Thread Lift

What is PDO Thread Lift?

An excellent and effective cosmetic technique to lift and tighten sagging skin tissues. Thread lift therapy originated from oriental acupuncture therapy to control and improve tissue stimulation and muscle contraction. The threads are made of a material called Polydioxanone (PDO). Polydioxanone (PDO) has been used for many years in surgery, particularly in cardiothoracic surgery. Why? Because it is fully absorbed within 4 to 6 months and doesn’t create any scar tissue. The foreign body stimulates collagen production and the skin structure created with Nova Threads will hold for another 12 to 15 months. There are no cuts or incisions and the procedure is purely injection based much like other fillers! The Nova Threads are needles that are pre-loaded with varying types of PDO threads. The threads are inserted in the tissue, parallel to the surface of the skin. The PDO thread remains under the skin and acts as scaffolding.

Which areas can be treated?

• Upper and lower cheeks
• Foreheads (brow lift)
• Jawline, Neck
• Nasolabial folds (nose to mouth lines)
• Marionette lines (corners of the mouth)

How does the treatment work?

The PDO Thread Lift works by redefining the facial contours and inducing collagen production creating a lifting effect that lasts for up to 1 – 2 years. The threads will form a support structure for the tissue of the face due to collagen stimulation. The lifting effect is at its peak 6 months later when collagen has formed around the threads.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects are very rare; however, you may experience: Swelling, Bruising, Infection, Foreign body reaction/granuloma, Pain, Migration, Facial nerve trauma, and Asymmetry.

Pre-treatment instructions

You will first undergo a full consultation to ensure you are an ideal candidate for treatment. Aspirin prescribed for a medical indication should not be terminated. However, bruising is more likely. Arnica tablets taken from about 5 days pre-treatment may be beneficial in reducing swelling after the treatment. We advise you to stop taking all blood ‘thinning” supplements such as Fish Oil, Vitamin C and Vitamin E and certain herbs.

Thread Lift aftercare instructions

1. Apply SPF 30 + and avoid direct sunlight in order to prevent post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).
2. Gently wash the treated areas on the same day but do not rub or massage the face for 2 weeks.
3. Do not open mouth too wide for 3-4 weeks (avoid dental treatment for 2 weeks if possible)
4. A stinging or “pulling” pain or discomfort is normal. Take Tylenol 500 mg 1-2 tablets every 6 hours as directed. Avoid taking any anti-inflammatory medication such as Naproxen or Ibuprofen, because inflammation is necessary to initiate the new collagen formation process. Ibuprofen and similar medications will suppress this process.
5. Avoid alcohol and anti-coagulant medicines (aspirin, unless prescribed for medical indications) for 7 days.
6. Avoid blood “thinning” vitamins C, A & E for 7 days.
7. Avoid temperature extremes such as sauna or very cold climate for 10 days.
8. Avoid physical exercise for 7 days post procedure.
9. Avoid having Radio Frequency (RF) or any heat producing device (laser, IPL, etc.) treatments of the thread treated areas for at least 2 weeks.
10. Stinging or “Pulling” discomfort or scratchy sensation will subside over a 2-week period.
11. Possible complications may include Infection, swelling, bruising, foreign body reaction in epidermis (granuloma) and protrusion. Extremely rare, temporary facial nerve fall out may occur due to local anesthetic, swelling, hematoma or pressure of the cannula or thread on the nerve. Your practitioner MUST be informed immediately if facial nerve fall out is experienced and if your practitioner can’t be reached then go immediately to the Emergency Department.
12. Follow up examination 2 weeks later.
13. Follow-up appointment at 3 months post procedure.