The World of Polydioxanone

What are PDO Threads?

PDO threads are made of a biodegradable synthetic polymer called polydioxanone. The sutures are inserted into the skin to create a lifting and tightening effect. This is a type of non surgical facelift procedure used to address sagging skin. Common treatment areas include the jawline, nasolabial folds, and neck. The procedure, begins with local anesthesia, involves inserting the suture through small incisions. They are then pulled to lift the skin, creating a rejuvenated appearance.

Cut Barbs vs. Molded Barbs

When it comes to barbed threads, it can be divided into two main categories based on its framework.

All lifting sutures have barbs for the purpose of gently gripping the underlying tissues when inserted into the skin. There are cut sutures that cut into the core of the suture to carve out the barbs. This cut barb design compromises the integral core, making it degrade at a faster rate than if it wasn’t cut, so results may not last as intended. It lowers the tensile strength needed for a powerful lift and makes it more susceptible to breakage if it can’t withstand the weight of the tissue it’s holding up.

In contrast, molded barb sutures have barbs that are created separately, which are then molded onto the core of the suture. This ensures the integrity of the suture is maintained, so there is no compromise to its tensile strength and degradation rate. Rather than being carved from the suture itself, the barbs are manufactured separately, which offers more control over the shape of the barbs. They are then molded onto the thread’s surface in a pattern that can achieve an optimal lifting effect.

The choice between cut barbs and molded barbs depends on the brand your provider uses. While cut barbs were the first type of threads to be popularized in the market, innovations to this technology have led to the creation of the more robust molded barb.

Different Types of Sutures: Bi-Directional, Multi-Directional, & Smooth

There are several types of PDO threads, each serving different purposes in facial rejuvenation. Let's explore the differences between bi-directional, multi-directional, and smooth types in detail:

Bi-Directional: This is the most traditional type on the market, known for having barbs along their length that are oriented in opposite directions. When they are inserted under the skin, one set of barbs catch onto the tissue to achieve the classic lifting effect, while the other set of opposite facing barbs anchor onto the tissue to hold the positioned tissue in place. Bi-directional sutures are ideal for areas where a strong lift is required, such as the jowls or neck. They provide immediate lifting and tightening results by repositioning sagging skin.

Multi-Directional: In this design, the barbs alternate directions throughout the whole thread to secure onto the tissue and minimize its movement. You can think of it as a double-sided sticky tape, holding the tissue in place from all sides. This puts less tension on the bi-directional thread doing the heavy lifting, which in turn helps extend the longevity of the lifting results. It can also be laid over the bi-directional thread to lock it into place and prevent it from disengaging. They are commonly used as a supplement to bi-directional ones, as their main purpose is to secure the tissue rather than lift it.

Smooth: Like its name, smooth threads are sutures that do not have barbs. The main purpose of bi-directional and multi-directional barbed threads is to lift or secure tissue, whereas smooth threads is to stimulate collagen production in the skin. Once inserted under the skin, the suture begins to dissolve, which stimulates the body to produce collagen. This process of collagen synthesis can build volume and tighten the skin as it contracts the surrounding tissue to help improve skin texture, elasticity, and overall firmness. They are often used in areas where skin rejuvenation and improved texture are the primary goal instead of lifting, such as the under-eye area, forehead, and under chin. 

Bi-directional, multi-directional, and smooth sutures can be used in many different areas of the face. Bi-directional provides a strong lifting effect, multi-directional secure the tissue to help extend results, and smooth threads stimulate collagen production for improved volume and firmness. The selection of the appropriate type is typically made after a thorough assessment by a trained and experienced practitioner, considering the patient's unique facial anatomy and desired outcomes. 

Where Can I Buy PDO Threads?

There are many brands available in the market, and it is important to do your research before making your purchase. PDO threads are considered a Class II medical device by the FDA and must receive clearance in order to be legally sold in the US. 

MINT™ is the first and only PDO thread brand to obtain three FDA clearances for skin approximation, nasolabial fold depth reduction, and facial suspension surgery. MINT™ PDO threads are known to have barbs that are press molded in a 360-degree helical pattern onto the suture to powerfully anchor and lift tissue for instant results. With bi-directional, multi-directional, and smooth threads, their diverse product portfolio offers a wide range of designs that make it easy to customize vectors according to each patient's unique anatomy and lifting needs.

If you are a licensed medical practitioner in the US, you can visit the MINT™ eStore to buy PDO threads today. If you need further information, we can connect you with a sales representative after you fill out a contact form.