Thread lifts used to involve surgery and became associated with undesirable side effects such as infections and thread breakage. However, the thread lift procedure has radically changed. Most thread lifting procedures today are non-invasive. While there are many different types of thread lifts, such as Silhouette Soft, the PDO thread lift is amongst the most popular today. The threads are made in South Korea, and is one of the most commonly performed skin lifting procedures today.
What is the PDO Thread Lift?
The PDO Thread Lift is a treatment which lifts and tightens sagging skin tissue, using threads made of Polydioxanone (PDO). The threads introduces them into the deeper layers of the skin. Once introduced, the threads produce 3 effects in the skin:
- Instant Skin Lifting through mechanical effects
- Cellular Renewel, through Collagen stimulation, and neovascularisation to improve skin texture, fine lines and elasticity
- Skin Tightening, by contracting fat tissue
About 6 months after the procedure, the PDO threads will disappear through simple hydrolysis (they are absorbable). The lifted facial contours will remain for about 3-6 months more, due to the cellular rejuvenation effects. Your skin cells are stimulated to produce new collagen, and new blood vessels to improve skin microcirculation. At the same time, the PDO threads cause the fat tissue to contract, producing a skin tightening and facial slimming effect.
How is PDO Thread Lift Done?
A PDO Thread Lift is a minimally invasive procedure. After numbing and infusion of local anesthetia, the PDO threads are inserted via sharp or blunt tip needles (called cannulas) into different layers of the skin. Once inserted, the threads anchor the skin and lift it upwards. The excess threads are then cut off.
Depending on the areas treated, the procedure takes 15-30 minutes. There is some discomfort during the proceudre, but because of the improved techniques, my patients are experiencing less and less pain.
See the procedure:
Are There Different Types of PDO Threads?
There are many types of PDO threads – and this can be confusing for patients, and even doctors.
In general, PDO threads can be divided into floating, non-barbed threads and barbed threads. These can be further sub-classified in several ways:
| PDO Threads | |
|---|---|
| Non-Barbed | Barbed |
| Mono-filament threads | Unilateral vs bilateral |
| Braided threads | Uni-directional vs bi-directional vs z-type |
| Cutting barbs vs molding barbs | |
You may have heard of fancy names like “double screw” or “tornado”, or “heart barbs”. They all refer to threads in one of the categories described above. In addition, PDO threads come in different thickness and length. These all affect their quality, tensile strength, effectiveness, and of course, price of your treatment.
Your doctor may choose to use different threads for you, depending on your skin lifting and rejuventation needs. I will not describe the different threads in detail here as it is very much a professional discussion – you can ask your doctor more during your consult with him/her.
Is PDO Thread Lift Safe? What are the Possible Side Effects?
This treatment is surprisingly safe. Compared to fillers, the side effects are, in fact, much milder (fillers can even cause skin death and blindness). Because PDO threads are inserted via needles and not surgery, and are absorbed in 6-8 months, many of the side effects associated with older thread lifting procedures, such as infection and thread breakage are also minimised.
Depending on the types of threads used and areas treated, bruising may or may not occur. For the High Definition K-Lift which I do in my clinic, there is no to minimal bruising. Expect some mild swelling and soreness for 3 to 5 days after the procedure, and a sensation of tightness (mild) of up to 2 weeks. Temporary mild dimpling of the skin can also occur – an resolves in a few days.
Some side effects are related to the technique of insertion, and the types of threads used. These include surface depressions, thread migration and even extrustion, facial assymetry, prolonged pain, and prolonged dimpling. PDO threads are not created equal – and your doctor’s training in the procedure is also extremely important in ensuring a good outcome with minimal side effects from your procedure.
Finally, more serious side effects, though rare, can occur. These include infection, nerve damage, formation of nodules, and damage to the salivary ducts. The face has a very complex anatomical structure. Intimate anatanomical knowledge is required to perform a PDO thread lift well, and to avoid serious side effects.
The side effects are mostly manageable – removal of threads may be required in cases such as migration and extrusion. I previously had to remove some threads from my patients because some of the PDO unidirectional barb threads did not hook on well enough. There was no scarring after removal, and the problems resolved completely. Of course, I have stopped using those threads since.
The list of possible side effects from a PDO thread lift procedure include:
| Possible Side Effects From PDO Thread Lift | ||
|---|---|---|
| Common but Mild | Technique Related | Serious but Rare |
| Swelling | Prolonged skin dimpling | Infection |
| Soreness | Surface depression | Granuloma (hard nodule) |
| Bruising | Migration of threads | Parotid duct fistula (damage of salivary gland) |
| Temporary skin dimpling | Extrusion of threads | Nerve damage |
| Asymmetry | ||
| Prolonged pain | ||
What Do I Need to Take Note of Before and After The Procedure?
Like other treatments involving injections, avoid alcohol, supplements such as Vitamin E, Omega Fish oils, some Chinese medicines (e.g.白凤丸), gingko for 1-2 days before and after the procedure. Avoid going to the steam room, sauna, and engaging in heavy exercise such as High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT).
Following 2 weeks after the PDO Thread Lift, you are also discouraged from undergoing any dental treatment (which requires you to open your mouth excessively.)
