PDO Threads

What are PDO Threads

PDO threads are a type of dissolvable material made from polydioxanone, which can help to tighten and lift the skin. (Think dissolvable sutures, much like the ones that surgeons use). PDO threads help to trigger the cells in our body, called the fibroblasts, which help to produce more collagen and elastin within the skin. This production of collagen and elastin is what helps us look more youthful. PDO threads originated from South Korea and have been used for approximately 30 years. The two types of PDO threads used at Coastal Goddess are mono threads and cog threads. 

Mono threads are great for those who are wanting more collagen production, and for those who are also wanting to tighten their skin. Mono threads can be used all over the face, and are great for those areas with fine lines and wrinkles and creping skin, such as the under eyes and neck. Mono threads typically take around 3 months before you can start to see results, (due to the collagen production) and the results typically last around 6 to 12 months.

Cog threads are great for those who are wanting a little helping hand in the mid to lower face region, to help produce collagen, elastin and to lift the skin, which can reduce the appearance of jowls, nasolabial folds and marionettes. Cog threads can also be used to help give you a brow lift and contour the face.  Cog threads are designed with little barbs along the thread that help to lift the skin tissue, that can sag overtime as we age. Once in the skin, the cog threads can take around 6 months to dissolve, however the actual longevity of the results from cog threads can last anywhere from 12- 24 months.

Disclaimer: PDO cog threads are by no means an alternative for a surgical facelift and are not suitable for everyone.

Where can it be used?

What is involved in the treatment?

After a discussion of your needs and a full skin and facial assessment performed by your Coastal Goddess practitioner, a treatment plan will be tailored to meet your needs. PDO threads are not suitable for everyone, and each treatment is individualised.  Our coastal Goddess practitioner will explore your goals and expectations. Once a suitable treatment plan is developed, pre-treatment photos will be taken and consent obtained.

A combination of topical and subcutaneous local anaesthetic will be applied, depending on the type of thread procedure. For both types of threads, a small incision is made in the skin for a cannula containing the threads to be inserted. Varying number of threads are inserted depending on the treatment type and the desired outcome.

Mono thread results are not evident immediately and can take up to 3 months to take full effect. Longevity of mono threads is up to 12 months. Lifting (cog) threads do give immediate results, and can last up to 24 months.

Potential Risks & Contra-indications

With any medical procedure there are always risks and contra-indications. These will be discussed with your practitioner prior to treatment. Common side effects include:

After care

  •  Infection

  • The end of the thread becoming visible

  • Tingling sensation in the treated area

  • Haematoma

  • Skin necrosis

  • Unilateral paraesthesia

  • Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Patients with active skin infection or inflammation

  • Patient with blood clotting disorders

  • Patients who tend to form keloid scaring

  • Patients with diabetes who have dermal necrosis

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