en English
ar Arabiczh-CN Chinese (Simplified)nl Dutchen Englishfr Frenchde Germanit Italianpt Portugueseru Russianes Spanish
WHAT IS PDO THREAD LIFTING?

PDO threading is a procedure that involves the introduction of polydioxanone (PDO) threads under the skin for collagen stimulation and skin tightening. PDO threads are safe and will dissolve under the skin after six months. They have an instant mechanical lifting effect on the treated area and will continue to stimulate collagen production over the next few months. The effects of PDO threading can last for up to two years and is best used in combination with botulinum toxin and fillers for optimal results.
PDO threads offer four major skin benefits. They:

  • Anchor the treated skin and lift it upward.
  • Redefine the contours and curves of the face.
  • Rejuvenate and tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production.
  • Improve the texture of the skin.
WHAT IS POLYDIOXANONE (PDO)?

Polydioxanone (PDO) is an extremely safe material that encourages cell cohesion. It is frequently used in heart surgeries.

PDO threads biodegrade and get absorbed six months after they’re introduced into the body. However, their effects last for a few months more.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PDO THREADS?

The two main types of PDO threads are:

  • Barbed PDO threads
  • Non-barbed PDO threads

Barbed PDO threads are strong threads used for areas that need prominent or noticeable skin lifting. These threads anchor the skin and lift it. Four to eight PDO threads are needed for each side of the treated area.

Non-barbed PDO threads are used to tighten and rejuvenate the skin in areas where lifting is not needed. These fine threads are cheaper, have small skin lifting capacity, and can be used in the arms and the abdomen. Cheaper PDO threading treatments often use non-barbed PDO threads.

IS PDO THREADING PAINFUL?

Patients often report minimal discomfort when undergoing a PDO threading procedure. This is because the treatment area will be numbed by a numbing cream and applied with a local anesthetic before the PDO threads are introduced.

CAN PDO THREADING CAUSE BRUISING?

To avoid cutting through blood vessels and other important structures, we use blunt cannula instead of needles for our PDO threading treatments. By introducing PDO threads using a blunt cannula and together with a good insertion technique, bruising on the treated area can be minimized.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS?

The skin lifting effect of PDO threads can be observed right after the procedure. However, optimal results are achieved three months after. This is because PDO threads also stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES A PDO THREADING PROCEDURE TAKE?

A single PDO threading session can last 30 to 60 minutes.

HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS OF PDO THREADING LAST?

The effects of PDO threading can last for up to two years, but this will depend on the condition of your skin and your daily lifestyle. We recommend scheduling an annual review and getting a repeat procedure once a year to maintain the lifting effect.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF PDO THREADING?

PDO threading is considered generally safe, and complications seldom occur.
The common complications include:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising and hematoma
  • Pain and discomfort

The rare complications include:

  • Infection
  • Vascular trauma
  • Thread migration
  • Facial nerve injury
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Allergic reaction to PDO threads
  • Changes in skin pigmentation (the sun should be avoided four weeks following the treatment)
ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR PDO THREADING?

You may NOT be suitable for PDO threading if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Active acne or infection
  • Keloid predisposition
  • Autoimmune disease
  • Hemophilia
  • In vitro fertilization/pregnancy/breastfeeding
  • Active cold sore
  • Bacterial endocarditis history
  • Chemotherapy
  • Lidocaine allergy
  • History of PDO threads allergy
HOW TO PREPARE FOR PDO THREADING?
  • Do not wear makeup before the procedure. It can increase the risk of infection.
  • Unless they are prescribed by your doctor, do not take any anti-inflammatory medicines at least five days before your schedule. Examples of medications to avoid include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac. Also, avoid alcohol 48 hours before the treatment. This can increase the risks of bruising and bleeding. You may opt to take Arcina five days before your schedule.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A PDO THREADING PROCEDURE?
  • Tightness and tenderness of the skin, redness, and/or bruising may be felt and observed around the treated area.
  • Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and other anti-inflammatory drugs. If you have to, take tylenol.
  • Do not put makeup and other cosmetic products on the treated area for at least 24 hours.
  • Sleep on your back and use soft pillows one week after the procedure.
  • Do not shower or wash your face 24 hours following the treatment.
  • Do not engage in any physically demanding activities for five days.
  • Do not consume alcohol for the next 48 hours.

Schedule an Appointment