Plastic surgery isn’t the only way to tighten the skin and combat visible signs of aging.
A PDO thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that can achieve comparable results without the need for any incisions, bandages, or downtime. It uses dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten the skin and can be performed in less than an hour in the clinic.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Matrix PDO Threads. You’ll learn what it involves, what to expect, and how much it costs.
What Are PDO Threads?
PDO threads are a type of suture made from absorbable polydioxanone that is broken down by the body in around 6 months. This type of suture has been used in surgeries for more than 40 years.
With a matrix PDO thread lift, the sutures are strategically placed to tighten the skin and stimulate collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein that provides the building block for healthy, smooth, younger-looking skin.
The loss of collagen production is one of the leading causes of aging skin.
What Happens During a PDO Thread Lift?
Before a PDO thread lift, you will need to attend a consultation with the practitioner. This is so they can determine if the treatment is right for you and so you can learn about the potential risks and aftercare instructions.
During the treatment, your practitioner will cleanse your face and apply a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort.
Next, a small incision will be made, and a cannula will be inserted to guide the sutures. The practitioner will then pull the thread through and anchor it in place to lift the skin. This process is repeated in multiple strategic locations.
Once the cannula is removed, the thread is cut, and your practitioner will make sure it is secure before completing the procedure.
The entire procedure takes around 45 minutes, and you can leave the clinic and go back to most daily activities immediately.
What Areas of the Face Can a PDO Thread Lift Treat?
A PDO thread lift can improve most areas of the face that show visible signs of aging. The most common treatment areas are the jawline, cheeks, neck, and eye area.
The procedure can be used as a standalone treatment or combined with other cosmetic therapies for more dramatic results.
PDO Thread Lift Recovery
There is little to no downtime following a PDO thread lift. It’s common for patients to experience mild swelling, bruising, and redness for the first couple of days, but you should be able to go back to work and social activities as soon as the treatment is complete.
It’s important to avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the treated area in the first-week post-treatment. This can increase the risk of a thread becoming accidentally dislodged.
You will also be advised to avoid exercise for the first 48 hours and to avoid using drinking straws, smoking, or pursuing your lips for two weeks after the PDO thread lift.
PDO Thread Lift Side Effects
The risk of side effects from a PDO thread lift is minimal compared to a surgical facelift. The most common side effects are mild bruising, inflammation, and soreness for a few days following treatment.
In rare cases, a suture can become dislodged. There is also a small risk of infection.
Unlike a surgical facelift, there are no scarring, bleeding, or risks of general anesthesia.
How Long Does a PDO Thread Lift Last?
The longevity of results from a matrix PDO thread lift can vary from patient to patient. Generally, you can expect results to last for 12-18 months. Younger patients tend to experience longer results as the treatment stimulates stronger collagen production. Older patients tend to experience shorter results.
According to a 2019 study, the results of a PDO thread lift can last from 1 year up to 9 years.
PDO Thread Lift Cost
There are lots of factors that determine PDO thread lift cost. For example, your location, the severity of your skin aging, and the clinic and practitioner can all impact the cost of the procedure.
You should receive a full quote during an initial consultation before agreeing to proceed with a PDO thread lift.
Is a Matrix PDO Thread Lift Right For You?
Matrix PDO threads can be a great alternative to a surgical facelift. It’s a powerful collagen-boosting procedure that involves much less risk and cost than a traditional facelift.
The best way to determine if this treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a qualified practitioner.