PDO threads are all over Instagram, with injectors everywhere highlighting the benefits on their feeds. So what is this craze and are PDO threads safe? Polydioxane thread lifting (PDO) has become an increasingly popular procedure for clients wanting to fight the effects of aging without the invasiveness of a face lift or dermal filler.

PDO threads were first performed in Korea and are typically used to treat the face, however, can also be performed on the body. PDO threads can be used to help improve the appearance of sagging skin, reduce the visibility of wrinkles, lift the forehead and neckline, and minimise folds or creasing and are typically applied to the eyebrows, neck and cheek areas. The eye thread procedure has been a favourite amongst the Arnicare team who have been seeing amazing results with minimal downtime and bruising when using our arnica healing cream.

During the ageing process, our facial support structure weakens, resulting in our connective tissue thinning and a loss of elasticity and collagen production. This results in the appearance of wrinkles and a sagging of the facial structure. PDO threads aim to increase collagen formation and tighten and lift the skin.

Depending on the area treated the procedure will take about 15-45minutes and involves the application of a local anaesthetic to the face which works to decrease pain and tenderness at the site. The PDO threads are then inserted into different layers of the skin via a needle. The number of threads required depends on the area, however, generally ranges between 1-15. Once inserted, the threads anchor the skin to lift the sagging tissue. Under the skin the threads work their magic, with collagen forming around the skin to improve facial structure. Whilst PDO threads are considered a relatively non-invasive and low risk procedure there are still complications to be aware of. One major benefit is that they do dissolve over a period of 6-8 months.

Skin dimpling of the subcutaneous tissue can lead to a sunken cheek or oral area, generally seen in areas of higher facial movements. If the depth of the advancing thread is superficial or not even a depression occurs close to the skin which can cause a dimple. Skin dimpling may resolve on its own, or alternatively your practitioner may need to add dermal filler to the area whist waiting for the threat to dissolve. Finally, protrusion of threads can also occur with poor technique or breakage of the thread which can lead to more serious, though rare complications such as infection or granuloma.

Not only can PDO threads offer a relatively short downtime and fewer complications than slightly more invasive treatments, like dermal fillers, client satisfaction rates also tend to be very high, with results longer lasting.

Facial asymmetry can occur with thread lifts and results can be more subtle when compared to more invasive procedures, particularly if there has been significant loss in skin elasticity and collagen. PDO threads are generally best performed on younger patients with minimal wrinkling and sagging of the skin.  

Discussing expectations with your practitioner is essential prior to undergoing a PDO thread lift to determine whether thread lifts alone really are the best treatment option for you or alternative options like an eye thread in conjunction with tear trough filler may better suit your needs.

Our top PDO thread lift aftercare tips are:

Avoid touching the area for 2-4hrs after treatment
Do not apply make up for at least 24hrs
Avoid smoking for 24hrs
Avoid facial treatments for 3 weeks
Avoid hot saunas or baths for at least 24hrs to reduce the risk of bruising
Apply an Arnicare ice pack frequently
Apply our Arnica healing cream as directed by your injector