Thread lifts have become a minimally invasive alternative to the facelift for patients who are not ready to undergo more aggressive treatment options. Although the effects from a thread lift will be temporary and not as dramatic as a facelift, improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can be seen gradually as the procedure stimulates natural collagen production. PDO sutures are a type of material used for thread lifts. PDO, which stands for polydioxanone, is an absorbable polymer that is flexible and durable for minimally invasive thread lifts. PDO thread lifts, sometimes referred to as PDS thread lifts, come in a variety of textures. There are three main textures of PDO sutures: mono, cog, and screw threads. Mono threads are singular, smooth sutures that are anchored to the face that provide a small lift to the face. Cog threads have a barbed texture that provide better lift and increased collagen production. Screw threads have 1-2 intertwined threads which provide volume to the treated area. For patients who only desire skin tightening and rejuvenation, mono threads may be sufficient. Patients who desire more lifting and volume will better benefit from textured cog or screw threads. Read More
There is no need to worry that threads are left underneath the skin. They facilitate the new growth and dissolve completely on their own, without leaving residual material, in about 6 months through a natural process called hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is painless and simply refers to a chemical breakdown caused by a reaction with water. After the threads have dissolved, the new collagen and fibrous tissues will have already formed in the treated areas and will continue to show a lifted effect, restoring youthfulness to the area.
Although it is always best to meet with your plastic surgeon to determine the best plan of action for your specific skin type, professionals agree that thread lift candidates should avoid all alcohol and discontinue smoking for at least a week before the procedure as these things will dehydrate the skin and interfere with the anesthetic. All aspirin-based products should be avoided as well as cause unnecessary bleeding leading to unwanted complications and side effects. Blood-thinning products include Ibuprofen, Neurofen, and Naproxen/Naprogesic. Click Here
Some thread lift patients might feel nausea associated with the after-effects of the anesthesia or the procedure itself and can sip small amounts of clear liquids until it passes. It is also helpful, especially if your skin tends to swell or bruise, to ice the area for 30 minutes 4-5 times a day for the first 5 days.
