No one can deny that, as we age, gravity takes a toll on our faces. And as the facial support structure weakens and we lose facial fat, our skin starts to loosen, resulting in an older-looking face. Naturally, people would want to improve their appearance and look into plastic surgery to get a well-deserved facelift. However, nowadays, nonsurgical procedures, such as PDO thread lifts, are becoming increasingly popular amongst all types of people. But what is a PDO thread lift, and is it a reliable alternative to facelift surgeries?
What Is a PDO Thread Lift?
Generally speaking, a thread lift is a procedure that involves a dissolvable suture whose purpose is to tighten and lift your skin. What makes PDO unique is that it uses a biodegradable polyester suture, which makes it great for rejuvenating skin tissue. There are three types of PDO threads and are easily available on rm365.ie, each having a unique purpose:
- Cog Threads have barbs that attach to your skin, similar to a fishhook, to lift parts of your face
- Mono Threads are smooth sutures that stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate your skin
- Screw Threads are made out of intertwined threads and are designed to restore volume to sunken parts of your skin
The PDO Thread Lift Procedure
Even though the exact procedure might vary depending on your surgeon, most follow a specific pattern. For starters, the surgeon will inject a local anesthetic under your skin and make a small opening using a needle. He will then insert a cannula, which is a small device, into the hole and anchor the threads into place. Afterward, he will pull out the cannula and cut the thread, making sure it is secure and stable.
Aftercare
Since the procedure doesn’t require complex surgery, you are free to go home once it’s done. Yet, you might notice some light bruising or swelling for the next 24 to 48 hours. Additionally, you should avoid drinking through a straw and smoking for several weeks after the procedure. Otherwise, you run the risk of dislodging the thread or causing inflammation.
PDO Thread Lift Price
The price of a PDO thread lift varies drastically depending on the area you live in and the extent of the procedure. But usually, you should expect to pay anywhere between $500 and $5,000. And since PDO thread lifting is a cosmetic procedure, there’s a high chance that your insurance won’t cover it. Yet, some clinics are offering payment plans to spread the costs over months.
PDO Thread Lift Complications
Like other facial surgeries and procedures, PDO thread lifts can cause a few complications. However, it’s important to understand that the risk of complications is much lower compared to facelift surgeries. Nevertheless, some patients encounter at least one of the following side effects:
- Pain
- Visible sutures
- Infection
- Hair loss
- Inflammations
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Dimpling
The Benefits of a PDO Thread Lift
From price to effectiveness, the following are just a few benefits of PDO thread lifts:
- Affordable — While their price varies, PDO thread lifts are more affordable than similar procedures such as facelift surgery.
- Long-Lasting — Usually, it takes about six months for the threads to dissolve fully. However, the results last for no less than two years due to how the procedure stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
- Non-Invasive — PDO thread lift procedures are less invasive than facelift surgery, allowing you to leave the doctor’s office immediately after the procedure.
- Effective — Some patients can see the results of PDO thread lifts as soon as the procedure is done. But usually, it takes two months for new collagen to form and cause noticeable effects.
The Verdict: Are PDO Thread Lifts Worth It?
Overall, a PDO thread lift is an affordable and reliable way to reduce the effects of aging. And while there are a few possible complications, they are pretty rare and easily corrected. As a result, we believe that PDO thread lifts are an alternative to facelifts that everyone should consider giving a try.