PDO refers to polydioxanone which is a dissolvable, biocompatible material commonly used in medical sutures. PDO threads are used for skin tightening and rejuvenation. The threads naturally dissolve and are absorbed by the body 6-9 months after treatment.

PDO threads also trigger the body’s natural response to stimulate collagen which results in a more youthful appearance even after the threads have dissolved.

Approximately 20-30 minutes.

An insertion point is created with a small needle and the PDO threads are inserted via blunt tip cannulas. Once inserted, the thread acts as an anchor and the skin is lifted upwards. The excess threads are then cut off.

There is minimal to no pain – a local anaesthetic is used prior to carrying out the procedure.

You may experience some temporary pain or discomfort, bruising and swelling. These effects should settle within seven days. There may be some temporary skin changes at the insertion sites such as puckering, dimpling and lumpiness. These effects usually resolve over 1-2 weeks but occasionally may last longer. You may feel a pulling sensation for up to 5 weeks, this again will naturally resolve.

Results are visible immediately and can continue to improve up to six weeks after the treatment. The final results depend on multiple factors such as skin laxity, healing rate and lifestyle.

Results from a thread lift last up to two years.

• It is normal to experience slight inflammation and redness post-treatment.
• The treated area may feel tight or slightly uncomfortable when making facial movements however this will reduce as the threads relax into the skin.
• Infection if aftercare isn’t followed.

There is no downtime after a PDO thread lift but aftercare instructions must be followed for the best recovery.

• Sleep on your back, with your head slightly elevated to avoid pressure on the treated area.
• Avoid touching the treated area and entry sites
• Do not rub or massage the face for 2 weeks after treatment.
• Avoid dental treatments for at least 4 weeks if possible.
• Minimise facial movements for the first 24 hours.
• Avoid any perfumes, fake tan or other harsh chemicals for at least 72 hours after treatment.
• Avoid any makeup for at least 72 hours after treatment.
• Avoid any products that contain alpha hydroxy acids, retinol, and glycolic acid for at least 7 days after treatment.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 72 hours after treatment. These can cause sweating which can irritate the skin and slow down your ability to heal quickly.
• Avoid swimming, saunas, steam rooms, sunbeds for at least seven days after treatment.
• No aeroplane flights for at least two weeks post-treatment.
• Avoid any excess alcohol or caffeine for 48 hours after treatment.
• Avoid any further cosmetic treatments such as Botox or dermal filler until your thread lift practitioner has given approval for these to go ahead.
• Avoid any heat producing cosmetic treatments such as HIFU, laser and IPL for 12 weeks after treatment. If you are looking to have an aesthetic procedure, ask your thread lift practitioner if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid facials or facial massages for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
• Avoid any hair removal treatments such as waxing for 2 weeks after treatment.