What are PDO Threads?
PDO threads are an effective minimally invasive procedure that serves as the best alternative to a non-surgical facelift. They stimulate collagen production, tighten the skin, and reduce signs of aging. The procedure leaves no scars, requires minimal recovery time, and provides an immediate lifting effect to the skin. The process takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes, allowing you to return to your routine immediately afterward.
Polydioxanone Threads are the signature treatment method of Uplifted, for which we are well-known. In fact, our story began with our founder Hula’s dream—to improve the threading experience for patients and teach doctors the best techniques. Widely recognized as a national trainer in PDO thread application, Hula is deeply passionate about her craft. If you’re considering PDO threads, look no further. Uplifted is your ultimate destination for threading.
How Do PDO Threads Work?
Collagen production is known to combat the signs of aging. By inserting PDO threads under the skin with needles, a controlled trauma is created, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Thread lifts also encourage the body’s natural collagen production as a healing response to the treated areas. The insertion of threads rejuvenates facial tissues and provides gradual and long-lasting improvement in skin firmness. Once the threads dissolve, the skin in the treated areas naturally becomes firmer and more youthful.
Types of PDO Threads We Use
At Uplifted Aesthetics in Redondo Beach, CA, we customize every PDO thread treatment to your facial structure, concerns, and aesthetic goals. There are several types of threads, each designed for specific purposes—lifting, smoothing, or volumizing—to ensure a natural yet noticeable transformation.
Lifting Threads
These barbed or cogged threads are designed to physically lift sagging skin, making them ideal for areas like the cheeks, jawline, jowls, and brows. Lifting threads anchor beneath the skin and provide an instant “lifted” effect, while also stimulating collagen for longer-term tightening and rejuvenation.
These threads are ideal for lifting and repositioning sagging skin in key areas:
- Jawline (jowls)
- Midface (cheek lift)
- Lower face (marionette lines)
- Brows (brow lift)
- Neck (mild skin laxity or “tech neck”)
- Nasolabial folds (when combined with volumizing or smooth threads)
Collagen Threads (Smooth Threads)
These are smooth, non-barbed threads that don’t lift but stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture, elasticity, and firmness over time. They’re perfect for treating fine lines around the eyes, mouth, neck, and décolletage, as well as for general skin revitalization.
Smooth threads focus on collagen stimulation to refine and rejuvenate the skin:
- Under eyes (fine lines and crepey skin)
- Crow’s feet
- Smile lines (nasolabial folds)
- Lip lines (smoker’s lines)
- Cheeks (for skin tightening, not volume)
- Chin and jawline (for skin firming)
- Neck (fine lines, crepiness)
- Décolletage (skin tightening and fine lines)
Volumizing Threads
Sometimes referred to as “twist” or “screw” threads, these are used in areas where mild volume loss has occurred. They offer a natural alternative to dermal fillers, gradually building structure and volume by encouraging collagen synthesis without adding synthetic material.
These threads are perfect for mild volume loss and adding soft contour:
- Midface (cheek contour and volume)
- Nasolabial folds (mild to moderate depth)
- Marionette lines
- Chin (projection and definition)
- Temples (mild hollowing)
- Jawline (contour enhancement)
- Décolletage (plumping thinning skin)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results from a PDO Thread Treatment last?
The results of a PDO lift can last up to 18 months. Although the threads dissolve within 6-9 months, the effect lasts longer due to collagen stimulation.
What does a PDO Thread Treatment look like?
Before starting the procedure, the aesthetician outlines the trajectory for placing the threads to create the best lift for the patient’s facial tissues. Threads can be inserted into the cheeks, brows, forehead, and neck to achieve a result similar to a surgical facelift. The cosmetic doctor first applies local anesthesia to numb your face. Then, they lift the skin by making small punctures where the threads will be inserted. Once the threads are in place, they grab the loose skin and lift it, reducing lines and wrinkles for a full facial rejuvenation. Results may be noticeable immediately or over a few months, but they vary from person to person.
What can I expect for Aftercare for a PDO Thread Treatment?
Immediately after the procedure, there may be temporary swelling, bruising, or redness, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by our doctor and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Are there any side effects?
Generally, PDO thread procedures have a low risk of side effects. The most common side effect is a feeling of tightness in the skin, which usually resolves within two weeks. Bruising is also possible, but it typically disappears within a week.