Loose, sagging skin on the neck can occur as a result of ageing and weight loss, but for some is just a case of genetics. Caused by a loss of elasticity in the skin and the emergence of the thin bands of muscle in the neck called the platysmal bands, the issue becomes more prominent with old age, but for those genetically predisposed it can appear as early as the late twenties.
PDO therapy is an effective cosmetic technique that lifts and tighten sagging skin tissues by inducing collagen production. It involves the implantation of fine, absorbable polydioxanone threads into the subcutaneous layer of the skin using small needles.
These threads remain implanted in the skin causing micro-injuries that stimulate collagen synthesis and tissue contraction. After six months, the threads will be absorbed into the body leaving new collagen in their place.
What are PDO Threads?
PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are absorbable sutures that were initially developed for use in cardiac surgery procedures. PDO threads have received FDA clearance for soft tissue approximation and are now recognized as a safe, minimally-invasive alternative to traditional aesthetic procedures such as full face, jaw, marionette lines, brow, and neck-lifts.
PDO Threads help to stimulate collagen production which tightens, smooths and plumps the aging skin. There are two types of threads, lifting threads for sagging skin to give a more immediate effect and smooth threads for stimulating collagen production to tighten the skin and bring new blood flow to an area. The threads are also ideal for fine lines and acne scars.
Once inserted into the sub-dermal layer of the skin, the threads provide an instant “lift” of the surrounding skin, and stimulate endogenous collagen production to improve skin texture, fine lines and the function of elastin, the main protein constituent of elastic connective tissue in the skin.
A special numbing cream is placed on the skin and then additional anesthesia is used if needed. The threads are placed in the area that is in need of being treated by placing them under the dermis. The thread is automatically released when the needle is removed.
Work of PDO Threads
As mentioned above lifting threads are used for sagging skin to pull the skin back for a immediate effect. Smooth threads stimulate collagen production and help to tighten the skin and bring new blood flow to an area. They give fantastic definition to the lips and aid in revolumization.
Both use fully absorbable threads that stimulate your own natural collagen production and give you glowing skin as they are absorbed over 4 to 6 months with effects that last 12 to 24 months. These can be used with dermal fillers.
Application of Thread Lift
When we age, our skin and facial fat tend to lose collagen and succumb to gravity, therefore sinking downwards. Youthful skin has that plump look due to the Thread lifting techniques essentially use threads to pull the sagging skin upwards and promote collagen regeneration. Depending on the thread type used, the effect can be permanent or semi-permanent.
The threads can be arranged in a crisscross pattern — always going upwards and to the side of the face, to create a support network for holding the sagging skin up and smoothing out deep set wrinkles. For those wanting a natural lifting effect or for smaller regions such as nasolabial folds, short threads such as PDO threads are used.
Treatment Care for a Thread Lift
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.
Expect After Thread Lift
Recovery after a successful thread lift is quite minimal. While there may be some visible swelling and bruising, you can go back to work right away.
Results should be apparent right after the threads are put into place, but you may notice more in the days and weeks right after they are inserted, as swelling and bruising starts to subside.
Results from a thread lift aren’t meant to be permanent. Successful effects typically last from 1 to 3 years. Like other dissolvable dermal fillers, such as Botox, the threads used in the procedure will eventually be absorbed by the tissue underneath your skin.
After a thread lift, you can resume your normal routine. Your provider may advise you not to rub your face vigorously and to avoid sleeping on your side in the initial weeks following the procedure.
