Face Lift with PDO Threads
A PDO thread lift gently lifts and tightens sagging skin without surgery. Fine, dissolvable threads are placed beneath the skin to give an immediate lift, then stimulate your own collagen for firmer, more contoured skin that keeps improving over the following months.
What are PDO threads?
PDO (polydioxanone) is a strong, synthetic monofilament fiber made of one or two twisted threads, the same material that has been used for decades in dissolvable surgical sutures. After a certain time, it dissolves naturally in the tissue.
These premium lifting threads stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that make collagen, so the treated area keeps producing new collagen as the threads are absorbed.
How it works
Using an ultra-thin-walled needle, the threads are placed just beneath the skin along specific lines. Some threads have tiny barbs that gently hold and lift tissue for an immediate lifting effect.
Over the following weeks and months, the threads trigger new collagen production, improving skin elasticity, firmness and facial contour. The result is a natural-looking lift for the face, and some areas of the body.
Where PDO threads can help
Upper face
- Forehead lifting
- Brow lift
- Fine wrinkles under the eyes (infra-orbital)
Mid face
- Malar fold (cheek lift)
- Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
- Melo-mental folds (marionette lines)
Lower face & neck
- Jawline lifting and "V line" contouring
- V chin
- Sub-mental fold (under the chin)
What to expect
- Free consultationWe assess your skin and facial structure, discuss the areas you'd like lifted, and make sure a thread lift is right for you. Some patients benefit more from fillers or a combination.
- PreparationThe skin is cleansed and numbed with local anesthetic, so the treatment is comfortable.
- TreatmentThreads are placed beneath the skin with a fine, ultra-thin-walled needle. There are no incisions. Most treatments take under an hour.
- Right afterYou'll see an immediate lift. Mild swelling, bruising or tenderness is common and usually settles within a few days to a week.
- The following monthsAs new collagen forms, skin becomes firmer and more contoured. Results typically last about 12–18 months, and touch-ups can maintain them.
Before your treatment
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medicines, fish oil and vitamin E for about a week, unless your doctor has told you to take them
- Avoid alcohol for a couple of days beforehand
- Let us know about any medications, skin conditions or recent dental work
These steps help reduce the chance of bruising.
Aftercare
- Sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first few nights
- Avoid rubbing or massaging your face, and exaggerated facial expressions, for about 2 weeks
- Skip strenuous exercise, saunas and facials for 1–2 weeks
- Postpone dental work for about 2 weeks
- Cold compresses help with swelling
Frequently asked questions
Does a thread lift hurt?
The area is numbed first, and the ultra-thin-walled needle keeps the procedure gentle, so most patients feel only mild pressure or pulling. Some tenderness for a few days afterward is normal.
How long do results last?
The threads dissolve over about 6 months, but the collagen they stimulate continues to support the skin. Most patients enjoy results for around 12–18 months, depending on age, skin quality and the areas treated.
Is it a replacement for a surgical face lift?
A thread lift is ideal for mild to moderate sagging and for people who want a natural lift without surgery or a long recovery. For very significant skin laxity, surgery may still give a more dramatic result. We'll give you an honest recommendation at your consultation.
Are PDO threads safe?
PDO has been used safely in dissolvable surgical sutures for decades and is absorbed naturally by the body. Possible side effects include bruising, swelling, temporary dimpling or asymmetry, and, rarely, infection or a thread becoming visible, which can be corrected. We'll review these with you beforehand.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Threads pair well with Botox, dermal fillers and skin resurfacing for a more complete rejuvenation.
This page is for general information and isn't medical advice. Suitability, downtime and results vary by person and are determined at your consultation.
A natural lift, without surgery
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