Removal of PDO threads?

Question

Please, I need advice. 2 weeks ago I had 4 PDO mezo-threads put into my cheek area. After swelling went down I can see the threads being partly visible under the skin and have couple of bumps and dents. Definetly look worse. Is it possible to remove the threads or is it the only solution to wait until they get naturaly absorbed? If they can be removed - how difficult is it comparing to the original procedure of the application? Thanks!!!

Daniel Chang, MSc, MBBS, MRCS · Answer

Dear Babs80,
Thank you for your question.
Threads can be divided into absorbable and non absorbable sutures. The trend now is for absorbable sutures, of which we have PDO and PLLA.
Threadlift is a minimally invasive treatment, and it appeals to people because of this fact. Removal of a thread is not so straightforward. The tissue trauma, swelling, bruising and pain makes it a rather invasive process so many doctors feel it is much better to give time to allow for the threads to dissolve.
After a threadlift procedure, it is best to wait for swelling to settle, which takes up to a month, before doing any further work.
After 3 months, neocollagenesis occurs. PDO sutures would have dissolved to a good extent, while for PLLA sutures, there is a core of collagen around the suture, making it extremely traumatic to remove.
In general, it is best to not remove absorbable threads unless there is a strong medical reason, for example infection. Skin irregularities will resolve with time so there is no need for thread removal.
I agree that RF can help speed up the dissolving of the thread.
I hope this helps.

Jordan Jacobs Medical Artistry · Answer

Hello!
Threads can absolutely be removed. It is easier to remove the threads sooner rather than later- the longer you wait to remove the threads, the more difficult it becomes. As the threads settle into the skin, collagen forms around the thread, causing it to be embedded in the tissue. If you are considering thread removal, I recommend contacting your practitioner as soon as possible. 
With Love & Gratitude,Jordan Jacobs, RN, CANSOwner/CEOAesthetic Injector

Lakshmi Palakurthi, MD · Answer

since you endured the cost and the pain of undergoing the procedure,if you want to keep the threads, you can choose to get radiofrequency treatments and/or bacteriostatic water injections to the local area to softer or partially dissolve the threads till the look is acceptable to you. If not, a skillful provider can take it out with a small incision at the right location in the office. Hope this helps

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Heat will cause the PDO threads to dissolve. A RF device will heat the threads enough to degrade them. A laser probably won't go deep enough because they are deep to the dermis.

Removal of PDO threads?

Answers (4)

Answer: PDO Threads can be dissolved with RF (Radiofrequency)

Answer: PDO Threads can be dissolved with RF (Radiofrequency)

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Removal of PDO threads?

Answers (4)

Answer: PDO Threads can be dissolved with RF (Radiofrequency)

Answer: PDO Threads can be dissolved with RF (Radiofrequency)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Thread Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.