You are also advised to sleep on your back to allow the swelling to subside and to avoid the putting pressure on the face that might cause misalignment of the threads. I give the option of some simple taping on the face to ensure the best results.
How is the Treatment Designed?
The PDO Thread Lift procedure is designed according to what we want to treat, and which areas we want to concentrate on. For example, for lifting, I use a combination of barbed threads of different thickness and lengths, inserted in 3-4 entry points. The treatment can also be designed according to your lifestyle needs – if you can take more swelling, I will insert more threads, and vice versa. The treatment can also be designed according to your lifestyle needs – if you can take more swelling, I will insert more threads, and vice versa.
PDO threads can be used for lifting, rejuvenation (improving skin texture and wrinkles), volumising, and even reducing fat. Different threads are used for different purposes. Every doctor’s technique is different, and the possibilities are endless – fo example, a “vertical method” is described in this study.
What Areas Can Be Treated with PDO Thread Lift?
The PDO thread lift is very versatile, allowing practically all areas of the face to be treated, including the:
- Undereye area
- Eyebrows
- Crow’s feet (wrinkles around eyes)
- Cheeks
- Nasolabial folds
- Naso jugal folds
- Wrinkles around mouth
- Jaw line
- Jowls
- Neck
The cheeks and lower face, in particular, benefit greatly from the procedure, allowing a lift which is synergistic to other skin lifting treatments such as Ultherapy.
What Results Can I Expect After The Treatment? How Long Do They Last?
Your skin is immediately lifted after a PDO thread lifting procedure, as the threads provide support to lift skin in its new position. You may look slightly tighter than the final result, but in about 1 week, you will begin to look much more natural.
The rejuvenative effects kick in after 1-2 months – you will notice better skin texture, firmer and smoother skin. Your doctor may concentrate more on either skin rejuvenation, or skin lifting during your procedure. Depending on the technique and which is used, the results will vary from person to person.
In about 9 months after the treatment, the threads would have dissolved, but the results will still continue for many more months. I recommend repeating the procedure 6-9 months after the first procedure, to allow for a long lasting result of up to 3 years.
Who is Suitable For a PDO Thread Lift?
The PDO Thread Lift is an effective non-surgical facelifting treatment that is suitable for anyone looking to improve the appearance of sagging skin. This treatment is suitable for someone who is willing to undergo some injections, and who want to attain an immediate lift of the facial contours without undergoing a facelift surgery. It is best suited for men and women who are unwilling to tolerate the long downtime of a facelift surgery but want to look refresh and lifted – naturally.
Compared to non-invasive face lifting options like Ultherapy, the PDO thread lift works faster, and has more visible results. However, the procedures work even better when combined for synergistic results.
There Are Now Korean PLLA and PCL Threads. Are They Better?
PDO, PLLA, and PCL are all names of different types of materials. These have been made into threads because they have high tensile strength, and are inert, so that they do not cause problems with excessive inflammation.
The main difference is in longevity, stiffness and tensile strength:
PDO (Polydioxanone) dissolves after 6-9 months
PLLA (Poly L Lactic Acid) dissolves after 12-18 months
PCL (Polycaprolactone) dissolves after 24- 36 months
While PLLA and PCL last longer than PDO threads, the longevity itself could be a double edged sword. Patients often report that Korean PLLA threads feel harder in the skin, with more tightness. This is owing to its higher tensile strength. Theretically, PLLA threads are a longer lasting alternative to PDO threads. However, more scientific literature is required to understand its efficacy and safety compared to PDO threads.
PCL threads are much newer compared to PDO threads, and reports are beginning to emerge about side effects associated with PCL threads such as increased migration, thread extrusion, and thread breakage. I would stay away from PCL threads until there is more literature supporting its use in non-surgical facial thread lifting.
How Does Korean PDO Thread Lift Compare with Silhouette Soft Thread Lift?
Both PDO thread lift and Silhouette Soft thread lift are excellent skin lifting procedures. However, they have very important differences. PDO better lifts skin, due to its configuration, while Silhouette Soft is better at compressing skin tissue to produce a volumising effect. Although Silhouette Soft threads are made up of PLLA, the technology is very different. They use cones instead of barbs to lift sagging skin.
Because we also use more threads during a PDO thread lift compared to a Silhouette Soft procedure, the PDO Thread Lift also pulls the skin back more.
In my opinion, the 2 procedures complement each other, and work even better, when performed together in a combination thread lift treatment.
Which Treatments Work Well With PDO Thread Lift?
The PDO Thread lift can be combined with other treaments such as HIFU or Ulthera to give a natural lifting result. It works particuarly well with bio-stimulating fillers such as Radiesse and Hyaluronic Acid fillers – to provide a comprehensive anti-aging solution which now allows us to turn back the clock for our patients, like never before, without surgery. The treatment is now indispensable in my practice.
Hi i if i do a nose threadlift, both bridge and tip, and don’t like the results, can i get back my original nose back? any change in facial structure?
Hi Kerry,
unless you remove the threads, which is often very difficult, you will have to wait for the threads to dissolve naturally. this will take 6- 9 months.
