PDO Lifting Threads Explained: How They Transform Skin Without Surgery

Sagging skin and wrinkles can make you look older than you feel. Many people want to tighten loose skin but worry about surgery, recovery time, and unnatural results.

PDO lifting threads offer a solution. This minimally invasive treatment lifts and tightens your skin without cuts, general anaesthesia, or long downtime. The results look natural, and your skin continues to improve for months after treatment.

If you notice loose skin around your jawline, cheeks, or neck, PDO lifting threads might help. This treatment works by placing special threads under your skin that lift sagging areas while triggering your body to make more collagen.

At Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic in Newcastle, we provide PDO thread lift treatments using PDO lifting threads for safe, natural results. Book a consultation to learn if this option suits your skin.

What Are PDO Lifting Threads?

PDO stands for Polydioxanone. This is a medical-grade material that doctors have used safely in surgery for over 30 years. The threads are thin, absorbable fibres that dissolve naturally in your body over time.

How PDO Threads Work

PDO lifting threads do two things at once:

Immediate Lift: The threads physically lift sagging skin when placed under the surface. You see results right away as the threads hold tissue in a higher position.

Collagen Stimulation: Your body responds to the threads by making new collagen around them. This collagen stimulation continues for months, improving your skin even after the threads dissolve.

Types of PDO Threads

Lifting Threads (Barbed) These have tiny barbs that grip tissue and create a stronger lift. Best for areas with more sagging, like jowls and cheeks.

Smooth Threads: These have no barbs and work mainly through collagen stimulation. Good for fine lines and subtle skin tightening.

Screw Threads are shaped in a spiral pattern to add volume while lifting. Used for hollow areas that need both lift and fullness.

Benefits of PDO Thread Lifting

PDO lifting threads offer many advantages over surgical facelifts and other treatments:

No Surgery Required

Minimally Invasive Procedure

• No large cuts or incisions
• Done using a fine needle
• Local anaesthetic only
• No general anaesthesia risks

Quick Treatment Time: Most sessions take 30-60 minutes, depending on how many areas you treat.

Natural-Looking Results

Subtle Improvement: PDO threads create gradual, natural changes. You won’t look “done” or overdone. Friends notice you look refreshed but can’t pinpoint why.

Your Own Collagen: The treatment works by boosting collagen production in your own body. This means results suit your face naturally.

Minimal Downtime

Fast Recovery

• Most people return to work the next day
• Minor swelling lasts 2-3 days
• Bruising is usually minimal
• No long healing period needed

Lifestyle-Friendly This makes PDO threads perfect for busy professionals who can’t take weeks off for recovery.

Long-Lasting Effects

Duration of Results

• Initial lift lasts 12-18 months
• Collagen production continues for 6-12 months
• Skin quality improves long-term
• Results can be maintained with repeat treatments

Treats Multiple Areas

PDO lifting threads work on various parts of your face and neck:

• Sagging cheeks and midface
• Jowls and jawline definition
• Loose neck skin
• Drooping eyebrows
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Marionette lines (mouth to chin)

Many patients in Newcastle choose PDO lifting threads at Skinduced because they want visible lifting without downtime. Speak to our team today and find out if this treatment is right for you.

How the PDO Thread Lifting Procedure Works

Understanding the process helps you feel more comfortable about treatment:

Initial Consultation

Skin Assessment: Your practitioner examines your skin laxity, facial structure, and areas of concern. They explain what PDO lifting threads can achieve for your specific situation.

Treatment Planning Based on your goals, they decide:

• How many threads do you need
• Which type works best for each area
• Expected results and timeline
• Cost and maintenance plan

Medical History Review: Your practitioner checks for any conditions that might affect treatment safety or results.

Treatment Day

Preparation

• Your face is cleaned thoroughly
• Treatment areas are marked
• Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the skin
• Photos are taken for comparison later

Thread Insertion

• A fine needle or cannula guides each thread under your skin
• Threads are placed in a specific pattern to create lift
• The process takes 30-60 minutes, depending onthe  areas treated
• Most people feel mild pressure but no pain

Immediate Aftercare

• Ice packs reduce swelling
• You receive care instructions
• You can go home right away
• Someone should drive you if preferred

What Happens After Treatment

First 24-48 Hours

• Mild swelling and tightness are normal
• You might feel the threads under your skin
• Avoid touching or massaging the treated area
• Sleep with your head elevated

First Week

• Swelling improves daily
• Minor bruising fades
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• Keep facial movements gentle

Following Months

• Initial lift becomes more refined
• Collagen synthesis increases
• Skin texture improves
• Natural collagen production continues

Our trained Staff at Skinduced Aesthetic Clinic use advanced PDO lifting threads designed for safe, long-lasting results. Book a personalised consultation in Newcastle and get expert guidance tailored to your skin.

