Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure designed to lift sagging facial tissues using absorbable sutures. Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are the most common materials used, offering both mechanical lift and collagen stimulation.
1. Mechanics of PDO Thread Vectors
Threads are available as mono (smooth, for skin rejuvenation) or cog (barbed, for mechanical lift). Cog threads are inserted into the subcutaneous plane where their barbs anchor into the fascia. Pulling the threads along predefined vectors elevates the skin layers.
2. Depth Control and Safety
Inserting threads too superficially can lead to visible puckering, thread extrusion, or palpable ridges. Injecting too deeply can damage key facial nerves or vessels. The ideal placement is in the subcutaneous fat layer, just above the SMAS layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
PDO threads are made of Polydioxanone, a medical-grade, biodegradable polymer that has been used in surgeries for decades and safely dissolves over time.
Cog threads are placed in the subcutaneous fat layer, just above the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer, where they anchor into the tissue.
The physical threads dissolve within 6 months, but the collagen stimulation they trigger maintains the lifting effect for 12 to 18 months.
Superficial placement can cause skin dimpling, puckering, visible thread outlines under the skin, infection, or the thread pushing its way out.
No. Thread lifts are suitable for mild-to-moderate laxity. They do not remove excess skin, so they cannot replace a surgical facelift for severe sagging.
Avoid dental work, facial massages, intense exercise, and sleeping on the face for 2 to 3 weeks, and limit excessive facial movements.
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