Hi Dr Siew! I had the PDO procedure about a month ago, and there was a terrible dimpling and surface depression on both cheeks, one more severe than the other, it looks as if I had a terrible car accident and I had been scared for life; is there a way to fix this? Is it permanent? Is there something I can do to improve my skin??
Can I send you some pictures so you can see the damage to my skin?
Hi Lizeth,
It is best for you to arrange for a consult with me if you like me to assess your skin condition. Feel free to make an appointment at +65 6837-0507.
Thank you.
Hi Dr.
Can you please recommend a way to speed up thread absorption? I don’t like the bulk that the threads themselves are adding to my face…
Hi Sheryl, thanks for your message. Sorry but there is no way to speed up thread resorption.
hi,
what is 26G-38mm and 30G-25.4mm, 29G-50mm pdo threas mean? is the number before the G the thickness what does G stand for and I’m assuming that the 50mm is the length of the thread?
I’m trying to research so I know what tehey are talking about and the length andthickness before insertion…I have a very thin face and have bells palsy, so I am nervous…i’d like to go with the thinest
Hi Belinda, these refer to the thickness of the cannula and length of the threads.
The thinnest may not be the best for you… better to speak to your doctor and seek his/ her opinion!
So dr.siew which of PDO kind and length do you recommend for ckecks ,lips and melo-mental fold
Hi Nadia – Your questions are very specific! It all depends on individual. I cannot tell you until I have done a face-to-face consultation with you. If you wish to get a thread lift, please go to a doctor you trust and listen to what he has to say.
Thanks for the great info.
Hi Dr Siew,
what factors affect the dissolvability of the thread ? Will regular exercise eg : dance, hot yoga and sauna make the thread dissolve faster ?
Hi Mia – thanks for your reply. Threads usually dissolve after 6 to 9 months after the treatment. However, there is little or no concrete studies done to show that regular exercise will affect the longevity of the threads. But your doctor will tell you more about the post-treatment protocol after the procedure.
Hi Dr ..I’m New in the field of Facial aesthetics..Your article was very informative.. I hope you could become my mentor ..I’m far away from Where you practice..but I will need your guidelines in patient selection.. I will share results of patients .. on a lighter note can I try putting threads on my self in front of a mirror.. Lol.
I had threads placed in my upper cheek/under eye to help minimize the appearance of a malar crease about 4 days ago. Immediate results looked great and I understand that was due to the possible swelling, etc. the 2nd day I was extremely happy as there was no additional swelling when I woke up. Yet, yesterday and this morning I have a big swollen under-eye (looks like when people swell from allergy or too much salt). My fear is that the collagen is building and this will be long-lasting! the area that has the threads has gotten firmer so I am just nervous that this is how it will settle? more nervous that I possibly could have gotten an infection or something? Am I just being over-concerned and should wait it out for another week?
Hello – Sorry to hear about this. Treatments especially around the eyes can be challenging because the area can be sensitive. Please go back to your doctor for a follow-up to see if he is able to help you to expedite the healing process.
Hi Dr Siew. I had the PDO procedure done a few months ago and the pain was awful. I was “numbed” 3 times, but never was really numb. I usually have a pretty high pain tolerance lever, so I was surprised at the pain! Results were minimal at best. I would like to try again, but am dreading the pain factor. Would a pain pill before procedure help? Or is there a different “numb-er” that I could ask for?
Hi Fawncyne – Thanks for your enquiry. There are several ways to make the treatment more comfortable such as taking painkillers, sedation, numbing, or even anaesthesia. Please check with your doctor on the suitability. Good luck!
How long does the KT tape have to stay in place? wondering as I nee to go back to work the next day.
Hi Patricia – it depends on the outcome of the treatment. It is best to go back to your doctor for a follow-up to determine this.
Hello Doctor
I had an eyebrow thread lift three days ago. The pain in the evening across my head was excruciating and I was vomiting all the next day. This is now day three and i still have extreme tenderness across my head and especially where the anchoring points are. I believe the threads used are silhouette soft threads. Is this normal and do you think it will settle. Even any eye movement at the moment is VERY tender. My surgeon was NOT helpful in any way. Thank you so much, Carol
Hi Carol,
Sorry to hear about your problem. But it is important for you to go back to your doctor quickly and let him know your problems. Otherwise, please go straight to another doctor to do an assessment.
Hello. Let me ask you a TECHNICAL question, if you can answer me … I’ve read a lot about the cares in after-procedure of Silhouette, which I consider to be extremely important for the final result, I say this only wrapped up by what I read, a series of facial movements that you can seriously avoid.
But there you are. The cares in after-procedure is so severe, some doctors even forbid chewing gum, some extend the care for a month … And, in contradiction, I know a person who have put the wires and, less than an hour later, she had a strong punch on her cheek (a baby children), and, worried, she immediately sent pictures to her doctor, and this one, without any personal examination, said that she thought everything was fine. And that was all. It’s a contradiction! Less than 1 hour later!
If we should avoid facial massages for a month, we should not even chew food everyday.
