Exploring PDO Thread Lifts: Are They Worth It?

What Are PDO Thread Lifts?

Before going into it, we need to understand that whether any procedure is “worth it” is subjective and will differ from person to person. We need to assess which aspects of the treatment you prioritize in order to make a clear judgment on the value.

Now, what are thread lifts? They’re a minimally invasive treatment designed to lift and tighten sagging skin tissue by using threads made of polydioxanone, lifting the skin from underneath, as well as inducing collagen production. During the procedure, biodegradable sutures are inserted into the subcutaneous layer of the skin using needles or cannulas. These threads attach to the skin tissue and are then pulled back to lift and smooth the face. There’s an added benefit of collagen stimulation; the threads dissolve over time and the polydioxanone leaves behind new collagen to promote elasticity in the skin.

The Benefits of Thread Lifts

There are plenty of benefits to face threading, and as you go through them, we suggest you list which benefits you prioritize the most:

1. Minimal Downtime: Unlike traditional facelift surgery, which can require weeks of recovery, thread lifts typically involve only a few days of downtime. Patients can often return to their normal activities within a day or two, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

2. Immediate Results: The effects can be seen almost immediately. The initial lift can be quite impressive, and the results continue to improve over the following months as collagen production increases. Optimal results can be seen 2 weeks post procedure.

3. Natural-Looking Results: Because PDO threads work by encouraging natural body processes (like collagen synthesis), the results are more natural-looking compared to some surgical alternatives that can leave patients looking 'pulled' or tight. Keep in mind this is also based on the skill of your practitioner and the style of lift you choose.

4. Safety: The threads used are made from the same material as some medical sutures and are completely absorbable. In fact, the sutures have been used in medical and surgical applications for decades. The risk of scarring, severe bruising, or other serious complications is significantly lower than with surgical face lifts.

The Disadvantages of PDO Threads

1. Temporary Results: When it comes to disadvantages of PDO threads, the most common issue people have are the short-term results. While less invasive, they are not permanent. Typically, results last upwards to 10 months, depending on the practitioner’s skillset, as well as the individual's age, lifestyle, and skin condition.

2. Subtlety: For those seeking dramatic results, face threading may not suffice. The lift is more subtle compared to surgical facelifts.

3. Risk of Complications: Though lower than surgical risks, there are still potential complications like minor bruising, swelling, and in rare cases, infection or irritation from the threads.

How Much Do Thread Lifts Cost?

Now if we’re going to talk about whether a procedure is worth it, we need to factor in cost. PDO thread lifts generally range from $1500 to $4500. There are many things that go into this price, which we’ll go over below:

Charging by Procedure or Threads?

A major factor in the price of your treatment is whether your practitioner charges by the amount of threads used, or by the area of the face. In both situations, you’ll have a consultation where they’ll go over vectors and which threads will be used. When being charged per thread, the amount of threads used can be restricted by your budget. When charging by facial area, there is more flexibility in the amount of threads that can be used by the practitioner’s discretion. The price of charging by facial area is generally higher as the practitioner has free reign to sculpt based on your needs and wants, but can yield better results because of that flexibility.

Other Factors in Price



• Geographical Location: The cost of cosmetic procedures tends to be higher in metropolitan areas and lower in smaller towns due to varying overhead costs and demand. For example, a metropolitan area such as Los Angeles or New York would cost more than a smaller town.
• Type of Threads: There are different types of PDO threads (e.g. smooth or barbed), and some may cost more than others due to their specific uses and benefits.
• Practitioner's Expertise: More experienced practitioners or those with a high-profile clientele may charge more for their services. Especially with this procedure, provider skill is of the utmost importance. So it’s up to you to do your research on what kind of experience your practitioner has, and whether they’ve undergone extensive training to provide the best results for their patients.

Is It Worth It?

Whether a PDO thread lift is worth it largely depends on your goals, budget, and tolerance for risk. For those seeking a less invasive, lower-risk solution with minimal downtime, face threading offers a compelling option. However, keep in mind the disadvantages of a thread lift as if you are seeking dramatic, long-lasting results, or have significant sagging, traditional surgery might be more appropriate.

As with any cosmetic treatment, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified, experienced professional who can assess your specific needs and explain the potential outcomes and risks.