time is generally only 2-3 days.

This will vary from area to area and according to how many threads are required. Book a consultation to receive a personal quotation according to your concerns.

The treatment of PDO threads is surprisingly safe and said to have much milder side effects when compared to those of dermal fillers. Because PDO threads are a non-surgical procedure inserted via needle to be later absorbed by the body, many side effects such as, infection are minimised when compared to older thread lifting techniques. However, mild side effects can be expected for up to two weeks following a procedure. These include, tenderness, swelling, bruising, a tight sensation and, some patients may observe a mild dimpling effect to the skin which, often resolves within a few days.

Serious side effects although rare can include, infection, prolonged pain, asymmetry, nerve damage, formation of nodules and damage to the salivary ducts. The PDO Thread Lift treatment requires extensive knowledge of a complex anatomical structure such as, the face to ensure good outcomes, minimize the risk of side effects and avoid the risk of serious side effects.

It is best to avoid medications and supplements which, have a blood thinning effect for at least 1-2 weeks before treatment. These can include aspirin, multi-vitamins and omega fish oils. Like most injectable treatments this is the case to reduce the risk of bleeding, resulting in the appearance of bruises.

The PDO Thread Lift treatment is very versatile and treatments can be performed on the face, neck and body. Here is a list of the areas PDO threads can be of benefit to you.

Eyebrows – lift heaviness through the brow and open the eyes.

Crows-feet – reduce wrinkles

Under-eyes – reduce lines and puffiness

Cheeks – lifting

Nasolabial lines – reduced

Lower face – reduced marionette folds and fine lines

Jawline – slimmer with greater definition

Double chin – reduced and tightened

Neck – reduced lines

The PDO Thread Lift is best suited to patients experiencing mild to moderate facial laxity rather than, severe facial laxity as, it is important to maintain realistic outcomes for patients.

While a PDO Thread Lift surely produces visible results for patients the threads, however, generally only lift by a few millimeters to create a natural looking result when, compared to the results of facelift surgery.

At Cosmetic Image Clinics, we aim to make you as comfortable as possible with access when indicated, requested or required to painkillers, inhalational gas pain killing, the use of vibratory devices to minimise discomfort, ice, zimmer cool air blowing and numerous other techniques.

Patients sometimes experience mild soreness and swelling for a few days after having this procedure, but it can usually be managed with over the counter pain relievers.

PDO threads are strong, non-allergenic and fully biodegradable. The PDO threads will dissolve over 6 months, while stimulating enough of your own collagen to last many years.

Patients should refrain from washing, wetting and touching their face or the treated area for at least 12 hours following a procedure.

Avoid using the steam room, sauna or engaging in strenuous exercise activity. Keep up your fluid intake and use over the counter pain relievers such as, paracetamol as necessary..