I ask:
Can you know what the really fixing power of Silhouette the instant it is put and over the days ? What kind of facial or body movement are REALLY able to pull the thread out of place? OR THESE AFTER-PROCEDURE RECOMMENDATIONS ARE JUST ESPECULATIONS?
I’m self-taught. If you, for some reason, can not answer me, can you send me or indicate any study material on this subject? (That’s not ok for me, imediatelly after put Silhouette, get a punch on your cheek if you not even may sleep with your cheek on a pillow…)
Hope for an answer. Thank you very much.
Hi Andy – please check your inbox.
I had a full face and neck PDO lift 5 weeks ago and still have pains either side of my head where the entry point would have been. Had 3 courses of antibiotics but still this pain. I have sleepless nights because if I roll onto my side i get very sharp shooting pains in my head. Please help, any suggestions as to why this would happen. I would have these taken out right now because of the pain it is causing me. I have of course been to the dr who performed this lift several times and he said this is normal. from what i read i disagree that there would be this much discomfort after 5 week
Hi Lainey – Sorry to hear about your discomfort and experience with thread lift treatment. Please go back to your doctor to have it checked. It is rather unusual that such side effects still persist after so many weeks.
Lainey, I had PDO lift on 7/5/2018 and i felt headache (at the temporal area太阳穴) most of the time. The painkiller was useless. But after 1 month and a half (45 days) it was subsided.
Do you still have these pains? Im going thru something like tjis.
Mine keeps makicking cracking sounds and feeling like they pull away on my left cheek is that normal the first week ??:/
Thank you for all this great information, Dr.
Is there a doctor you would recommend in Los Angeles? Thank you
Hi Cami – I am afraid I don’t know anyone well to recommend you. Try to look for reviews online!
Hi Dr Siew, is there any non-invasive procedure on droopy eyelip – ie the space between the eyebrow and eye sagging due to aging? Didn’t see that thread lift can help in such condition…
Thanks.
Hi Gloria – Please check your inbox for reply.
Hello are you able to email me some before and after pictures of the 20 point Korean threadlift you offer. I am travelling from Australia and am very interested in seeing your results before making a booking with you pls. Thanks
Hi Bee – Thanks for your message. I am not able to disclose or send any information. However, I am happy to show you some photos when you come in for a consult. If you like to arrange for a consult, please email enquiry@radium-aesthetics.com.
helllo dr… 2days ago I had my nose thread..my thread can be seen at tip of my nose.. how to solve this? total 3 thread was use.. 2 thread can be seen
Hi Shana – Sorry to hear that. Please go back to your doctor and discuss with you can do to address the problem.
same goes to me but what if i go back to my previous doctor and all he say was to wait till the thread dissolve? im also experiencing the same thing i got 1 of my nose threads taken off but still have 1 more thread left in my nose but it is visible like a small black dot on my nose and theres a scar on my nose due to previous abstraction and fillers pour out. hope to hear from your reply.
I’m on the same boat right now. I can feel and see the pdo thread on the tip of my nose, despite undergoing thread removal. I think it’s another thread about to come out again. It feels depressing as my tip looks badly bruised. How did you resolved yours? I hope you can answer my question.
hi Dr Siew
i had 2 threads on each side of my face few days ago and I realised that I need some more to lift the lateral cheeks, so how long Im allowed to put the new threads .
thank you
Hi Nagham – You should go back to your doctor to ask for his advice on whether he is willing to add more threads to give you the result you want to achieve. Good luck!
Hi Dr.Siew, I’m interested in both nose and sagging jowls thread lift. I’m from Canada and will be in Singapore for only a week. My main concern is that my blood capillaries breaks easily, bruised easily and my skin is very thin. Hence, am I a good candidate for thread lift? FYI, I’ve had fillers on my cheeks via a cannula with no bruising but bruised for a week when fillers were done on the bridge of my nose. Thanks
Hi Yuki – Please check your inbox.
Hello
If I do the thread for my neck ! When can I go back swimming and tanning , ( am living in very hot weather country )
Thank you
Hi Selene – Please check your inbox.
Hi dr
How long does it take to wound the warp(scabbard) around the threads ?
How to reduce the weight of the skin on the threads in this time?(For a better result)
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Hi I have had Pdo threads for over month now and I am on holiday . I have avoided excercise and alcohol but can I have alcohol and start running now ?
Thanks
Hi Andrea – thanks for your message. It is best to get in touch with your doctor and seek his advice as he will be in the best position to let you know if you are suitable to undertake the said activities after the treatment.
Hi i hv taken filler under eye one year ago and botox for crow feet after some time when i smiling ..one dimple shows on my cheek and i went to another doctor ..she dissolve the filler but now my skin has been black on dissolving area and hollowness pls suggest how it will better and how can i fill hollowness under eye
Hi Sarika – Thanks for leaving a message. I am unable to advise without seeing you in person. If you like to make an appointment for consult, let me know.
Hi! Is it possible to use an expired facelift thread?
Hi Red – Your doctor should not be using an expired facelift thread.
Hi Dr Siew is it ok to go for Revlite laser 2 weeks after a nose threadlift?
Hi May – It is best for you to see a doctor to get an accurate advice on this.
