Everything you need to know about PDO threads
Everything you need to know about PDO Threads
PDO threads, also known as a Polydioxanone thread lift is a procedure that uses a dissolvable suture to lift and tighten the skin. Less invasive than a traditional surgical facelift, PDO threads can usually be performed within 45 minutes, with minimal downtime.
Polydioxanone thread lifts use a biodegradable polyester suture, which eventually breaks down within the skin. Whilst some PDO are best suited to rejuvenating the skin, some are designed to lift sagging skin.
In this blog, we will look at what makes a PDO thread lift different from other thread lifts, and help you decide which PDO thread is best for your patient.
What makes a PDO Thread Different?
PDO threads, made of Polydioxanone are one of three types of sutures commonly used in thread lift procedures. The other two types are PLA, made from polylactic acid and PCA made from polycaprolactone.
PDO threads have been around the longest and have been used in surgery since the 1980s. Naturally broken down by the body in around 6 months, they are made from a colourless polyester that when used in the skin, triggers fibroblasts within the skin to produce more collagen. Collagen is the protein that allows the skin to retain its structure and elasticity, the natural loss of collagen with age causes the skin to sag and crease.
PDO threads can be broken down into three categories:
PDO mono threads – these are smooth sutures that are designed to help rejuvenate the skin and stimulate collagen production.
PDO cog threads – these threads have barbs that latch into skin, like small fishhooks to lift and hold the face.
PDO screw threads – Screw threads are made up of one, or two intertwined threads used to restore volume to sunken parts of the face.
When deciding which PDO thread is best for your patient, you should always assess the skin, and the patients’ needs before selecting a PDO thread. The type of PDO thread you select will be determined by the desired outcome.
What areas of the face can PDO Threads be used?
A PDO thread lift can be used to treat most areas of the face that are showing signs of ageing. The eyes, cheeks, neck and jaw, neck are among the most commonly treated areas.
As the procedure is non-invasive, results of thread lifts are not as drastic as that of a full surgical facelift, therefore they are commonly used in conjunction with other antiaging procedures, including dermal fillers.
Potential Complications of a PDO thread lift
PDO thread lifts have a much lower risk of complications than surgical facelift procedures, and there is less risk of scarring, severe bruising or bleeding when performed correctly.
Minor complications are usually easily corrected and include:
minor bruising
infection
visible sutures (especially in people with thin skin)
pain
snapping of threads
accumulation of blood (hematoma)
hair loss
inflammation
salivary gland injury
dimpling
For more information on the procedure, and the aftercare advise for your patients see our blog on Thread lift Aftercare. For help in selecting the right one for your patient, contact the Fillers Direct team.