Areas That Benefit from PDO Threads

PDO lifting threads work on different facial zones to address signs of aging:

Lower Face and Jawline

Jowls sagging along the jawline respond well to lifting threads. The threads pull tissue upward, creating a more defined jaw.

Marionette Lines, Lines running from the mouth corners to the chin, can be lifted and softened with carefully placed threads.

Double Chin Threads can tighten loose skin under the chin, though this often works best combined with other treatments.

Midface

Cheek Lift Threads restore volume and height to flat or sagging cheeks. This creates a more youthful contour.

Nasolabial Folds: Deep smile lines from the nose to the mouth corners can be reduced by lifting the cheek area above them.

Upper Face

Brow Lift Threads can lift drooping eyebrows without surgery. Results look natural and open up the eye area.

Forehead Lines Smooth threads help reduce horizontal forehead wrinkles through skin tightening and collagen stimulation.

Neck

Neck Bands Vertical neck bands and loose skin can be improved with threads, though severe cases might need surgery.

Neck Tightening General skin laxity on the neck responds to thread placement that creates an overall lifting effect.

PDO Threads vs Other Treatments

Comparing options helps you choose what’s right for you:

PDO Threads vs Surgical Facelift

Surgical Facelift:

• More dramatic results
• Lasts 10+ years
• Requires general anaesthesia
• Several weeks of recovery
• Higher cost
• More risks

PDO Threads:

• Natural, moderate lift
• Lasts 12-18 months
• Local anaesthetic only
• Minimal downtime
• More affordable
• Lower risk profile

PDO Threads vs Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers:

• Add volume with hyaluronic acid
• Don’t create actual lift
• Last 6-12 months
• Best for hollow areas
• No collagen stimulation

PDO Threads:

• Physical lift of tissue
• Stimulate collagen production
• Last 12-18 months
• Best for sagging skin
• Improve skin quality long-term

PDO Threads vs Botox

Botox:

• Relaxes muscles
• Smooths dynamic wrinkles
• Lasts 3-4 months
• No lifting effect
• Different mechanism

PDO Threads:

• Lift sagging tissue
• Address skin laxity
• Last much longer
• Create structural change
• Can be used together with Botox

Safety and Side Effects

PDO lifting threads are generally safe when performed by trained practitioners:

Common Side Effects

Normal Reactions

• Mild swelling for 2-5 days
• Minor bruising at insertion points
• Temporary tightness or pulling sensation
• Small bumps along thread placement (resolve quickly)

Rare Complications

• Infection (very uncommon with proper technique)
• Thread visibility under thin skin
• Asymmetry requiring adjustment
• Thread migration (rare with proper placement)

Who Should Avoid PDO Threads

Not Suitable If You Have:

• Active skin infections or acne in the treatment area
• Blood clotting disorders
• History of keloid scarring
• Autoimmune conditions (discuss with doctor)
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Unrealistic expectations

Ensuring Safe Treatment

Choose Qualified Practitioners

• Look for proper training and certification
• Ask about experience with thread lifts
• Check before and after photos
• Read patient reviews

Proper Facilities

• Clean, clinical environment
• Sterile equipment
• Emergency protocols in place

Worried about downtime or side effects? At Skinduced Newcastle, PDO thread lift consultations include a full safety review so you feel confident before treatment. Enquire today.

Maximising Your Results

Getting the most from your PDO thread treatment involves good preparation and aftercare:

Before Treatment

Two Weeks Prior:

• Stop blood-thinning supplements (fish oil, vitamin E)
• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications if possible
• Stop smoking (affects healing)
• Limit alcohol consumption

Day Before:

• Get good sleep
• Stay well hydrated
• Wash hair (avoid washing for 48 hours after)
• Plan for light activities the next day

Aftercare Instructions

First 24 Hours:

• Apply ice packs as directed
• Keep your head elevated when sleeping
• Avoid lying flat
• Take prescribed medications

First Week:

• Sleep on your back
• Avoid vigorous exercise
• Don’t massage or manipulate treated areas
• Use gentle skincare products
• Skip makeup for 24 hours

First Month:

• Avoid dental work if possible
• Limit extreme facial expressions
• Skip facial treatments
• Continue gentle skincare routine
• Protect skin from sun exposure

Maintaining Results

Skincare Support: Using products that promote collagen helps extend your results:

• Vitamin C serums
• Retinol products (after healing)
• Sunscreen daily
• Hydrating moisturizers

Healthy Lifestyle

• Eat protein-rich foods for collagen synthesis
• Stay hydrated
• Don’t smoke
• Manage stress
• Get adequate sleep

Follow-Up Treatments Many people have touch-up sessions after 12-18 months to maintain their lift.

