PDO Thread Information Leaflet
What is PDO Thread Lift?
This is a procedure, which rejuvenates, regenerates and improves the structure of the face, in a similar way to a surgical facelift, but without the need for surgery. Specialthreads are inserted into the skin via a fine needle to lift tissue and muscle and improve skin texture.
How do PDO Threads work?
Threads are made of soluble PDO (polydioxanone), which is a material that has been used in medicine for many years, mainly in surgery. However, research has shown that PDO relaxes muscles and tendons, and also stimulates the neocollagenesis process, which encourages the production of new collagen in the skin. PDO also stimulates the synthesis of elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin, both of which are vital for keeping the skin looking plump and youthful.
A lifted appearance can be seen immediately following the treatment, however, the results will improve in the following days and weeks.The overall texture of the skin is improved; it becomes thicker, tighter and firmer and fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed away as the PDO Threads dissolve away over the following 90-180 days. The remaining results can last up to two years.
Different lengths, textures and thicknesses of thread are used for different areas of the face. Short strands of threads can be used to treat fine lines around the eyes, while thicker strands can be injected into the muscles of the forehead as an alternative to Botulinum Toxin (Botox). Longer threads can correct and lift the neck and jawline.
Which areas can be treated with PDO Threads?
The threads are extremely versatile and can be used all around the face, neck and body. Threads can treat vertical and horizontal wrinkles on the forehead, sagging brows, drooping cheeks, pronounced naso-labial folds (nose to mouth) and marionette (corner of mouth to chin) folds, sagging jawline, neck and folds and wrinkles on the chin.
Please take into consideration the following;
Bruising can happen. The degree of bruising varies not only depending on the area being treated, but also from patient to patient. However, you do need to be aware that considerable bruising could possibly occur, and plan your social calendar or work commitments around this. With the “5” or “10” point lift injectable lidocaine is used which can give your face an uneven look for 4 hours until the lidocaine wears off.
What happens during the procedure?
You will complete a consent form and have any questions you may have, answered. Your skin will be cleansed and a numbing cream will be applied to the area to be treated. You will have pictures taken of the treatment area for your medical files. The number and type of threads will be decided and as everyone has a different face shape, your treatment will be bespoke to you. The threads will be gently inserted and protective healing creams applied and pictures taken of the treatment area after the threads have been inserted.
What can I do/not do after the treatment?
Depending upon the area treated you may go about your normal activities. We advise to avoid any rubbing or massaging of the treated area for 2 weeks. This means no facials or rubbing. If there is bruising you may take arnica tablets, some areas are more likely to bruise than others. Please do not apply makeup for 24 hours. A cold compress may be applied if swelling is evident.
If you are having the “5” or “10” point lift you will be given antibiotics to take for a few days post treatment. With this lift you may not be able to open your mouth wide or laugh for a few days without some discomfort and dental treatment will not be possible for two weeks. You may take simple analgesia for these symptoms. Do not take anti-inflammatories as these counteract the PDO treatment unless prescribed for a medical condition.
Do not expose the treated areas to direct sunlight for 7 days and avoid exercise, saunas and temperature extremes for 2 weeks.Alcohol and omega fish oil supplements increase bruising as these thin the blood so please also avoid taking these for 7 days.
What results can I expect?
Immediately afterwards you may be pink, have some bruising and some times a dark line can be visible where certain threads have been implanted, these resolve without any intervention over the following week. The area treated will feel tighter than before, may feel “stingy” or “pulling” or “scratchy” too which is normal. This sensation can last for 5 weeks. Results are visible immediately, though results vary from person to person. Over the following 90-180 days the PDO threads will stimulate collagen while they are gently broken down by the body’s immune system. You will be offered a review appointment 1-3 months after any PDO treatment.
Can I still have Botox, fillers and peels?
Yes, the results will be more dramatic if PDO thread lift is combined with these treatments. You will be advised when you can have these treatments so you can plan in advance.However, avoid IPL, radio frequency to the treated areas for 10 weeks after having PDO Threads.
Are there any contraindications to having PDO Thread Lift?
PDO thread lifting is a very safe procedure. If you suffer from keloid scarring, then you will not be suitable to have this treatment nor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you are insulin dependent diabetic your sugar levels must be stable and obviously if there is an active infection around the area to be treated, you would be unsuitable until the infection resolves. Types of infection would be cold sores or impetigo for example. If you are allergic to any of the products used i.e. topical anaesthetics then you would need to discuss this further.
Are there any complications I should be aware of?
Possible complications may include Infection, swelling, bruising, foreign body reaction in epidermis (granuloma) and protrusion of threads through the skin. Extremely rarely, temporary facial nerve bruising/damage may occur due to local anaesthetic, swelling, haematoma or pressure of the cannula or thread on the nerve. Your practitioner MUST be informed immediately if facial nerve bruising/damage is suspected.
How do I book an appointment or contact the clinic?
You can book/contact us online via the website or mobile 07930973445.