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Non-Surgical Facelift

PDO Threads

A minimally invasive facelift alternative using dissolvable PDO (polydioxanone) threads inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissue while stimulating collagen production.

$1,500–$3,500 depending on area

About This Treatment

PDO thread lifts offer a compelling solution for patients who want to address sagging skin and loss of facial definition without undergoing surgery. Using dissolvable polydioxanone (PDO) sutures — a material with a 30-year safety track record in surgical applications — threads are strategically placed beneath the skin to physically lift and reposition tissue while stimulating collagen production along the thread pathway.

There are two main types of PDO threads used at Lodi MedSpa. Smooth (mono) threads are placed in a mesh pattern to stimulate collagen and improve skin quality and mild tightness — ideal for the neck, under-eye area, and overall skin rejuvenation. Barbed (cog or lifting) threads have tiny hooks that grip tissue and physically elevate it into a more youthful position — used for jowl lifting, mid-face rejuvenation, brow lifting, and jawline definition. Most treatment plans combine both types for comprehensive results.

The procedure takes 45-90 minutes under local anesthesia and provides an immediate visible lift, with continued improvement over the following 3-6 months as collagen remodels around the thread scaffolding. Recovery involves 3-7 days of mild swelling and 2 weeks of activity restrictions, after which patients resume all normal activities. Results last 12-18 months, and many patients schedule annual maintenance treatments to sustain their lifted appearance. PDO threads pair beautifully with neurotoxins and fillers for comprehensive non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

What to Expect

Duration

45–90 minutes

Downtime

3–7 days of mild swelling, avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks

Results

Immediate lifting with continued improvement over 3–6 months as collagen builds. Results last 12–18 months.

Popular Uses

  • ✓Jowls
  • ✓Mid-face lifting
  • ✓Neck tightening
  • ✓Brow lift
  • ✓Jawline definition

Frequently Asked Questions

What are PDO threads made of?
PDO (polydioxanone) threads are made from a biocompatible, absorbable suture material that has been used in surgery for decades. The threads dissolve naturally over 6-8 months, but the collagen stimulation they trigger continues to provide lifting and tightening effects for 12-18 months.
What is the difference between smooth and barbed threads?
Smooth threads are thinner threads placed in a mesh pattern under the skin to stimulate collagen and improve skin texture and tightness. Barbed (or lifting) threads have tiny barbs or cogs that anchor into tissue to physically lift sagging skin. Many treatments combine both types for optimal lifting and skin quality improvement.
How long is the recovery from a PDO thread lift?
Most patients experience 3-7 days of mild swelling and tenderness. You should avoid opening your mouth wide, sleeping on your side, and strenuous exercise for about 2 weeks. Most patients return to work and social activities within 3-5 days. Full results are visible once swelling resolves, typically within 2-4 weeks.
Who is a good candidate for PDO threads?
Ideal candidates are adults with mild to moderate skin laxity who want a non-surgical alternative to a facelift. Common treatment areas include jowls, mid-face, neck, brows, and nasolabial folds. PDO threads work best for patients who are not yet ready for surgical intervention but want more lifting than injectables alone can provide.
Can PDO threads be combined with other treatments?
Yes. PDO threads are often combined with neurotoxins, dermal fillers, or skin resurfacing treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation. However, these additional treatments are typically performed at separate appointments to allow proper healing. Your provider will design a multi-treatment plan tailored to your goals.

Ready to Get Started?

Book your complimentary consultation to learn if pdo threads is right for you. Our provider will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals.

Book a ConsultationCall (209) 921-5634