Cheek Volumization with PDO Thread Lift

Why Do I Have Sunken Cheeks?

As people age, their cheeks can appear sunken due to several factors. One main reason is the reduced production of collagen and elastin. This leads to sagging and a loss of fullness in the cheeks. The fat pads beneath the cheeks may also diminish, creating hollow or sunken areas.

Lifestyle choices can further contribute to sunken cheeks. Factors like prolonged sun exposure, smoking, and a poor diet can speed up the aging process. UV rays from the sun can harm the skin, while smoking narrows blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to the skin. Additionally, a lack of essential nutrients and hydration can result in a dull complexion and accentuate facial hollows.

Genetics and medical conditions also play a role. Some people may inherit a tendency for facial volume loss or have conditions that affect fat distribution and skin elasticity. Certain medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, may also accelerate facial aging and contribute to pronounced volume loss.

Non Surgical Facelift Alternative

A PDO thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses polydioxanone (PDO) threads to lift and tighten sagging skin tissues. These threads are absorbable sutures commonly used in various medical practices, including cardiovascular surgery. When used for cosmetic purposes, face threading not only gives a great lifting effect, but can also help tighten and volumize by promoting collagen stimulation. The polydioxanone material creates a collagen boost to your skin, hence why some call them “collagen threads.”

When it comes to cheek volumization, PDO threads can be inserted beneath the skin to elevate, lift, and contour the cheeks, restoring lost volume and enhancing facial definition. They act as a scaffold, lifting the sagging skin and tissues upwards, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

Advantages of a Thread Lift:

Minimally Invasive: PDO thread lifts are less invasive than surgical procedures, involving minimal downtime and fewer risks.

Quick Recovery: Patients can generally resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure, with minimal downtime.

Stimulates Collagen Production: PDO threads stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin texture and elasticity over time.

Temporary (an advantage and disadvantage to thread lifts): PDO threads provide temporary results, allowing for adjustments or changes in the future.



Cost-Effective: Generally, a non surgical facelift is more cost-effective than surgical procedures, making them accessible to a broader range of patients.

Disadvantages of a Thread Lift:

Temporary (an advantage and disadvantage to thread lifts): The results of PDO thread lifts are temporary and may require repeat treatments to maintain the desired volume and lift.



Less Dramatic Results: Compared to surgical procedures, PDO thread lifts may offer less dramatic results, particularly for patients with significant volume loss or structural changes.

Possible Side Effects: While there is a lower risk of side effects due to its minimally invasive nature, a nonsurgical facelift can still lead to side effects such as bruising, swelling, and infection if not performed correctly.

Skill-Dependent: The success of a non surgical facelift largely depends on the skill and experience of the practitioner, as improper placement can lead to asymmetry or other undesirable outcomes.

Surgical Cheek Lift

Surgical cheek volumization is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance or restore volume to the cheeks, commonly addressing signs of aging like sagging or sunken appearance. During a cheek lift procedure, your plastic surgeon adjusts the fat pads in your cheeks and tightens the surrounding skin. Prior to the surgery, you'll receive either general anesthesia, to keep you unconscious throughout or conscious sedation, which allows you to remain awake but relaxed. Once sedated, the surgeon makes an incision, inserts an endoscopic camera for visibility, and employs specialized instruments to lift and reposition the fat pads. These pads are then secured in place using internal, permanent sutures.

Advantages of surgery:

Long-lasting Results: Surgical procedures like cheek implants or fat grafting can provide permanent results that typically lasts for 8-10 years..

More Control: Surgeons have control and flexibility to adjust the volume and shape of the cheeks, allowing for customization based on individual needs.

Comprehensive Results: Surgical procedures can address more severe volume loss and structural changes to the cheeks.

One-time Procedure: In most cases, surgical cheek volumization is a one-time procedure, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.

Disadvantages of surgery:

Invasive: Surgical procedures involve incisions, which carry risks such as infection, scarring, and anesthesia-related complications.

Downtime: Recovery from surgical procedures typically requires downtime, during which patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

Risk: Because of the invasive nature, there is a higher chance of complications.

Cost: Surgical procedures tend to be more expensive than nonsurgical options.

Irreversibility: While some surgical procedures are reversible, others may lead to permanent changes that cannot be easily undone.

Whether you're exploring surgical cheek volumization or considering a PDO thread lift, making an informed choice is essential to safely achieve your aesthetic preferences. The shape and volume of your cheeks are significant aspects of your facial appearance, underscoring the importance of selecting a fitting treatment. If you're contemplating face threading or alternative cheek volumization methods, you should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or experienced aesthetic practitioner. Such a consultation offers insights to guide your decision, aligning with your specific needs. With expert advice and available solutions, enhancing your cheek appearance becomes achievable. Begin your journey confidently, taking steps to refresh your look today.