Do PDO Lifts Require Maintenance Treatments?

Polydioxanone (PDO) lifts are popular for those seeking non-surgical solutions to combat facial aging and sagging skin. These minimally invasive procedures involve inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten the facial area. Many potential patients are curious about the longevity of these effects and whether they require follow-up treatments to maintain the desired results.

PDO Lift Procedure: What to Expect

The PDO lift for sagging skin is a straightforward process designed to rejuvenate and lift sagging skin without the need for traditional surgical interventions. It begins with a consultation, during which the practitioner assesses the patient’s skin condition and discusses the desired outcomes. During the procedure itself, fine threads made of polydioxanone, a biodegradable polymer, are inserted under the skin using thin needles. These threads create a supportive structure that instantly lifts the skin and stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin texture and elasticity.

The treatment typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the number of threads used. Local anesthesia is often applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After the threads are in place, they gradually dissolve over the next six to eight months, but the beneficial effects last much longer due to the increased collagen in the treated areas.

PDO lifts are particularly effective for lifting sagging skin, making them an appealing option for those looking to address signs of aging, such as jowls, drooping cheeks, or sagging necklines. The procedure can lead to noticeable improvements in skin tightness and facial contours with minimal downtime. Patients can expect mild swelling or bruising immediately after the procedure, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. 

Benefits of PDO Lift

PDO lift delivers many benefits tailored for those seeking minimally invasive cosmetic enhancements. 

1. Immediate Results: The lifting effect is visible immediately after the procedure, as the threads provide instant support to lift and tighten the skin.
2. Minimal Downtime: Unlike surgical facelifts, PDO lifts require minimal recovery time. Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two.
3. Non-Surgical: As a non-surgical procedure, PDO lifts avoid the risks and complications associated with invasive surgery, such as scarring and lengthy recovery periods.
4. Natural Collagen Production: The threads stimulate natural collagen production in the skin, which improves skin elasticity and firmness over time, enhancing the youthful appearance.
5. Customizable Treatment: The procedure can be tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals, targeting specific areas of the face or neck.
6. Long-Lasting Effects: While the threads dissolve within a few months, the collagen stimulation can extend the lift’s effects for up to two years.
7. Low Risk of Complications: PDO lifts have a lower risk of complications than traditional surgical methods, making them a safer option for skin rejuvenation.
8. Versatility: This treatment can be used in conjunction with other aesthetic procedures to enhance overall results, such as fillers or Botox.
9. No General Anesthesia Required: PDO lifts are performed under local anesthesia, which is safer and allows for a quicker recovery than general anesthesia.

PDO Lift Recovery and Aftercare

After the procedure, keep the treatment area clean and avoid touching or applying pressure to the face. This helps prevent infection and ensures the threads settle properly without shifting. Ice packs can be spread to lessen swelling and alleviate discomfort.

Patients are recommended to avoid strenuous activities and exercise for about a week after the treatment. This precaution helps to prevent any movement that could displace the threads before they have integrated fully with the tissue. It’s also recommended to sleep with the head elevated for the first few nights to subside swelling.

Gentle skincare is also necessary during the recovery phase. Patients should use soft motions when cleansing the face and avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas. Direct sunlight should be avoided, and a high-SPF sunscreen should be used to protect the skin, as it will be more susceptible to UV rays after the procedure.

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled a week after the procedure and then a month later to monitor the treatment’s healing process and effectiveness. These visits are crucial to ensure that the threads function as intended and assess the stimulation of collagen production.

Do PDO Lifts Require Maintenance Treatments? Maintaining Your PDO Lift Results

Typically, the effects of a PDO lift can last between one to two years. However, maintaining these results often involves considering follow-up or maintenance treatments.

The threads used in PDO lifts dissolve naturally within six to eight months after the procedure. Still, the collagen stimulation they induce continues to enhance skin texture and elasticity beyond the lifespan of the threads. To prolong the rejuvenated appearance, some patients opt for maintenance treatments. These are not mandatory but can be beneficial for extending the lift’s efficacy, especially in cases of advanced skin sagging or when the initial results begin to diminish.

Maintenance treatments usually involve inserting new PDO threads in strategic areas to continue supporting the skin and encouraging collagen production. The timing of these treatments varies; some patients may seek them annually, while others might wait longer based on their satisfaction with the results and the natural aging process.

In addition to possible maintenance treatments with new PDO threads, a robust skincare regimen can also support the results of a PDO lift. This includes regular hydration, sun exposure protection, and products that facilitate collagen synthesis, such as retinoids and vitamin C serums. Likewise, adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and reduced stress, can help maintain the intended results. 

Takeaway

Ready to rejuvenate your look with minimal downtime? Contact The Aesthetics Loft today to schedule your assessment and discover how PDO lifts can transform your appearance. Our skilled professionals will help you attain your aesthetic goals with personalized care and cutting-edge treatments. Don’t wait to feel your best—call us at The Aesthetics Loft and take the first step towards a more youthful, confident you!