PDO Threadlift (Thread lift) is a leading edge, non-surgical, and long lasting procedure that delivers noticeable benefits immediately and with results that continue to improve over time. Threadlift is the first true lifting alternative to a traditional face lift.
PDO Threadlift is a new treatment that offers a surgery-free alternative to traditional facelift procedures. It is less invasive, yet highly effective. In addition to lifting and tightening the skin, it also creates a network of new collagen fibers within the dermis, thus lifting and rejuvenating the whole face. As the body continues to respond to the threads over the months following the treatment, skin elasticity continues to improve. PDO threadlifts are usually performed on the face though they can also be performed elsewhere on the body.
Dermal fillers are commonly used in conjunction with Botox so that both “static” and “dynamic” lines can be addressed.
There is no treatment available from a medical spa that can provide as dramatic a change in the look of the face as a Threadlift. Threadlifts have filled a major role in our ability to provide dramatic anti-aging results. Med spas have relied heavily on Botox and fillers to create a softer and fuller look for years. But these cannot replace the physical lift of a surgical face lift. Threadlifts address the issues without the need for a traditional face lift from a plastic surgeon.
The advantage to Threadlift procedures can be seen especially for those who use filler for a lifted cheek structure. Often, patients who overly relied on fillers for a higher cheek would easily end up with the over-filled or “chipmunk” look. This is because fillers can not lift tissues, only fill them. Threadlift not only accomplishes the physical lift that gives jowls and cheeks a more youthful appearance, but it also produces an innovative way for your own collagen production to physically support that lift.
At Belle Âme Med Spa, we’re proud to be one of the first OKC med spas to offer this less-invasive, highly-effective, and ground-breaking treatment to our patients.
Threadlift is a Highly Effective Long-term Treatment That Improves:
- Droopy Jowls
- Saggy Skin
- Droopy Eyes
- Saggy Cheeks
- Loss of Collagen and Elastin
- Laugh Lines
- Brow Furrows
How Does a PDO Threadlift Work?
The PDO in “PDO Threads” stands for Polydioxanone and it refers to the type of absorbable polymer material that these threads are made from. Absorbable threads or sutures are nothing new and the technology behind PDO threadlift has existed for a couple of decades.
Absorbable sutures have allowed surgeons and doctors to close lower layers of a deep wound or surgical opening using stitches that don’t have to be removed.
Surgeons began to notice that in the areas around these dissolvable sutures, the body was launching an increased healing response and generating large amounts of new collagen. Recently, absorbable PDO threads with tiny barbs have been FDA-cleared for use in skin lifting. During a threadlift procedure, these threads are inserted under the skin using a needle. They attach to your subcutaneous connective tissue and with a slight tug, the skin can be lifted. The needle is removed and the thread is left in place. In addition to the lift that the thread itself produces, more tightening occurs over time as your skin creates a new network of collagen in response to the threads.
The Procedure
Prior to the procedure, your practitioner will discuss with you which areas you’d like to have lifted. Threads can be used in several different areas of the face, as well as the arms, knees, buttocks, or any other area that may have sagging skin. Depending on your specific issues, your practitioner will map out exactly where to place the threads and in which direction.
The procedure itself involves the insertion of needles under the surface of your skin which allows threads to be inserted. Your practitioner will use lidocaine to numb the area. There may be some discomfort depending on the patient’s responsiveness to lidocaine. It will feel similar to when a dentist administers local anesthesia prior to working on your teeth and the area will feel numb for several hours after your treatment. The whole procedure usually takes less than an hour. The results are well worth the effort.
What Kinds of Threadlifts are There?
Using threads for anchoring and lifting is the most common application. These threads are designed with microscopic barbs that hold the skin in place after being carefully placed just below the surface. The threads used for physically lifting areas of the face such as jowls, cheeks, laugh lines, nasolabial folds, and areas under or around the eyes.
PDO threads can also be used without anchoring for a “scaffolding” effect giving the skin more structure, tone and volume.
How Soon Will I See Results and How Long Will They Last?
You’ll notice results right away after your treatment since the threads will provide an immediate physical lift. Immediately following treatment there may also be some swelling for the first few days. Many of our patients actually like the look of this increased volume. If this is not the case for you, we can add some dermal filler after the swelling has gone down.
Within 1 to 2 months you’ll begin to notice added volume and skin tightening. Over the course of 6 to 9 months following treatment, your body will be slowly absorbing the threads. During this process, the body is building a kind of a scaffolding network of collagen around the threads, lending new elasticity and structure to the skin. At this point, we recommend coming in for a follow up treatment to have fresh threads inserted. This will enhance the overall effect and ensure long-lasting results. For long-term maintenance, we recommend re-treatment every few years depending on the overall condition of your collagen, connective tissue, and skin elasticity.
PDO threads can also be used without anchoring for a “scaffolding” effect giving the skin more structure, tone and volume.
Downtime and Side-effects
While patients often experience some swelling and mild bruising, it’s usually mild to moderate for most patients. The downtime varies from patient to patient. Keep in mind that, unlike injections or facials, this is a semi-invasive procedure, albeit non-surgical. Some patients are able to return to normal activities the next day, others may need a day or two longer.
Side effects are rare and only happen if the treatment was performed improperly. One possibility is that an inexperienced practitioner may place threads incorrectly which could result in puckering of the skin or orange-peel like texture. Another possibility is that they may place too much tension on the thread, causing it to snap. This is why it’s important only to use highly qualified and experienced Threadlift providers like the ones at Belle Âme.
Before and After Your Treatment
For several days before your treatment, and following your treatment for about a week, it’s recommended that you avoid any foods, medications, activities, or substances that could thin your blood or interfere with your body’s clotting and healing ability. This includes but is not limited to:
- NSAIDs like ibuprophen
- Alcohol
- Green tea in all forms including extracts
- Vitamin E supplements
- Omega-3 supplements
- Saunas, steam rooms, or very hot baths
- High-intensity exercise
After your treatment, you can expect to see some minor bruising and swelling which will subside within a few days. During this time, in addition to the items listed above, you should also avoid putting any pressure on your face or treatment area. You may also be advised by your provider to sleep on your back for the first night or two after the procedure. You should also avoid any strong facial movements for several days. Most other activities can be resumed right away.