Two of the most common signs of aging are skin laxity and wrinkling. Both of these aging imperfections are caused by the body’s reduction of collagen production, which is a key protein found in our skin that helps keep our skin tight and youthful. If skin laxity and wrinkling are both impacting how you feel toward your appearance, one option for you is a non-surgical facelift using absorbable PDO threads.
At MD Brothers, our board-certified cosmetic surgery specialists, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi, bring years of expertise in advanced aesthetic treatments to help you achieve natural-looking results with minimally invasive techniques.
What are PDO threads?
PDO threads are hypodermic needles that contain absorbable polydioxanone (PDO) sutures, which play an important role in this procedure. PDOs are used for cardiothoracic surgery and as such, are one of the safest materials to insert in the body. With their absorption capabilities, PDO threads dissolve in the body after 4-6 months following your facelift treatment.
How does it work?
During the procedure, the PDO threads are administered into the designated treatment area close to the exterior of the skin. The threading is implanted into the skin as the needle is removed.
Gradually, the PDO threads will begin to stimulate the body’s production of collagen in the skin. As additional collagen is created, the targeted areas tighten and skin laxity is reduced for a younger looking facial profile.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Your PDO thread lift treatment typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on the areas being treated. Before the procedure begins, a local anesthetic is applied to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment. The doctor will carefully insert the threads using a thin needle in strategic locations to achieve the desired lifting effect. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure and can return to normal activities shortly after treatment.
Ideal Candidates
PDO thread lifts are ideal for patients experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity who want to avoid surgical intervention. The best candidates are generally between 30-60 years old with relatively good skin elasticity. This treatment works well for those looking to address sagging jowls, drooping eyebrows, nasolabial folds, or loose neck skin. During your consultation, our doctors will evaluate your skin condition and aesthetic goals to determine if PDO threads are the right solution for you.
Recovery and Results
One of the major advantages of PDO thread lifts is the minimal downtime required. Most patients experience mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness for a few days following treatment. You can typically return to work and daily activities within 1-2 days. Results are visible immediately and continue to improve over the following weeks as collagen production increases. The lifting effects can last 12-18 months, with optimal results appearing around 2-3 months post-treatment.
The Benefits
There are many benefits to choosing this non-surgical facelift with PDO threads. The threads are among the safest materials to be implanted within the body, and they are naturally absorbed. The treatment does not require a single cut or incision, so there is no fear of leaving behind extensive scarring, which can come with some surgical approaches.
Why Choose MD Brothers for PDO Thread Lifts
At MD Brothers, we specialize in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures that deliver exceptional results. Our board-certified physicians, Dr. Nael Gharbi and Dr. Shazel Gharbi, have extensive experience in facial rejuvenation techniques and are dedicated to helping each patient achieve their aesthetic goals safely and effectively. We use only the highest quality PDO threads and advanced techniques to ensure natural-looking results. Our personalized approach means every treatment is customized to your unique facial structure and desired outcomes, providing you with the expert care you deserve.
FAQs
PDO threads can be strategically placed in several areas where mild to moderate laxity has developed. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, jowls, jawline, eyebrows, and neck. Threads may also improve the appearance of nasolabial folds by repositioning nearby tissue. Your treatment plan will depend on your facial anatomy and the areas you want to address.
A PDO thread lift provides a less invasive approach to facial rejuvenation. Threads reposition mildly lax tissue while stimulating collagen production, whereas a surgical facelift removes excess skin and repositions deeper facial tissues. A thread lift generally involves considerably less downtime but cannot provide the degree of correction possible with surgery. It is typically better suited to earlier or more moderate signs of facial aging.
There is no standard number of threads required for every patient. The number and placement depend on the treatment area, degree of laxity, facial structure, and desired improvement. Treating one localized area may require fewer threads than addressing multiple areas of the lower face and neck.
You may temporarily notice tightness, tenderness, or unusual sensations around the treated areas while swelling subsides and the tissues adjust. The threads themselves are placed beneath the skin and gradually dissolve. Following your aftercare instructions is important during the initial healing period.
Your doctor will provide personalized aftercare instructions. You may be advised to temporarily avoid strenuous exercise and activities that place excessive pressure or movement on the treated areas. You may also need to postpone certain facial treatments while the threads settle. Following these recommendations helps protect the treated tissues during early healing.
Yes. Because PDO threads gradually dissolve and facial aging continues, some patients choose additional treatment after their initial results diminish. Whether another thread lift is appropriate depends on how your face has changed, your skin quality, and your goals at that time. A follow-up evaluation can determine whether additional threads or another facial rejuvenation treatment would be more suitable.
PDO thread lifts address facial aging differently from injectables. Threads primarily reposition tissue and stimulate collagen, while dermal fillers can restore lost volume and BOTOX can soften wrinkles caused by repeated muscle movement. For patients with multiple concerns, these treatments may sometimes be incorporated into a customized facial rejuvenation plan rather than relying on one procedure to accomplish everything.
The goal of a PDO thread lift is to reposition lax tissue while maintaining natural facial proportions and movement. Careful placement matters because each person’s facial anatomy and aging pattern are different. At MD Brothers in Chicago, our providers customize thread placement to your features and desired level of correction, emphasizing refreshed, natural-looking results.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Ready to discover how a PDO thread lift can rejuvenate your appearance? Contact MD Brothers today to schedule your personalized consultation. Our expert team is here to answer your questions and help you achieve a more youthful, refreshed look. Call us at (312) 416-6172 to learn more about PDO thread lifts and our comprehensive range of aesthetic treatments.