Hi! I have a question rather than a comment. Few years ago i had a thread lift neck n jowls however since it has been years my neck is uneven. Are you able to use the newer threads and do another jowl neck lift to correct this issue? I am 72 years old so i am concerned about a lift and whether the threads would still be beneficial.
Hi Brigitte – Please check your inbox for reply.
Hello. I noticed fillers seem to be a more popular choice when it comes to tear trough treatment. But from what I read online and here, both methods sound just as good to me. Just wondering between the two methods, which one will you recommend and which one has got a more lasting effect? I don’t think my tear troughs are deep, but they still do make me look tired all the time..
Hi Will – Please check your email for reply.
Hi Dr Siew, I’m keen to know the answer to this question as well.
How soon one can do ultherapy after novo threadlift?
Hi Tas – Please check your email for reply.
hi Dr Siew. just got my nose thread. it seems that the size of thread they use is longer. i can feel it in the tip of my nose. its still painful. i think anytime the thread will just come out in my nose. is there a way to cut or remove the thread? thanks
Hi Krizzy – Sorry to hear that. You might want to go back to your doctor to let him take a look at your nose. He should be able to address your concern.
I had PDO euro threads and the one the left side of the face broke a month later and left a big fold of skin by my mouth. Will it still dissolve as it looks like a piece of hanging skin. Dr does not want to remove as it had been 2 months since they were placed. Any suggestions to quickly dissolve and will it still dissolve if migrated downwards. Thanks
Hi – sorry to hear about the unfortunate incident. It will dissolve but it will take a few months for it to be resorbed by the body. Please feel free to see a doctor to get some advice.
Hi Dr siew. I’m interested in the facial thread lift. Which are the area that thread lift can be Perform? How much is the cost and how many session is needed? What is the difference between thread lift, ultherapy and Rf? Which treatment can last longer?
Hi Tomoya – Please check your email for reply.
Hello. I am considering PDO thread lift and want to know if I am a good candidate. I am 32 years old and have a naturally chubby face and double chin. Weight loss has led to sagging in face and neck. I’ve visited several cosmetic surgeons and almost all of them suggested a face lift and not a thread lift. Is that because of personal preference or could it be that I am truly not a candidate for thread lift? How is this determination made?
Hi Neha – Please check your email for reply.
Thank you for the very clear and supportive education on the many different aspects of this procedure.
It is apparent you are passionate about your work and genuinely care about creating a wonderful experience for everyone.
Warmest Regards,
from the USA
Hi Dr!
I had thread lift on 1/15/2019. 4 days later I cannot open my mouth wide, and have sharp needle like pain in the right side of my cheek. Where the thread was anchored… this procedure was very painful for me, and I too have a very high pain threshold. I am concerned…but afraid to go back to the dr for fear of more pain🥺
Shelly – Please go back for a follow up with your doctor if the pain does not subside.
Hi doctor, I’ve had meso threads inserted on my cheeks over 3 months ago but I still have quite large bumps on the both sides of the cheeks (the area close to lips where the threads start), symmetrical on both sides. I showed it to the doctor and she said that it happened due to bad lymph flow in that area and injected some homeopathic medicine. However, after 2 weeks post injections, I still don’t see any positive dynamics and she invites me to repeat homeopathic medicine injections. Does it all sound familiar to you, can there really be bumps on my cheeks caused by insufficient lymph flow?
Hi Ema – Sorry to hear about that. I am not able to advise without have a face-to-face consult with you. In any case, please go to your doctor to discuss your concern with her. If you are not comfortable, you should seek a second opinion. All the best.
Hi Dr Siew, is there a way to resolve a dimple/dent on the cheeks after threadlift ?
Hi Reb – Sorry to hear that. Yes, you probably can. Suggest you go back to your doctor to get him to address the issue.
Hello dr. Siew
Thankyou for your article. I want to ask for my patient. How to manage prolonged skin dimpling after 3 weeks threadlift with PDO suture?
Wow, i was really interested in getting this procedure done but I dont see many if any good comments on it. I am feeling very disheartened by how much this has affected some people.
I was very very interested in every question you were asked you told most people to read their inbox and now I dont get to see any of the answers. 🙁
Hi Kiera – Thanks for your interest. Many people have asked questions relating to their personal experiences and pricing. I have tailored my answers accordingly. If you are keen to ask any specific questions, I am more than happy to answer them. Let me know!
Hi Dr Siew. What do you think about matrix lifting using PCL?
Hi Linda – Please check your email for reply.
Hi Doc,
I have done filler and threadlift on thr area under my eye but it didnt help with my tear through. I have deep set eyes and it seems like there isnt a doc who is good at this. Will you be able to do such treatment? What are the risk involved?
Hi Theresa – Please check your email inbox for reply.
Hello Dr. Siew,
I had PDO threads in Dec. 2018. Just recently, I noticed approximately a 0.5 inch canula with a small round edge on each side (near my right temple). I can pinch it and move it around. It is not painful. Is this expected after pdo threads? Or does it seem like something was left behind? I was told it will dissolve, but the material feels too hard. Thank you.
Hi Shaila – Sorry to hear that there seems to be some concerns. Please go back to your doctor to have it checked.
