Throughout history, beauty enthusiasts have tried to devise new ways to reverse signs of old age. However, in the new age of social media, non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as polydioxanone(PDO) threads have emerged and quickly gained popularity. The popularity is mainly fueled by the procedure’s non-invasiveness and reduced downtime.
However, the procedure has a couple of downsides that one should be aware of in order to make an informed decision. The good news is there are equally as many preventive tips and treatments that you can use to manage the side effects.
In this detailed guide, we will explore the top ten PDO thread lift side effects that any treatment patient should look out for. Let us dive in!
So, What Exactly are PDO Thread Lifts?
Before we look at the side effects, we must evaluate some preliminaries, such as what these threads are. Polydioxanone threads are deduced from the amino acid Polydioxanone that stimulates collagen production.
The sutures are inserted and anchored across the skin using a cannula or tiny needles. The threads then gradually dissolve, prompting increased collagen production. Collagen, in turn, ensures the skin regains its elasticity and improves its texture.
Therefore, if you are looking for a non-surgical procedure that will have you back to your daily activities as soon as possible, PDO threads are the way to go.
Types of threads
There are various types of threads used in non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Polydioxanone threads are one type of these threads; others include Polylactic acid threads (PLA) and Polycaprolactone threads(PCA).
PDO threads, however, have been around for quite a while and can be dated back to the 1980s. They were originally used in delicate surgical procedures such as cardiac and pediatric surgeries.
These threads come in different shapes and sizes depending on their use cases. They may be barbs or anchors designed to give the skin a nice lift by holding it back.
You can discuss with your practitioner, the desired expectation and the skin concern you wish to address. The types of threads can be summarized as follows:
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Polylactic co-glycolic acid(PLGA) threads
Polydioxanone threads
Poly L Lactic acid threads
Polycaprolactone (PCL) threads
Polyglycolic acid threads
The common characteristic of these types of threads is that they are all made up of dissolvable materials. These materials are similar to sugar, thus the name “sugar threads,” and once absorbed, they stimulate increased collagen production.
PDO threads can either be
- Cogs or barbed threads: these threads have tiny hooks along their length and are anchored into the skin to give it the desired lift. These are ideal for patients who are seeking instant results from a lifting effect. Patients often use these threads along the jowl and cheeks.
- Svtre threads: These threads are ideal for patients who are seeking volume restoration in areas that suffer volume loss as we age. These are ideal for nasolabial folds and under eyes, giving you that full, supple look that ensures you enjoy perpetual youth.
- Mono threads:These are simple threads that only offer collagen stimulation, they have no hooks or barbs, and they are not voluminous. They are installed into the skin in a mesh-like framework to create more support.
They are ideal for skin rejuvenation and improving skin texture, especially on the brow areas and the forehead. Young patients with a few skin concerns to address may opt for these threads as they offer subtle improvements.
Top ten side effects of PDO Threads
Having understood the various types of threads and a brief overview of how these threads work, wee can now look at the side effects.
1. Tenderness, Bruising, and Swelling
As mentioned, inserting PDO threads involves needles or tiny incisions to insert the cannula. Therefore, some swelling is expected as the body’s natural response to the punctures on the skin and the new material.
The treated areas will likely experience typical swelling peaks 24 to 48 hours after the procedure; however, this should go away in a few days.
If the swelling persists, you are likely to experience tenderness and bruising. Ensure that you consult your doctor if it takes more than three weeks to subside.
Management tips
The good news is there are a few ways you can use to prevent increased swelling; these include:
- Using a cold compress on the treated areas -Low temperature soothes the pain and constricts the blood vessels in the treated areas, reducing fluid retention in the tissues.
- Elevate treated areas- When sleeping, you can add extra pillows to support your head. This will reduce the fluid accumulated in the tissues, especially in the facial areas.
- Avoid strenuous activities-This is necessary especially in the first 48 hours after the procedure. Vigorous physical activities may increase swelling, which may slow down the healing process.
- Take some painkillers- Your doctor will prescribe some over-the-counter inflammatories to help you manage the pain.
2. Infections
Another PDO thread lift side effect is the risk of infection after the procedure. Although the risk of infection after a PDO thread lift procedure is minimal, you may still experience some infections if you fail to follow the recommended aftercare tips. After the procedure, the treated areas are still delicate and receptive to germ-causing bacteria.
Therefore, one is susceptible to infections in the treated areas if you fail to maintain proper hygiene. Some early signs of infection include redness and increased body temperature. Patients with underlying conditions may experience a heightened risk of infection compared to healthy individuals due to a weaker immune system.
Management tips
To prevent the treated areas from infection, ensure you follow the following tips:
- Proper hygiene- First and foremost, make sure the procedure is done in a clean and sterile environment to prevent bacteria from accessing the open punctures.
- Follow your aftercare tips- Your practitioner will recommend a few aftercare depending on the recovery stage. Ensure you follow the aftercare tips to the letter. This way, you can avert any complications that may delay the healing process.
- Be on the lookout - Ensure you monitor the treated areas throughout recovery. Anything that may look abnormal or feverish should be reported to the doctor. Your practitioner may recommend antibiotics or thread removal where necessary to address any infections.
3. Thread Migration
This is often observed after patients engage in strenuous activity after a PDO thread lift treatment. If left unattended or undetected, this may cause the threads to snap out of the treated areas, leading to asymmetry.
This complication is rare; however, having the procedure carried out by a non-qualified practitioner in skill or experience may place you at a higher risk of experiencing thread migration. Additionally, excessive facial movements and poor-quality threads may cause thread movement and, finally, undesirable results.
