More Australians are turning to non-surgical treatments when it comes to achieving a naturally rejuvenated and authentic complexion. This demand has driven some really great innovation. Front and center of this are PDO threads. So, what are they and how do they work? Is it a suitable treatment option for me? What can I expect results wise? And what’s the downtime and aftercare involved? Here’s everything you need to know about PDO threads.
What are PDO threads? How do they work?
There are two kinds of PDO threads – smooth threads for collagen boosting and mechanical threads for lifting.
I’d like to focus on the first type – smooth threads – as it has the widest applicability. PDO smooth threads are tiny, smooth threads made of dissolvable stitch material called polydioxanone (PDO). This is the same material that is used for internal stitches in surgery. When placed just underneath the skin, the threads stimulate collagen production.
As we age, we lose collagen and elastin from the deep layers of the skin. This in turn results in loss of skin volume, laxity, sagging and wrinkles. PDO smooth threads address these issues early on by replacing collagen and is a smart way to naturally manage the ageing process. They provide a supporting scaffold from beneath which helps support overlying skin, improving skin quality, and giving a firmer appearance and feel to skin. They also help to control fine lines.
PDO smooth threads will dissolve over a period of three months, by which time your body has formed collagen along the lines of thread placement. Best results are seen at around three months and will last around a year. Some clients will notice a difference as early as six weeks.
What happens on the day and what aftercare is required?
On the day, we will cleanse and numb your skin. Tiny threads are then placed in the target areas. This is not an uncomfortable treatment, however we do have a number of pain management options available should you require them. You will experience some swelling and bruising following the treatment. The swelling usually lasts three to five days and bruising may last a little longer, up to a week or so. There is no need to stop your skincare regime beforehand but we advise you omit it for 24 hours afterwards. Similarly, we advise no exercise for 48 hours post treatment.
Is it a suitable treatment for me?
Like any treatment, we need to choose the right one, for the right client, to treat the appropriate issue. PDO threads are great but may not be for everyone. As always, the key to choosing the right treatment for best results, is to choose the right clinician that has the expertise and experience to advise you correctly. Expert consulting is our point of difference at Artisan.
Dr Andreas Fox MA, BMBCh, DM, FRCS(Plast) is a highly skilled medical clinician with 20 years of experience working as a consultant plastic and aesthetic surgeon for some of London’s largest and most prestigious hospitals, before moving to Sydney to pursue a career in non-invasive medical aesthetics as a treating doctor at Artisan Aesthetic Clinics.