PDO Threadlift FAQ

PDO THREADLIFTS

PDO threads are a treatment that is rapidly growing in popularity in Australia and around the world. Originally developed in Russia and then having been further improved and popularised in Europe, the US and more recently, East Asia (especially South Korea), cosmetic MD has the latest TGA-approved threads available in Australia.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are PDO threads?

PDO, or polydioxanone, is a biocompatible product commonly used in surgical sutures. PDO does not remain permanently in the skin and will be reabsorbed over about 6 to 9 months. PDO is broken down in the body ultimately ending up as water and carbon dioxide.

At cosmetic MD, we use two basic types of PDO threads - monos and cogs.

Monofilament threads (monos) are thin lengths of PDO (around as thick as a hair) that are loaded onto a thin needle which are inserted into the skin. The needle can hold single flat threads, threads wound in a spiral (tornado) or multiple threads braided together. The more PDO material in the thread, the more collagen stimulation we can expect. Mono threads are usually completely absorbed by about 6 months.

Cog threads are thicker lengths of PDO that are loaded onto a cannula which is then inserted into the skin. These threads have little cogs on them that engage the skin and can lift up sagging skin of the cheek, jowl or brow when the thread is pulled upwards. As they are stronger than mono threads, cogs can obtain more lifting and contouring. Cog threads are usually fully absorbed between 6 months to 9 months.

How does PDO work?

PDO has been shown to stimulate new collagen in the skin. There is much less risk of complications such as scars and nodules that are seen with the older threads.

Common treatments such as laser, peels, RF, HIFU or even PRP treatments, cause a wound healing response and a stimulus for new collagen at one point in time. PDO threads have an advantage as they can stimulate collagen over a long period of time (at least 6 months).

What can PDO threads do for me?

A PDO threadlift treatment can help improve skin quality (smooths and rejuvenates) and tighten sagging skin on the face, neck and body (arms, abdomen and buttocks). Depending on what we want to achieve, we will use monos, cogs or combinations of threads.

As a general rule, mono threads are suitable for younger patients who are not yet sagging and want to maintain their skin quality. We may also use mono threads to help tighten the skin in some areas or to prepare the skin to receive cog threads in older patients.

Cog threads are generally suitable once there are signs of sagging skin, such as the jowls, for patients from their 30s onwards.

How long will results from PDO threads last?

Results will vary depending on many factors including the severity of laxity, number of threads used and the thickness of skin as well as how much firming occurs after the lift. There is some individual variability in results.

We usually suggest at least 2 sessions for mono threads about 3 months apart. Cog threads may be sufficient after a single session but can be supplemented with additional monos after 3 months.

How much time will be required for my treatment?

The duration of your treatment depends on the area involved. Pre-treatment preparations like cleaning and preparing the skin as well as the application of numbing medication usually takes about 30 minutes. The actual treatment takes roughly 15-30 min to complete.

What side effects are associated with PDO threads treatments?

The side effects associated with PDO mono threads are usually mild and includes discomfort, swelling and bruising immediately following treatment. There is almost no downtime for recovery needed and patients are able to return to normal daily activities immediately.

The side effects associated with PDO cog threads are mild to moderate and includes discomfort, swelling and bruising immediately following treatment. A tight sensation is common. Skin dimpling can occur, especially if there is a lot of sagging to be corrected, but usually resolves by itself within days to weeks.

Can PDO threads be used in combination with other treatments?

Yes, we can! Good results can potentially be achieved by combining PDO threads with PRP and other cosmetic treatments including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

We advise not to have any Nd:YAG (or Alexandrite) laser treatments for at least 3 months after threads though more superficial lasers (and IPL) are fine to treat after 1 month.

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