What Are PDO Threads? A Comprehensive Guide

April 23, 2025

Polydioxanone (PDO) threads are biodegradable polyester sutures used in non-surgical cosmetic treatments to support the skin’s structure. Initially developed for surgical suturing, they are now widely used in PDO thread lift treatments, which involve inserting fine threads beneath the skin’s subcutaneous layer to provide structural support and influence collagen production.

Unlike traditional cosmetic surgery, such as facelift surgery, PDO threads offer a minimally invasive alternative for individuals seeking to address mild to moderate skin laxity with minimal downtime. As the threads dissolve over time, they may contribute to natural collagen production, influencing skin quality over an extended period.

The History of PDO Threads

PDO threads were introduced in the 1980s as biodegradable sutures in cardiovascular and orthopaedic surgery. Their ability to provide temporary structural support while being safely absorbed by the body led to their widespread adoption in various medical fields.

Development in Cosmetic Treatments

In the 1990s, cosmetic practitioners began using non-absorbable threads, such as polypropylene, to reposition facial tissues. However, complications such as thread migration, visibility, and long-term maintenance led to further innovations.

By the early 2000s, PDO thread lifts were introduced as a safer and temporary alternative. These absorbable threads eliminated thread accumulation, dissolving naturally while also stimulating collagen production.

How PDO Threads Work

PDO threads function through two phases; involving both an initial structural support effect and a longer-term collagen stimulation process.

Immediate Lifting Effect

Lifting PDO threads are designed with barbs or cogs that interact with subdermal tissues. When inserted, these threads may provide structural support by engaging with the skin’s underlying layers.

During the procedure, thin needles or cannulas are used to carefully position the PDO threads beneath the skin. Once placed, the threads act as a scaffolding system, which may contribute to a repositioning effect in the targeted areas.

This lifting effect is temporary, as the threads naturally dissolve over 6 to 9 months. While the immediate structural support provided by the threads diminishes as they dissolve, additional benefits may continue to develop over time through collagen stimulation.

Long-Term Collagen Stimulation

As the PDO material dissolves, the body initiates a healing response, activating cells responsible for collagen production. This process occurs gradually, contributing to changes in skin texture and firmness over several months.

Through this collagen-stimulating process, the skin’s underlayer may receive additional support, which may help maintain skin integrity and elasticity. While PDO mono threads typically dissolve within 6 to 9 months, the collagen produced in response to the treatment may influence skin quality for up to 12 to 18 months.

However, individual results vary, and the longevity of the effects depends on skin characteristics, lifestyle factors, and the body’s natural regenerative processes.

Types of PDO Threads

PDO threads are classified based on their design and intended function, with different types used to achieve varying aesthetic goals.

Lifting Threads

Lifting threads are designed with small barbs or cogs along their length, allowing them to anchor into the subdermal layers of the skin. Once positioned, these threads provide a repositioning effect that may contribute to improved facial contours.

This type of PDO thread is commonly used in procedures targeting areas such as the neck, jawline, and midface, where additional structural support may be beneficial. While PDO thread lift treatments may offer a temporary lifting effect, they are not a replacement for facelift surgery, as their results are more subtle and gradually develop over time.

Mono Threads

PDO mono threads are smooth threads without barbs, primarily used for skin texture support rather than repositioning. Unlike lifting threads, mono threads do not anchor into the skin but instead work by stimulating collagen production over time, which may help improve skin elasticity and texture.

Mono thread treatments are commonly performed in areas such as the forehead, under-eye region, and necklines, where the primary goal is to enhance skin firmness rather than create a lifting effect. While PDO mono threads may contribute to collagen stimulation, they do not reposition or physically lift the skin in the way that barbed threads do.

Twisted or Screw Threads

Twisted or screw-shaped PDO threads have a coiled design and may assist in providing volume in specific treatment areas. These threads are commonly used in areas such as the cheeks where additional support and volume may be sought.

Twisted threads may also be used alongside PDO mono threads in certain treatment plans to provide additional support and collagen stimulation. The selection of PDO thread types depends on an individual’s skin condition and treatment goals, as determined by a qualified practitioner.

Cost Considerations for PDO Threads

The cost of a PDO thread lift treatment varies depending on:

Number of threads used
Treated area (jawline, midface, necklines, etc.)
Type of threads (PDO mono threads vs. lifting threads)

Estimated Costs

LIFTING threads: from $2500
MONO threads Midface and jawline: from $400
MONO threads Full-face treatment: from $600

Want To Learn More About the PDO Thread lift Procedure? Contact Us Today!

If you are considering a PDO thread lift and would like to explore whether this treatment is suitable for you. At Medaesthetics, we provide personalised assessments to ensure you receive professional guidance based on your goals and expectations. Our clinical team follows medical guidelines to help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.