Cost Considerations

PDO thread lift costs vary based on several factors:

What Affects Price

Number of Threads: More threads cost more. The amount needed depends on:

• Size of treatment area
• Degree of sagging
• Desired results

Thread Type Lifting threads with barbs typically cost more than smooth threads because they require more skill to place.

Treatment Area: Treating multiple zones (face and neck) costs more than treating single areas.

Practitioner Experience: Highly trained practitioners may charge more, but skill level affects results and safety.

Investment Value

Compared to Surger, PDO threads cost significantly less than surgical facelifts while still providing noticeable improvement.

Long-Term Benefits The Thecollagen-stimulatingg treatment effects continue after the threads dissolve, giving you lasting skin quality improvement.

Who Makes a Good Candidate

PDO lifting threads work best for certain situations:

Ideal Candidates

Age Range: Most suitable for people in their 30s to 60s with mild to moderate skin laxity. Younger patients with early sagging see excellent results.

Skin Condition

• Good skin elasticity
• Mild to moderate sagging
• Healthy skin without infections
• Realistic expectations

Lifestyle Factors

• Non-smokers or willing to quit
• Can follow aftercare instructions
• Understand that results are gradual
• Willing to maintain results

When to Consider Alternatives

Severe Sagging. Very loose, heavily aged skin might need surgical intervention for satisfactory results.

Very Thin Skin Extremely thin or fragile skin might show threads or heal poorly.

Other Options Work Better. Some concerns respond better to fillers, Botox, or energy-based treatments.

Real Results from PDO Thread Lifts

Many patients see noticeable improvements in skin tightening and facial contours:

What to Expect

Realistic Outcomes PDO threads create subtle to moderate lifting. You’ll look refreshed and more youthful, but not dramatically different or “done.”

Gradual Improvement Results develop over weeks and months as natural collagen production increases in the treated area. This gradual change looks more natural than sudden, dramatic changes.

Individual Variation Results vary based on age, skin condition, lifestyle, and how your body produces collagen. Your practitioner can show you before and after photos of similar patients.

Measuring Success

Visible Signs

• Lifted cheeks or brows
• Defined jawline
• Smoother neck
• Reduced fold depth
• Better skin texture

How You Feel Many patients report feeling more confident and looking more rested. Friends notice they look well without knowing why.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re considering PDO lifting threads, start with research and consultation:

Questions to Ask

About the Treatment:

• How many threads do I need?
• Which areas will benefit most?
• What results are realistic for my situation?
• How often will I need maintenance?

About Recovery:

• What restrictions will I have?
• When can I return to work?
• How long until the final results show?
• What side effects might I experience?

About the Practitioner:

• What training do you have?
• How many thread lifts have you performed?
• Can I see before and after photos?
• What happens if I’m not satisfied?

Making Your Decision

Choose PDO lifting threads if you want:

• Natural-looking rejuvenation
• No surgery or long recovery
• Gradual, building results
• Improved skin quality over time
• A treatment that fits busy schedules

Transform sagging skin without surgery. Book your PDO thread lift consultation today at Skinduced Aesthetics Clinic, Newcastle, and take the first step towards firmer, smoother skin.

FAQ’s

How long do PDO lifting threads last?

The threads themselves dissolve within 6-9 months. However, results last 12-18 months because the new collagen they create continues supporting your skin. The collagen stimulation effect provides long-term benefits even after the threads are gone.

Does the thread-lifting procedure hurt?

Most people feel minimal discomfort due to the local anaesthetic. You might feel pressure or tugging during placement, but not pain. Some soreness is normal for a few days after treatment.

Can I combine PDO threads with other treatments?

Yes, PDO lifting threads work well with other treatments. Many people combine them with Botox, dermal fillers, or skin rejuvenation procedures for better overall results.

When will I see results from PDO threads?

You see an immediate lift after treatment, though swelling may hide some results initially. Full effects appear after 2-3 weeks when swelling resolves. Results continue improving for 2-3 months as collagen increases.

Are PDO threads visible under the skin?

Properly placed threads are not visible. In rare cases, if threads are too shallow or skin is very thin, small bumps may show temporarily. These usually resolve as threads settle and dissolve.

What if I don’t like my results?

PDO threads dissolve naturally, so results aren’t permanent. However, they can’t be removed immediately like filler can. Choosing an experienced practitioner reduces this risk significantly.