Dr. Siew, i had smooth pdo threads put in under my eyes to help with dark circle and to fill the area up a little bit. Since the second day after the procedure, i can see a raised spot the size of a mosquito bite under the right eye, when touched it felt like the tip of a thread. I’m going to see my doctor, but afraid he would tell me to wait it out. I wonder of there’s anything i may try asking him to do for me for this problem. Is there anything that can accelerate the dissolution of that particular tip of thread?
Hi Vivian – It is best for you to go back to your doctor to have it checked. If the thread is protruding, he may either make some adjustments or remove it. Please go and have it assessed by your doctor.
Can Dr. Siew recommend someone in the LA, California area?
thanks!
Apologies! I don’t know anyone there to recommend a doctor who can perform this treatment.
Do you provide training??
Do u advice fillers on a slight dent on one side of my cheek 11 days after threadlift?
Lauren – If the dent is caused by the thread lift, you should go back to your doctor to fix it.
I had pdo 7days ago to contour my nasal folds and the pain I am feeling is awful! My left side the dr took out the thread and replaced it with another one during one session. Now my left side I am feeling some numbness feels hard I can’t telk if that’s bruising or granuloma. I can’t form proper sentences, pout to kiss my kids or husband, chew, etc. I went to one of the best dr in la and I can’t stop crying due to my results being soo poor. I don’t know what to do, it’s been a week! My right side subsided but still balls of my cheek bones look like I had lumpy filler injected? How long does it take the body to absorb? She put thicker threads in.
Hi Lily, sorry to hear about your experience. Threads can take anywhere from 6 months to 18 months to resorb by the body. If it still troubles you, please seek medical help. All the best.
Can the threads be used for platysmal bands?
Hi Michele – Sorry for the late reply. It may not work so well for platysmas bands.
Hi Dr Siew,
I did PDO lifting under eye 2 years ago, I did twice before, the result was good, however, one month after the 3rd time, my right eye started to show puffiness, looks very much like eye bag, I don’t have any eye bags before, I went back to see my doctor many times, he couldn’t figure out why and tried several treatments but the eye bag still not go away. I went to see many different doctors afterwards, even the plastic surgeon specialize in eye bag surgery, they couldn’t find why and the plastic surgeon told me he doubt this might due to lymphatic drainage issue. After 2 years, I still have eye bag on my right side, my right eye and left eye look different, right side with eye bag look more tired and much older than left side. I don’t know if this eye bag (puffiness) was scar tissue underneath the lower eyelid was caused improper threading injection? Is there a way to solve this eye bag(puffiness) is it possible to do another PDO lifting to solve this issue? Can this eye bag (potential scar tissue) be dissolved by any injection?
Thanks
Hi GG – Please check your email for our reply.
Hi Dr Siew, I didn’t find email from you, could you please resend to me? Thanks
Hi Dr Siew
I want to have my eyebrows lifted by threads but cant see to find any info anywhere on the internet as to how much eyebrows can be lifted – are the results noticeable or is it like a 1mm difference? Also is it possible to have eyebrows microbladed once I have had the threads done? Thanks Dr Siew!
Hi Candy,
Thread lift treatment is one of the ways to address droopy skin. As the eye areas are particularly sensitive, threads may or may not be the best option. There are several other non-surgical skin lifting technologies you can consider as well, such as Ultherapy, Thermage.
As I have not seen you in person, I am not able to comment further on the most suitable treatment for you.
Do visit a doctor to have your skin assessed and then discuss a suitable treatment plan for you. Good luck!
I have had bells palsy and sculptra injections in cheeks I am getting mint threadlift free for Dr. to use my pictures, is Dr. learning on me and should I get it if I’ve had bell s palsy?
Hi Doc,
Thinking of doing a PDO face lift. Is this process reversible if complication arises after the procedures.
Hi Hong,
When the threads are securely in place, it will be a challenge to remove them. I am not sure what complications you are referring to but there will be minimal complications if this is done by a very experienced doctor. Complications, if any, can be addressed without the need to remove the threads.
Hi Dr Siew, is it possible to get a surgical nose job after I’ve gotten a nose threadlift+fillers? And are there any complications involved? It has been slightly over a year since I last did my thread lift.
Thanks!
Hi Pat – Please check your inbox for reply.
Hi Dr Siew,
I had a neck lift with the PDO threads 5 days ago. I was told there was no down time and that I mat have bruising. My neck looks like I swallowed some fishing lures and is definitely nothing I can hide. I have been in touch with the NP that did the procedure. Now they tell me the pointy things on my neck are normal and to put on a thin scarf for a while. I need your thoughts. I already have their thoughts. Is there anything I can do to help them lay down, smooth out or dissolve faster? I work in television and film, so I need to get rid of this new undesired look. People are staring at me at work and in public.
Hi GG – Sorry to hear about the experience. Once the threads are placed inside, it is very difficult to remove them. You can try to get them removed if the threads are exposed. Alternatively, you have to wait for the threads to subside. It will take some time.
