A PDO thread lift is a minimally invasive procedure that involves passing dissolvable threads beneath the surface of your skin to provide some immediate lift and stimulate collagen growth over time, resulting in firmer tissue.
Well-placed threads can create subtle, natural-looking results and a more youthful appearance—especially in the midface, lower face, under the chin, and along the jawline.
Some providers also offer what they call a cat eye or fox eye thread lift, a nonsurgical alternative to canthoplasty that uses PDO threads to lift and elongate the outer corner of the upper eyelid.
PDO stands for polydioxanone, a dissolvable material that’s commonly used in surgical sutures. You may also see the occasional threading procedure marketed as a “sugar lift,” since PDO threads are made from long chains of polysaccharide (aka sugar).
Some threads also have tiny barbs or cones that help them attach to the tissue, so it can be lifted or pulled. “When explaining to patients how threads work, I like to use the term ‘micro-extensions,’ which sounds more acceptable than ‘barbs,’” says Dr. Vu Ho, a board-certified facial plastic surgeonin Plano, Texas.
As facial threads are absorbed over the course of about six months, they stimulate a natural healing response that boosts natural collagen production and gradually firms the tissue.
The facial rejuvenation procedure has been dubbed a “lunchtime facelift” because it’s quick, with minimal downtime compared to facelift surgery. There’s a lot of hype and marketing about how fast and easy it is, but even though it’s not plastic surgery, it shouldn’t be done casually. Complications can happen.
For best results, seek out a well-trained and experienced provider (ideally a board-certified dermatological or facial plastic surgeon) with expertise in a range of facial rejuvenation techniques, who can ensure you're a good candidate for facial threading and manage any complications that arise.
