PDO Lifting Threads – Facts and Myths

Many years ago, PDO threads were successfully used in demanding surgical procedures, as well as in ophthalmology, gynecology, and urology. Their application in aesthetic treatments is a “discovery” that originated in South Korea. PDO threads are made from a material called polydioxanone – a fully biodegradable, thin, yet exceptionally strong synthetic fiber. Polydioxanone is very well tolerated by human tissues, largely because it does not trigger allergic reactions or cause other unwanted side effects. Among PDO threads used in aesthetic procedures, we can distinguish two main types: revitalizing threads and lifting threads.
So, how do lifting threads work?

PDO lifting threads are divided into several subgroups based on their structure, designed for use in specific areas of the face and body. Nevertheless, the procedure itself is generally similar for all types of polydioxanone lifting threads. In simple terms, it involves inserting the threads under the skin using needles placed inside very thin cannulas. The effect of the procedure is a gradual stimulation of the tissues to increase collagen production, as well as the synthesis of elastin and hyaluronic acid. All these processes combined lead to lifting, firming, and visibly tightening sagging skin. In many cases, PDO lifting threads can serve as an alternative to traditional, invasive surgical facelifts. Additionally, the thread placement technique follows the skin’s natural tension lines, further enhancing the effectiveness and spectacular results of the treatment.

Depending on the aesthetic concern presented by the patient or the area of the face or body to be treated, different types of PDO lifting threads may be used. These can include, for example, Cavern-Fill threads arranged in a tight tunnel shape or Multi-Fill threads, whose structure resembles a fan.

Regardless of the type of polydioxanone thread applied, the main indications for treatment on the face or body include:

• disturbed facial contour;
• loss of skin density and firmness;
• drooping eyebrows;
• hollow cheeks;
• double chin;
• aesthetic concerns around the nose;
• sagging skin on the cheeks;
• marionette lines;
• under-eye bags;
• deep nasolabial folds;
• wrinkles and lines on the neck and décolletage;
• stretch marks in various areas of the body;
• loss of firmness in the breast area;
• sagging skin on the arms, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs;
• skin and subcutaneous tissue sensitivity issues after liposuction procedures;
• atrophic changes on the backs of the hands.

To organize your knowledge about treatments involving PDO lifting threads, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with a few key facts, which sometimes raise doubts among potential patients. These include statements such as:

PDO lifting threads can be applied at any time of the year – FACT

Some professional treatments, to ensure patient comfort and minimize the risk of side effects, are limited to certain seasons. However, there are no such restrictions for PDO lifting threads. The procedure can be safely performed at any time of the year, including summer. Of course, this does not eliminate the need for proper post-treatment care.

Following specific post-treatment guidelines is necessary after PDO lifting thread procedures – FACT

There are certain recommendations and contraindications that patients should follow after PDO lifting thread treatments. Regardless of the treated area, it is advisable to avoid physical exertion, saunas, and swimming pools for a few days after the procedure.
Additionally, it’s strongly recommended to refrain from undergoing other facial treatments (if threads were placed in this area) for at least a week after the procedure.
If PDO threads were applied around the cheeks or lips, patients should also minimize intense facial expressions and avoid stretching the skin in these areas for several days following the treatment.

The results of PDO lifting threads are visible immediately – FACT

Although the process of stimulating collagen and elastin production typically begins 10 to 14 days after the application, initial results are usually visible right after the PDO threads are inserted under the skin. These effects are often both spectacular and naturally subtle.

The results of PDO lifting threads improve over time – FACT

An important aspect of PDO lifting thread treatments is that the effects become more pronounced over time.
This is due to the properties of polydioxanone, which continuously stimulates the tissues to produce collagen and elastin for an extended period. PDO threads generally remain in place for around two years after the procedure.

PDO lifting thread treatments deliver the best results in patients over 30 – FACT

Patients often wonder whether PDO lifting threads will produce the desired outcome in their case.
One common concern relates to the patient’s age. It’s important to remember that skin aging depends on many factors, and two people of the same age may show very different degrees of skin aging. Nevertheless, the best results with PDO lifting threads are usually achieved in patients over the age of 30–35.
Of course, the final effect always depends on the treated area and the individual characteristics of the patient’s skin.

Even though polydioxanone (PDO) threads have been used in medicine for many years, in the field of aesthetic treatments they still raise a lot of doubts among potential patients. Unfortunately, a lack of reliable information often leads to the creation of myths — beliefs that are simply not true. Below, we explain the most common ones:

PDO thread insertion is very painful and leaves scars – MYTH

The subcutaneous application of PDO lifting threads is typically performed under local anesthesia, ensuring the patient’s comfort and minimizing pain.
After the procedure, some tenderness may persist for up to two weeks, but the risk of permanent marks or scarring in the treated areas is extremely low.

PDO thread treatments are performed only on the face – MYTH

The lifting properties of PDO threads can be successfully used on areas other than the face. Excellent results are also achieved on the neck, décolletage, breasts, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.
PDO lifting threads can even be used to correct skin sagging around the elbows and knees.

PDO threads remain in the tissues for the patient’s entire life – MYTH

This is one of the most common myths, stemming from misinformation about polydioxanone.
In reality, this material gradually dissolves naturally within the patient’s tissues, typically about two years after the PDO threads are applied.
To maintain the effect, the procedure is usually repeated after this time..

Polydioxanone is toxic to the body – MYTH

Polydioxanone is a substance that is fully biocompatible and bioabsorbable by human tissues.
It has been used for over 20 years in various branches of medicine without any reports of toxic effects on patient health.

PDO lifting thread procedures require a long recovery – MYTH

PDO thread application is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require cutting the skin or suturing.
Patients can usually return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure, following just a few simple post-treatment recommendations.
The only mild side effects might include slight redness or bruising at the treatment site.
Thus, it is not true that PDO thread insertion involves a long recovery period.

PDO lifting threads create an unnatural, stretched look – MYTH

Although the results of a PDO thread lift are typically visible immediately after the procedure and the improvement can be significant, it never results in an artificial or overly stretched appearance.
A properly performed PDO thread treatment delivers natural-looking results, effectively addressing the patient’s aesthetic concerns while the threads remain in the body.

Performing professional treatments in the fields of cosmetology and aesthetic medicine requires extensive, specialized knowledge. That’s why it’s best to seek information directly from qualified professionals. When a patient is considering whether a particular treatment is suitable for them and whether it will deliver the desired results, they should always consult their case with a specialist. As for PDO lifting threads, it is worth knowing that they represent one of the most effective and least invasive treatments in their category.