Polydioxanone (PDO) threads have become a popular non-surgical option for individuals seeking to address signs of aging. This treatment involves the strategic placement of fine, absorbable threads beneath the skin to provide a temporary lift and encourage the body’s natural regenerative processes. Understanding how these threads dissolve and their lasting impact on the skin is central to appreciating the procedure’s longevity.
Understanding PDO Threads
PDO threads are sutures crafted from polydioxanone, a biocompatible and absorbable polymer that has been safely used in medical surgeries since the 1980s. These threads are inserted into the skin’s subcutaneous layer using small needles or cannulas. Their primary function extends beyond a physical lift; they also stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen. This material is valued for its safety and compatibility with the body, being biodegradable and breaking down into harmless byproducts like water and carbon dioxide.
PDO threads come in various forms, including smooth (mono), barbed (cog), and twisted (screw) designs, each tailored for different aesthetic goals. Mono threads primarily aim to stimulate collagen and tighten skin. Cog threads feature barbs that physically lift and support sagging tissue, commonly used for areas like cheeks and jawlines. Screw threads help restore volume to sunken areas of the skin.
The Dissolution Process and Timeline
PDO threads dissolve within the body through a biological process known as hydrolysis. This process involves water molecules gradually breaking down the polymer chains that form the threads. As the threads break down, they are safely absorbed and metabolized by the body, converting into carbon dioxide and water which are then expelled through normal bodily functions.
The typical timeline for complete dissolution of PDO threads ranges from six to nine months. During the initial three months, the threads retain much of their strength, with hydrolysis primarily occurring on the surface. Between four and six months, the threads fully dissolve, leaving behind newly formed collagen.
Factors Influencing Dissolution Rate
Several factors can influence how quickly PDO threads dissolve within the body. An individual’s metabolism plays a significant role; younger patients with faster metabolic rates tend to break down the threads more quickly than older individuals. The thickness and type of PDO thread used also affect dissolution. Thicker threads take longer to dissolve than thinner ones.
The area of placement also impacts the dissolution rate. Threads placed in areas with more frequent movement, such as around the mouth, tend to dissolve faster compared to less mobile areas like the cheeks. Additionally, a patient’s overall health and lifestyle habits, including smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress levels, can influence the body’s ability to break down the threads.
How Results Persist After Thread Dissolution
While PDO threads dissolve within six to nine months, the aesthetic improvements can persist for a longer duration, often lasting 12 to 18 months or even up to two years. This extended longevity is primarily due to neocollagenesis, the stimulation of new collagen formation. The presence of the threads in the skin triggers fibroblasts, which are cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin.
As the threads gradually dissolve, they leave behind a newly formed collagen framework that continues to provide support and lift to the skin. The threads act as a scaffold, initiating the body’s natural healing response and promoting collagen synthesis. Even after the threads are no longer physically present, the skin benefits from increased firmness, elasticity, and improved texture due to the sustained collagen production.