Thank you for your honest answer. It will have been 2 wks from the procedure in one more day and there is very little change and I can still see the sharp threads through my skin. No dissolving. Are you telling me that this is most likely due to technique? The NP says it’s because the skin is so skin. I can send photos.
Hi Gabrielle – If it is causing a lot of discomfort, you should go back to your doctor to determine how to resolve that.
Hi,
I had PDO threadlift on 7/15/2019 for nasolabial folds and jaws. I feel I need a few more, can I go back and get them?
Hi Sonia – Feel free to seek a consult with the doctor and get his opinion on that.
Hi Dr Siew,
I have some questions about PDO threads and would be thrilled if you could answer them! On this post you say that PDO threads dissolve after 6-9 months however many websites I’ve read say they dissolve within 3-6 months. So which is the correct answer? And is the dissolving time from personal experience with your clients?
Thanks for reading!
Hi Elle – There are many factors that determine how long the threads take to dissolve in your body such as types of thread used, size of the threads, and where they are placed. It can take between 3 and 9 months to dissolve.
Hi Dr. Siew, I had PDO thread lift (Nova threads) 16 days ago. I have one thread that protrudes when I smile. It looks like a cyst is popping out of my check bone. I was told this will resolve on its own within the 1st thirty days. What is your experience or knowledge about the prognosis of a protruding thread? It goes away within 30 days or needs to be removed?
Best,
From USA
Hi Nikki – If it doesn’t resolve in a few days, you should go back to your doctor to get it removed.
Hi! I am interested in a nose threadlift. I do only want to do a nose tip lift? Is it possible?
Hi Lim – Please check your email for reply.
Hi Dr. Siew,
I have been searching the internet trying to understand if the sudden tingling and numbing under my feet and in my fingers is related to my thread lift a few months ago. I am also experiencing what feels like a tightness in my calves. I do not have any health conditions and had bloodwork done to make sure that I had not developed any conditions. Is it possible to incur nerve damage in these areas from thread lifting? Thank you in advance sir for your thoughts.
Hi Sherell – Sorry to hear about the issues you are currently facing. Although it may seem unlikely that these sensations are related to the thread lift you did a few months ago, it is best you seek advice from a doctor as soon as you can to get it checked. All the best.
How can I contact you to make an appointment?
Hi Griselda, thank you for your enquiry. You can make an appointment to see me by calling my clinic at +65 6837-0507. Alternatively, you can email at enquiry@radium-aesthetics.com.
Hi Dr. Siew,
I’ve read on some sites that taking anti-inflammatories before and after thread lifting can affect the growth of collagen. Have you heard this? I had a thread lift about 10 days ago. I take many health supplements that have varying degrees of anti-inflammatory effects, such as lion’s mane, theracurmin, rhodiola, fish oil, and others. Am I harming the collagen growth stimulated by the threads? If so, how long do I need to wait to start taking these supplements again? Or is the effect on the collagen growth not enough to worry about? I don’t want to harm the collagen growth! Thank you!
Hi Dr Siew,
Good evening to you. I had a PDO thread lift about a month ago on my cheek area. But the thread on my cheek broken and “travel” to my lower chin. I can’t go back to see the doctor because I did this procedure in Asia and now I am back to NY. Do you any suggestions to prevent the moving of the thread or way to dissolve the thread even faster than 3-9 months. Thank you
Hi Karen, unfortunately there is no way to make it dissolve faster. If it bothers you, you might want to go to a doctor to check if the thread is indeed displaced. And if so, whether he can help to remove it.
After 1 week pdo thread lifting is it OK to undergo laser diode hair removal for upper lip?will the laser dissolve the pdo thread immediately?
Hi Marie, no. Laser hair removal will not have any effect on the thread lift result. Just make sure you don’t massage the face with too much force after the treatment.
How about the c02 fractional laser coherent machine will it dissolve the thread? thank you so much
How about the c02 fractional laser coherent machine will it dissolve the thread? thank you so much
Dear Dr Siew,
Thanks so much for your great work and advice.
I had a lift with silhouette threads 5 weeks ago. at one exit point above my lip, there is a hard white thing? thread point or scar tissue. It has not healed and is swollen and secretes serous fluid (no pus).
It is tender to touch. The surgeon was dismissive and told me to go on another course of antibiotics.
My concerns are:
after 5 weeks wont it be tricky to cut the tip of the thread off esp with so much swelling
and will this develop scar tissue/ granuloma which will be permanently disfiguring?
any advice very appreciated thank!
Hi Sash, please see a doctor to have it checked. If the thread is protruding, you should remove it quickly.
Hello, I had a pdo thread lift 9 days ago, and now have sharp nerve pain in one ear (much higher up the ear than the entry point of the thread…) In my follow up the doctor (who is very experienced and well reputed in this procedure) didn’t seem concerned, said it would resolve itself. But I am reading in some places that nerve damage can be permanent… And having so much pain that sleeping is a problem. What is your experience of this please, and is there anything I can do except “wait”, as the doctor is suggesting? Thank you.
Hi DR,
You should go back to the doctor to have it checked if the pain is making you uncomfortable. Nerve damage can occur but your doctor may also be correct. I am not able to advise you except to ask you to go back to the doctor if you are not getting any better.
