Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are a non-surgical cosmetic procedure designed to lift, tighten, and rejuvenate sagging skin. The treatment involves inserting fine, absorbable sutures beneath the skin to provide an immediate physical lift and contouring effect. As a minimally invasive technique, PDO threads have gained popularity as an alternative to a facelift. A common concern is whether this process results in the formation of permanent, visible scar tissue, making it important to understand the body’s specific biological reaction to the threads.
How Polydioxanone Threads Work
Polydioxanone threads are made from a synthetic polymer used safely in surgical sutures for decades due to its biocompatibility. The material is safely absorbed by the body over time, typically through hydrolysis, breaking down into water and carbon dioxide. Threads are introduced into the subcutaneous tissue layer using a fine needle or cannula through tiny entry points, minimizing trauma. Once placed, the threads provide immediate mechanical support and initiate a controlled biological response. The physical thread is resorbable and disappears within approximately six to eight months, priming the area for long-term changes.
The Desired Outcome: Controlled Tissue Renewal
The objective of a PDO thread procedure is to stimulate a controlled healing response distinct from pathological scarring. The presence of the foreign material triggers a mild, localized inflammatory reaction in the dermis and subcutaneous layers. This intentional process activates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for synthesizing collagen. This targeted cellular activity leads to neocollagenesis, which is the formation of new, organized collagen bundles around the dissolving thread. This new collagen creates a supportive, fibrous capsule that remains long after the PDO thread is fully absorbed, providing long-term structural integrity and improving skin texture.
Identifying True Scarring and Adverse Reactions
While the procedure promotes beneficial tissue remodeling, true adverse scarring is a rare possibility associated with specific factors. Scarring at the small insertion points can occur, especially in individuals predisposed to forming keloids or hypertrophic scars. Poor technique, such as placing threads too superficially, can also lead to visible irregularities, pitting, or dimpling of the skin surface.
Other Potential Complications
Other complications represent undesirable outcomes from the body’s reaction or the procedure itself. These include infection, which can lead to chronic inflammation and require thread removal. The formation of granulomas, small masses of immune cells around the foreign body, or thread migration and extrusion can also cause localized tissue damage. Identifying these signs early is important, as they often require intervention to prevent a permanent adverse result.
Maximizing Positive Healing
Achieving controlled tissue renewal relies heavily on both the practitioner’s skill and the patient’s adherence to post-procedure care. Selecting an experienced practitioner who uses proper sterile techniques and places the threads at the correct depth is crucial to mitigate the risk of adverse reactions. Following specific aftercare instructions is equally important for maximizing the positive healing response.
Post-Procedure Care
Patients are advised to follow several guidelines to ensure proper healing:
- Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and any activity that could increase blood pressure for one to two weeks.
- Limit excessive facial movements, such as wide yawning or chewing hard foods, for the first week to prevent tension on the threads.
- Sleep on the back with the head slightly elevated for the first few nights.
- Avoid undue pressure on the treated areas.