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Aging changes the structure of our face. Sagging skin, loss of firmness, and less-defined contours can make us look older than we feel.
While surgical facelifts are effective, not everyone is ready for that level of intervention. This is where a PDO Thread Lift becomes a smart option.
This cosmetic thread lift procedure uses dissolvable threads to lift and tighten sagging facial tissue without surgery. It also stimulates your body to produce more collagen, which improves skin firmness over time.
If you’re curious about how the treatment works and what happens afterward, here’s a clear look at what to expect.
How the PDO Thread Lift Works
The PDO thread lift involves inserting medical-grade threads made of polydioxanone (PDO) just under the skin. These threads create a subtle lifting effect immediately.
Over time, they stimulate natural collagen production, which continues to improve the skin’s firmness and elasticity even after the threads dissolve.
The threads are placed using a fine needle or cannula. Once positioned, they gently pull the skin upward.
This action addresses drooping or sagging areas such as the cheeks, jawline, jowls, and brows. The PDO thread lift procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It will depend on the number of threads and areas treated.
The PDO thread lift is FDA-cleared and widely used for those who want a non-surgical option to fight signs of aging. This collagen boosting treatment offers subtle, natural-looking results with minimal downtime.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
- Consultation: Your provider will evaluate your skin, facial structure, and goals. A plan will be customized based on your needs.
- Preparation: You may be advised to avoid certain substances. These may include alcohol and blood thinners. In some cases, you will need to refrain from taking some supplements like fish oil or vitamin E in the days leading up to the procedure to reduce bruising.
- Numbing: A local anesthetic can be applied to ensure you’re comfortable. Most people feel only mild pressure or tugging during the treatment.
- Thread Insertion: Using a fine cannula or needle, your provider inserts the PDO threads beneath the skin. Once placed, the threads are gently pulled to reposition the skin upward. The ends of the threads are then trimmed, and the insertion points are closed with sterile bandages.
- Recovery Time: The procedure requires little to no downtime. Most patients return to daily activities within 24-48 hours.
What to Expect After a PDO Thread Lift
You may notice results immediately, but the full effects build over several weeks as collagen production increases.
Common Short-Term Effects:
- Mild swelling or bruising
- Slight asymmetry (which typically resolves in a few days)
- Tightness or a “pulling” sensation that subsides within the first week
Post-Treatment Care:
- Avoid sleeping on your face for at least 5-7 days
- Refrain from intense exercise for about a week
- Minimize exaggerated facial movements
- Don’t schedule dental work or facial treatments for 2 weeks
Long-Term Results:
The skin gradually improves in texture, tone, and tightness as collagen builds. While not permanent, the effects can last 12-18 months. Treatments can be repeated to maintain your refreshed look.
PDO Thread Lift Before and After: What Results Look Like
Photos showing PDO thread lift before and after results can demonstrate the power of this treatment. Common visible improvements include:
- Better definition along the jawline
- Lifted cheeks and midface
- Reduced appearance of nasolabial folds
- Smoother neck and lower face skin
Though individual results vary, most patients experience noticeable improvements in both facial structure and skin quality.
PDO Thread Lift vs Other Anti-Aging Treatments
Fillers and Botox® are widely used to reduce wrinkles and restore volume. However, they don’t lift tissue. Botox® works by relaxing muscles, and fillers add volume, but neither addresses the root cause of sagging skin.
The Pdo thread lift for sagging skin is the only non-surgical treatment that truly repositions and lifts the tissue. For individuals who are not quite ready for surgery, this treatment offers a practical in-between solution.
Benefits of a PDO Thread Lift
Patients choose a PDO Thread Lift for its visible, yet subtle lifting effects and collagen-stimulating properties. Key benefits include:
- Immediate lifting of sagging skin in areas like the cheeks, jawline, brows, and neck
- Gradual collagen production for longer-lasting skin tightening
- Minimally invasive with no general anesthesia or deep incisions
- Short recovery time—many return to normal activities in 24-48 hours
- Lower cost than surgical alternatives
- Results that improve over time and can last 12–18 months
- Ability to repeat treatments every 1–2 years to maintain a youthful look
Who is a Good Candidate for a Thread Lift?
A PDO Thread Lift is ideal for men and women in their late 30s to early 60s who have mild to moderate skin laxity. It’s particularly useful for:
- Early signs of facial sagging
- Skin that has lost elasticity but doesn’t yet require a facelift
- Those looking for non-surgical facial rejuvenation with threads
It is not meant to replace a surgical facelift, but can delay the need for one.
Check out Step-by-Step Guide to Your PDO Thread Lift Appointment
Why Choose Afzal Clinics for Your PDO Thread Lift in Edina, MN
If you’re in the Minneapolis area and considering a PDO thread lift in Edina, MN, Afzal Clinics provides expert care in a supportive environment.
Many patients aren’t ready for a facelift, whether due to age, cost, or recovery time. A PDO Thread Lift at Afzal Clinics delivers visible improvement in facial structure without surgery.
A full surgical facelift typically lasts 7 to 10 years, but most surgeons recommend waiting until around age 60 to pursue one. In contrast, a cosmetic thread lift procedure can be performed much earlier and repeated every couple of years. It costs roughly 1/15th the price of a facelift.
Book Your Free PDO Thread Lift Consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the threads last?
PDO threads typically dissolve within 6 months, but their effects last much longer due to ongoing collagen stimulation.
Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients report mild discomfort. Local anesthesia is used to keep the experience comfortable.
Can I combine PDO threads with other treatments?
Yes. PDO threads can be paired with fillers, Botox®, and laser treatments for a comprehensive anti-aging strategy.
Is there a risk of visible threads?
When placed correctly by a skilled provider, threads are not visible under the skin. Choosing an experienced clinic matters.