Management tips
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Limit your facial expressions- Yawning or excessive laughing should be avoided especially in the critical stages of recovery. This way, you can ensure you maintain the threads in place and achieve your desired results.
Ensure the procedure is done by a medical practitioner- This procedure requires expertise and precision. When settling on a medical procedure ensure you carry out your due diligence. Choose one with all the proper certifications and skillsto minimize the risks of a faulty procedure.
Treatment Options
Thread migration is easily reversible. This is because you can get your threads adjusted to provide the desired symmetry and results. Additionally, your doctor may recommend getting some additional threads on the affected areas to reinforce the facelift
4. Skin Dimpling
Skin dimpling occurs as a PDO thread lift side effect when the threads are tightly pulled to the extent that there are lumps and uneven texture on the skin. This is common in the first few hours after the procedure. However, it is likely that this will go away in a few days after the treated areas begin adjusting to the treatment.
However, some cases may be extreme and may need medical intervention, especially when the patient is uncomfortable.
As mentioned, the procedure requires utmost precision, and thus, the need for a qualified practitioner cannot be overemphasized.
Meanwhile, here are some management tips
- Elevate your head: If the threads are inserted in the facial areas, ensure you keep your head elevated as you sleep. Again, this will help reduce fluid retention.
- Massage the affected areas: doctor may recommend that you massage these areas to ease the discomfort. You can do this using two fingers and pressing them against your skin in circular motions. Doing this will help the threads stick properly in place and also stimulate blood circulation to the treated areas.
- Revision: If the symptoms persist, you may need to undergo a revision procedure to rectify the thread placement or add more where necessary.
5. Allergic reactions
PDO threads are made of biocompatible materials that are generally safe for the body. This way they are easily absorbed without much risk to the body. However, in some rare circumstances, patients may experience allergic reactions that cause discomfort. Some early signs of allergy reactions include redness and itching.
Some popular management tips include :
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Taking antihistamines: these will help reduce the inflammation and the itching in the first few days. However, always inform your medical practitioner of any signs of allergies, as not all medications may be compatible with the procedure.
Disclosure: It is important to ensure you inform your medical practitioner of any impending allergic reactions you may suffer from before undergoing the procedure.
6. Visible thre
At times, patients may observe some palpable threads under the skin after their installation. Suppose the threads are placed too close to the epidermis, there is a possibility that you may see the threads protruding on the skin even after the procedure.
One is likely to find this undesirable, especially since you were seeking a more discrete and subtle look.
Management tips of this PDO thread lift side effect
- You can manage this by first ensuring that a qualified medical practitioner does the procedure. A skilled doctor can easily determine the appropriate depth for the thread insertion.
Careful and precise insertion of the threads helps minimize the risks of palpable threads.
- Consider a revision: where the results are entirely undesirable, you are advised to consider a do-over. This way, the threads can be properly inserted for optimum results. Remember, the deeper the threads, the more effective the results.
7. Broken Threads
Another common PDO thread lift side effect is broken threads. If the threads are anchored into the skin too tightly, some threads may break during or after insertion. You can manage this by removing the broken threads and replacing them with other threads.
8. Short Lived results
PDO thread lift results typically last for a shorter time compared to surgical procedures. They ideally last for about 8 to 14 months. You may, therefore, need touch-ups in between these months to ensure the longevity of the desired results.
As such, this may prove to be more expensive compared to other cosmetic treatments. Additionally, the short-lived results may not be ideal for patients who are seeking more permanent and instant results.
As mentioned, the results from a PDO thread lift are not drastic, and the collagen stimulation is more progressive than instant. Some patients may, therefore, find this dissatisfying, especially those with extensive sagging and more wrinkles.
As a result, your medical practitioner may advise that you combine this treatment method with other procedures for more long-term results.
9. Asymmetry
This PDO thread lift side effect, though rare, may occur if an inexperienced practitioner performs the procedure. Asymmetry is whereby some areas look more lifted than others, creating an uneven look.
This further underscores the importance of precision in the procedure to acquire your desired sweet sixteen look. Asymmetry can be corrected by repositioning the threads or getting more threads on the affected areas.
10. Nerve Injury
In rare circumstances, nerve damage may occur. This is likely to happen when the procedure is carried out by an individual who does not understand the basic anatomy of the facial muscles.
The complication may manifest as discoloration, swelling, or increased pain and discomfort. These symptoms often disappear after a while; however, ensure you communicate these to your practitioner for immediate action.
This way, they can address further complications while ensuring your overall safety. They can also recommend aftercare treatments that will ease the pain and ensure you acquire your desired look.
Conclusion
PDO thread lift installation has quickly gained popularity as a cosmetic treatment. Installing these threads is an art that requires skill and precision. Failure to do so may lead to multiple side effects, some of which are outlined in this guide.
The list provided here is by no means exhaustive. However, it underscores the importance of having the procedure done by a medical practitioner who understands the necessity of precision.
Meanwhile, if you have already had the procedure, ensure you follow the after-care tips. This will help you acquire your desired results much quicker.
Why choose Diaminy PDO threads
At Diaminy, we ensure you acquire and maintain your desired youthful look on a budget. Our team of medical practitioners tests each product delivered to you, providing quality results with no complications.
Diaminy also ensures you are well-informed beforehand to make a well-guided decision. Our blogs add to what the practitioners recommend, either on aftercare or the potential side effects. That being said, visit us diaminyaesthetics.com for more information today.
