PDO threads take about 2 to 3 months to fully settle, allowing initial swelling and potential dimpling to subside as the threads integrate and collagen production ramps up, leading to final, smoother results. While you get an immediate lift, the final improvement appears gradually as your body builds new collagen over the next couple of months, with peak results often seen around 2-6 months post-treatment.
PDO thread lifts enhance facial contours by inserting dissolvable threads that create an immediate lifting effect. This procedure stimulates collagen production, resulting in firmer, more defined facial structures as skin elasticity improves over time.
Most patients are back to normal activities within a few days, but there are still important things to keep in mind. Here's what you can generally expect: Mild swelling and bruising: This usually resolves within 3–7 days. Soreness or tightness: Particularly near the jawline or cheeks, depending on thread placement.
Sleeping position can significantly impact the outcome of your PDO thread lift. Sleeping on your side or stomach may apply uneven pressure to the treated areas, risking thread displacement. For the first 2 to 3 weeks, it is recommended to sleep on your back with your head elevated.
PDO threads aftercare is super important to prevent complications or compromise the results. Some of the essential PDO threads do and don't include the following: Don't rub your face: Rubbing the skin after a thread lift can force the threads to move out of their place and compromise the results.
There is a reason the vast majority of board-certified facial plastic surgeons, myself included, do not offer threads and generally are opposed to their use. Simply, they don't work as advertised.
Week 1: Most visible swelling subsides; facial contours begin to take shape. Week 2–3: Skin starts healing around threads; mild residual swelling may remain. Month 1–2: Threads fully integrate; collagen production enhances lifting effect. Month 3–6: Maximum result achieved; skin looks firmer and more defined.
Avoid bath (only shower), strenuous activities/sports for 1 week. Avoid Direct Heat, RF, Laser, IPL treatment for 4 weeks. AVOID excessive chewing, talking, yawning, smiling, and other facial movements of the treated area(s) for 1 week. You might occasionally feel a small pop to the area.
Beyond the Third Week. By the fourth week, most patients can return to their preferred sleeping positions if they are healing well but must be cleared by their surgeon. Some patients may be instructed to continue head elevation longer if any significant swelling remains.
4. Smoking and alcohol. You should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 14 days after a PDO thread lift for the most effective results.
First and foremost, drink plenty of water! Water serves a lot of functions in the body and will be particularly good to reduce swelling after surgery. Many patients wonder if adding more water to the body can only make swelling worse, but the truth is that it really helps with swelling.
Mild to moderate swelling can be expected, which should dissipate within a few days. Ice as needed for the first day and use warm compression after the first day to promote faster healing.
You can use a cool or heat compress to help with the swelling. Sleep with your head elevated as it will minimise swelling and promote healing. In the first week, feel free to walk around your house for 15 to 20 minutes. Gradually, build up the duration to 30 minutes as you feel better.
The subtle yet noticeable changes in her facial contours over the years align with the effects of this non-surgical procedure. Kim Kardashian, a trendsetter in beauty treatments, has been more open about her use of PDO threads.
Gen Z is saying "no" to Botox (or "notox") due to a desire for authenticity, a fear of the unnatural "Instagram Face," concerns about long-term risks, high costs, and a shift towards preventative, natural skincare and wellness, influenced by social media showing both the hype and potential negative outcomes of injectables. They prefer embracing individuality and investing in skin health through peptides, diet, and energy-based treatments, rather than relying on neurotoxins for "prejuvenation".
PDO threads can be used to treat areas like the face, neck, jowls, and jawline, helping to lift sagging skin and reduce wrinkles.
Ignoring your surgeon's advice and sleeping without your garment prematurely can lead to: Increased Swelling: Lack of support may cause excessive swelling, prolonging the recovery period. Uneven Healing: Without proper compression, the tissues may settle improperly, resulting in an uneven or lumpy appearance.
Hair Washing After Surgery
Please start washing/rinsing your hair after the cotton dressing is removed four days after your procedure. The first time you wash your hair, just let the water run through it.
Some patients are recommended to wear compression up to 24 hours a day for 1 to 2 weeks or even longer after surgery. The regimen may be reduced to wearing the compression band only at night or when alone for 30 to 45 days.
Foods You Should Avoid After A Thread Lift:
Avoid showering or washing your hair for 24 hours. Avoid hot showers for at least 1 week. Limit drastic or prolonged facial expressions, yawning, extended chewing, etc. for at least 2 weeks.
Here are detailed post-care tips to ensure a smooth, effective healing period and maximize the longevity of your lift:
Facelift recovery Weeks 3 and 4
At weeks 3 and 4, you still may have some residual swelling and tightness, but for the most part, will start looking and feeling much better.
How a Facelift Surgery Can Take 10 Years Off Your Face. If you are seeking a more youthful appearance for your face, a facelift surgery might be the procedure you're looking for. This surgery, called a rhytidectomy, will remove major wrinkles, smooth lines and reduce sagging skin on your face and neck.
You will want to avoid widely opening your mouth for two weeks while the threads are incorporating.