Hi! I got the thread lift done about a week ago and im experiencing the same pain my ears. Did yours end up going away?
Can anyone who’s had this procedure say anything good about their thread lifts.
I had mine about 10 days ago, seems okay, however one side of my face looks better than the other, it feels like the threads are placed differently on either side.
Also I have a thread sticking out slightly at the top of my cheek, I’m worried that this will take so long to reabsord.
Wish I’d done more research before going ahead with it.
Hi Doc
I had PDO thread lift 8 months ago and notice that my cheeks have been much puffier. Is it fibrosis and how can I treat it. The normalcoutour of my face has changed in the process, not for the better.
Hi possum – I am not able to tell what the issue is. However, 8 months is a little long for your face to remain puffy. Please go back to your doctor to see what can be done to resolve the matter.
Hi Dr siew
I do not find much doctor doing threading on under the eye and most of them would advise me to take a filler. But we all know it won’t last very long. I notice from the article here you do under eye threading. May I know how much it cost ?
Hi Choi Yee – the treatment is often not done on the eyes per se. Depending on what the issue is, there are several other options such as fillers and lasers.
Are you in the states Dr? I would love for you to do my thread lift.
Hi Simone – I’m sorry but unfortunately I am not based in the US.
Hello, I had a co2 laser treatment about 1.5months after a threadlift. Is it too soon?
Hi HZ,
Thank you for your enquiry and sorry for the late reply.
The timeline seems ok. As long as you have fully recovered from the thread lift, it should be ok to undergo CO2 treatment.
Hi doctor.. I did threadlift 1 and half month ago.. I did injection remove filler, vitamin and thread.. After one month my jaw, cheek still puffy.. Dr scan no more collagen and filler at my face.. Is it possible thread can be remove??
Hi Noni,
Thanks for your enquiry.
From what I understand, you did thread lift treatment about 2 months ago. You then dissolved fillers that were previously in your face.
Now you are asking if the threads can be removed.
When threads are already placed in the face with no extrusion, it will be almost impossible to remove them.
But if it troubles you, please seek help from your doctor to determine what you can do to address your concerns.
Hello Doctor,
I had a PDO procedure done on my sagging jowls last July 9. On the left side of my face I had 3 PDO threads inserted. It looks like it needs more coz I can see that I look like I still have hanging jowls (more like eating candy). On the other side of my face, I only had 1 thread inserted. However, I have developed 2 small bumps or lumps that I can feel on that side of my face. I have taken pain meds and for bruising. Doctor said the bumps will disappear eventually. It has been days and it seems that it is getting harder. I am so scared of the appearance of my face. is there anything that can be done at this point?
Hi Antoniette – thanks for your question. The bumps and lumps may be normal. However, you should monitor closely. If you see any protrusion of thread, you need to go back to your doctor to get it fixed or else it may be infected. All the best!
Hallo Dr Siew
My question is how long approximately needs END OF THE THREAD ( the one hanging out after procedure) to go under the skin and skin to become smooth and tight
Best regards
Hi Anastazija, thanks for your enquiry. There should not be any thread that hangs out after the procedure. Please go back to your doctor if the threads have extruded.
Dr. Siew,
Great article. I’m still debating on having my under chin area done. In this scenario, if the results only last up to 18 mos, and if I decide not to go back for a second round, what will happen to my skin after the threads dissolve and collagen is no longer being produced. Will the skin just fall? Thank you.
Hi Kelly – No, your skin will not just fall. The collagen stimulated will continue to hold and firm the skin. In fact, it will look better than if you didn’t go for the treatment at all.
Hi doc Siew,
When nose threadlift says autoimmune disease is a contraindication, does this mean that patients with thyroid disease will not be suitable for threadlift procedures?
Hi Amsy, thank you for writing in. It is best to avoid the treatment for people with autoimmune diseases.
Dr Siew,
Thank you for such an information article. Can you tell me if it’s normal to hear popping/cracking sounds after one week of having cog pdos inserted into cheeks for jowl lift? I only hear them when I’m massaging my face during cleansing and wasn’t quite sure if I’m rubbing to hard or if it’s expected. I didn’t have any bruising and there is very mild soreness remaining.
Hi Jessica – You probably should have a follow-up with your doctor in a week or so. Please talk to him about it. It should go away after some time.
Hi Dr Siew, it has been almost 4 years since you wrote this article. Do you still thinks the same about PCL threads? Thank you
Hi Myn – Yes, the facts are still relevant. Before you embark on any treatment, do seek advise from a doctor so that he/she will be in a better position to advise you on what suits you best.
Good Morning,
I had a brow lift done, and they added 2 anchor threads from the inception points on my forehead to the back of my head, maybe 6″ it has been 2 1/2 weeks and they still burn sporadicly, like the entire thread. It only last about 20 seconds but enough to wake me up and keep me up and it will continue throughout the night. Is this normal, will it stop?
Hi Joan – Give it some time. It should resolve in a few weeks.
It’s nice to know how long a PDO threading treatment could last. I’d like to know more about that because I’m planning to start working on improving my physical appearance. I think that will be necessary for my plan to start producing vlogs in the future.