Everything You Need To Know About the PDO Thread Lift

What is a PDO Thread Lift?
A PDO thread lift is a new & effective anti aging treatment that produces a subtle but visible lift in the skin by using temporary 360 degrees barbed sutures called PDO threads. The PDO threads are inserted under the skin with a cannula by Dr. Villar, and once inserted, they will lift the skin upwards and stimulate collagen synthesis over time. 

How exactly does it work?

PDO threads work in 3 different ways:
1. They mechanically result in instant skin lifting
2. They contract fat tissue to result in skin tightening
3. They promote collagen production to renew your skin on a cellular level

All of these things will work together to give you a subtle lift, enhanced skin texture, fewer fine lines & wrinkles, and more elastic skin.

What areas can a PDO thread lift treat?
A PDO thread lift is customized to your face, skin texture and aesthetic goals. Depending on the area you want treated, you may receive three or four carefully placed barbed threads. PDO thread lifts are incredibly versatile and can treat virtually any area of the face. You will be able to discuss your areas of concern with the Doctor before your treatment, or treat the whole face at one time!

Areas the PDO thread lift can be done include:

  • Eyes & eyebrows (the ‘Fox Eye’ Lift is a very popular treatment right now!)
  • Under eye area
  • Crows feet
  • Jowls
  • Jaw line
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Marionette lines
  • Cheeks
  • Double chin & neck

How long does the treatment take & does it hurt?
Injectable anesthetic and numbing cream will be applied to make sure you’re comfortable during your treatment. The PDO threads are inserted under the skin by Dr. Villar using cannulas. Once inserted into the appropriate layer of skin, they act as anchors as the skin is lifted upwards. It’s a minimally invasive procedure & is considered relatively painless, however, there is the possibility of swelling, tenderness and bruising afterwards.

One of the best things about this treatment is that it takes roughly 30 minutes to an hour, so it’s very quick. After that, you’re free to go back to work and normal activities, avoiding strenuous workouts for 2 weeks.

How long until I see results & how long do they last?
Results of the treatment, such as skin lifting & contouring effects, are visible immediately. In fact, your skin may look visibly lifted & tighter when you leave the clinic. This effect will be most dramatic at first, and will then soften and appear to go back to a natural look. The magic happens when the collagen is stimulated by the threads over time, which varies with each individual, and results can last for up to 12 months. Factors include how quickly your body produces new, healthy collagen, which is the protein responsible for plumping up your cheeks, filling in fine lines and smoothing out wrinkles.


Who can have the PDO thread lift done?
Patents of any age with moderate skin laxity that want to prevent aging and lift and tighten the skin. Patients who have not had any surgery within the last 3-4 months, and who are not heavy smokers or heavy drinkers.


What do I need to know before my appointment?
Since PDO thread lifts are non-invasive, there isn’t a lot you need to do to prepare. However, there are some precautionary measures you can take to ensure the best results from your treatment. There are some things you should avoid one to two days before treatment such as, alcohol, caffeine, advil/ibuprofen, fish oil supplements, Vitamin E, Intense workouts, steamroom, saunas, and hottubs. 

What do I need to do after the treatment?
You can more or less go back to life as normal, but there are some things you can do to ensure proper results and minimize discomfort. You may want to use an ice pack after your treatment to minimize swelling and bruising. You will want to avoid pulling down your facial skin for 3 weeks, no facial massages, or other facial treatments. Avoid strenuous workouts for 2 weeks, such as weight lifting, pilates, cardio, etc; as this may cause the threads to move. Avoid exaggerated facial expressions or opening your mouth too wide for 3 weeks. We recommend sleeping on your back for about 3 weeks as well.

How many treatments will I need?
Most of our clients are happy with their results after just one treatment. We advise coming back to the clinic in six to nine months after your first treatment so we can determine if you need a follow-up treatment. Maintenance or additional treatment areas can be done as needed.

If you want to know more about the PDO thread lift or book a consultation or appointment with Dr. Villar, give our clinic a call or email us. You’ll also want to follow us on Instagram for before & after photos and specials & promos.