Facial sagging and tissue laxity are among the most visible signs of aging. For people looking for an alternative to surgical facelift, or for those who want an earlier intervention for mild sagging, the PDO thread lift has become an increasingly popular option thanks to its short recovery time and natural-looking outcomes.
"A PDO thread lift offers a noticeable lifting and tightening effect in the mid and lower face without a surgical intervention, and it is one of the methods I frequently prefer."
What Is a PDO Thread Lift?
PDO (polydioxanone) is a biologically absorbable material that has been used in surgical sutures for decades. In a thread lift, specialized threads made from this material are placed under the skin using fine cannulas. As the threads are gradually absorbed by the body, they produce two important effects:
- Mechanical lifting: the placed threads gently lift and support the tissue in the desired direction.
- Biostimulation: a mild foreign-body reaction triggers new collagen production; this effect continues for months even after the threads have been fully absorbed.
Which Areas Are Treated?
- Mid-cheek: softening of jowls (lower-jaw sagging) and nasolabial lines
- Brow lift: correction of lateral brow drooping
- Neck and submental area: reduction of the "neck laxity" appearance
- Facial oval: sharpening of the jawline
- Forehead and temples: lifting of the mid-face tissues upward
The Difference Between a Thread Lift and a Surgical Facelift
| Feature | PDO Thread Lift | Surgical Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure duration | 45–90 minutes | 3–5 hours |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia | General / sedation |
| Recovery time | 3–7 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Duration of results | 12–18 months | 5–10 years |
| Suitable age group | Between 35–55 years old | Moderate to advanced sagging |
| Scar risk | Minimal | Present |
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
A thread lift is not the ideal option for everyone. Suitable candidates typically share the following characteristics:
- Adults between the ages of 35 and 55 with mild to moderate tissue sagging
- People who do not want a surgical facelift, or who are not candidates for surgery
- Cases where previous filler or botulinum toxin treatments did not deliver a sufficient result
- Those using it as a maintenance session to preserve earlier results
I inform my patients that thread lifts provide limited benefit in cases of advanced sagging, very thin or very thick skin, or significant weight fluctuations. An honest consultation is the first step to the right outcome.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. After specific entry points are marked on the face, threads are placed into the appropriate anatomical planes using cannulas. Depending on the area, the total procedure takes between 45 and 90 minutes. Once adequate anesthesia has been achieved, the procedure is completed comfortably.
The Recovery Process
- First 48–72 hours: swelling, temporary asymmetry and redness may occur
- Days 3–7: swelling largely subsides and social activities can be resumed
- Weeks 2–4: collagen synthesis begins and improvement in the face becomes more apparent
- Months 3–6: the full effect becomes visible during this period
Aftercare: Things to Keep in Mind
- During the first week, minimize movements that require wide mouth opening (big smiles, large bites)
- Avoid sleeping face-down for the first week
- Do not apply intense massage or pressure to the face
- Sauna and Turkish bath are not recommended for the first 4 weeks
- Wait at least 2 weeks before any dental or gum procedures
How Long Do the Results Last?
The effect of PDO threads lasts on average 12–18 months. With the biostimulation effect (collagen production), some patients may see the effect extend up to 2 years. Results can be periodically refreshed with maintenance sessions, which typically use fewer threads to achieve a similar outcome. Results vary from person to person. Any treatment plan is subject to physician assessment.
Is It Safe?
PDO is a biocompatible material that has been used safely in medicine for decades. It is fully absorbed by the body and leaves no permanent foreign material behind. When performed with sound anatomical knowledge and experience, a thread lift is a highly safe procedure. Complication risk is low; however, situations such as asymmetry, a pulling sensation or early absorption may occur, and all of these are manageable.
To find out whether a thread lift is suitable for you, I can carry out a comprehensive facial assessment at our clinic. Booking an appointment is all it takes.