Quick Facts About the PDO Thread Lift
- Principle Benefits: Lifts and tightens sagging skin while stimulating collagen production for a more youthful appearance
- Treatment Process: Minimally invasive, performed in-office with a local anesthetic, typically completed in 30–45 minutes
- Recovery: Mild swelling and bruising possible; most patients resume normal activities within a few days
- Longevity of Results: Results are immediate and can last several months to over a year as collagen production continues
- Cost: Average cost of treatment is $1500, however, total pricing is dependent on the number of threads used and individual treatment goals
What Is the PDO Thread Lift?
The PDO Thread Lift, often referred to as the “lunchtime facelift,” is a minimally invasive treatment that can lift sagging tissue in the lower face and neck. Similar to NovaThreads, the PDO Thread Lift procedure involves placing absorbable surgical threads into the tissue beneath the skin to rejuvenate one’s facial appearance. These threads, composed of the polymer known as polydioxanone (PDO), are gently pulled to suspend sagging tissue, which improves facial contours and minimizes the appearance of fine and deep lines. PDO threads may also be used on the body to help the appearance of sagging skin on the breast, abdomen, arms, and legs.
PDO sutures come in different textures to accommodate different patient needs. Mono threads are single, smooth threads for subtle lifting. Cog threads are barbed to provide a lift while stimulating collagen production. And screw threads have one to two threads that are intertwined, which provides the added benefit of volumizing the area.
In addition to having a short treatment time, the PDO Thread Lift offers patients the ability to achieve a more youthful appearance without the recovery time associated with traditional surgery.
What Are the Benefits of a PDO Thread Lift?
PDO thread lifting can be a safe and effective method of facial rejuvenation for patients, offering numerous benefits such as:
- Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation – Provides lifting and tightening effects without the need for invasive surgery.
- Minimally Invasive – Requires only small entry points, reducing downtime and risk compared to traditional facelifts.
- Stimulates Collagen Production – Helps improve skin elasticity, texture, and firmness over time.
- Quick Procedure – Typically completed in under an hour, often referred to as a “lunchtime lift.”
- Minimal Downtime – Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.
- Natural-Looking Results – Enhances facial contours while maintaining a subtle and natural appearance.
- Temporary but Long-Lasting – Threads dissolve over time, but the collagen boost can extend the results for several months to over a year.
- Customizable Treatment – Can target specific areas such as the jawline, cheeks, brows, and neck.
- Safe with Low Risk – PDO threads are biocompatible and naturally absorbed by the body.
- Can Be Combined with Other Treatments – Works well alongside dermal fillers, BOTOX® Cosmetic, or laser and light treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation.


What Does the PDO Thread Lift Procedure Entail?
The PDO Thread Lift is an outpatient procedure performed with local anesthetic. To begin the procedure, your provider will strategically place the optimal type and number of sutures into the subcutaneous tissue. These sutures are made of a dissolving material that has been widely used in the medical field for over 30 years. After they have been inserted into the desired area, they will be adjusted to a slightly elevated position.
As soon as the sutures are in place, you should see your lifted results. In addition to this immediate improvement, the sutures stimulate collagen growth over time. The duration of the PDO Thread Lift procedure will vary based on how many threads are placed, but the process can typically be completed within 30 to 45 minutes. After your procedure, you can expect minimal downtime. Our team will provide you with personalized instructions for how to care for your treatment area in the following days and weeks.
What Is Recovery Like After a PDO Thread Lift?
Recovery after a PDO thread lift is typically mild, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days. Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness may occur but usually subside within 1-2 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, excessive facial movements, and pressure on the treated areas for about two weeks. Sleeping on your back and avoiding alcohol or blood-thinning medications can help minimize swelling. Results gradually improve as collagen production increases, enhancing skin firmness and lift. Following post-procedure care instructions ensures optimal healing and long-lasting results.
How Long Do PDO Thread Lift Results Last?
Results from the PDO Thread Lift are immediate, and the area continues to improve as new collagen production adds more volume with time. The absorbable threads gradually dissolve over the first four to six months, but the benefits of your procedure should last beyond this time as new collagen is produced. The PDO Thread Lift is considered a longer-lasting solution compared to treatment with injectables. To prolong the effects of the PDO Thread Lift, patients can have follow-up treatments performed.