What Is The Difference Between PDO And Barbed Threads?

PDO and Barbed threads differ vastly, from the compositor of the thread itself to the result delivered. 

PDO threads also known as surgical sutures are composed of artificially synthesised polydioxanone that is absorbable by the body increasing targeted collagen production in order to produce subtle contours. PDO threads are commonly inserted into the mid-lower layers of the skin in order to maximise the effectiveness of the resulting collagen synthesis. A topical anaesthesia is commonly applied to the treatment area for a PDO Thread lift treatment. 

Barbed Threads also fall into the surgical suture family but are much larger and stronger than their PDO counterparts, with protruding moulded barbs that allow the thread to implant and anchor into the deeper layers of the skin. Barbed threads can then be gently activated, creating a mechanical and dramatic lift of the target area. Barbed Threads are inserted into the sub-dermal layers of the skin using a blunt cannula, a local anaesthesia is commonly injected into the targeted area at the start of a Barb thread treatment.  

Benefits of PDO Threads:

PDO Threads do not provide lift to the treated area but rapidly increase collagen (Type 1) production, restoring volume and tightening the skin. This makes PDO Threads an effective treatment for:

 – Volume loss

• Elasticity concerns
• Crepey skin 
• Thin skin

Benefits of Barbed Threads:

Barbed Threads provide a mechanical lift to the treated area, creating a dramatic yet natural-looking lift. A Barbed thread lift is commonly implemented when a patient has experienced leaking of the facial support structure, loss of facial fat, and the elastin fibres have begun to break down. Common concerns treated using Barbed Threads include:

• Sagging Skin
• Fine lines and Wrinkles
• Nasolabial Folds
• Sagging Jowls
• Turkey Neck
• Relapse problems post-facelift/neck lift. 

Side Effects of Both PDO and Barbed thread lifts are relatively limited, considering the results that can be yielded for said treatments and considerably less in comparison to their surgical counterparts. Potential side effects include:

• Edema
• Puckering
• Erythema
• Mild Procedural Pain
• Structural Granuloma (Rare)

Whilst the results derived from both PDO and Barbed Thread lift procedures are long-lasting, it is important to understand that they are not permanent. Maintenance treatments will be required to protect and prolong the results of the treatment. 

Combination Treatments:

In our experience, more effective results and higher patient satisfaction is achieved when Thread lifts are administered in combination with additional non-invasive procedures such as Dermal Fillers, Radio Frequency, and Mechanised Microneedling. By adopting a mixed modality approached, we can dramatically enhance the potential results of a thread lift treatment achieving:

• Better Jawline Definition
• Plump Cheeks
• Natural Facial Contours
• Enhanced Skin Tone
  

In Summary, the popularity of PDO and Barbed thread lift treatments is growing exponentially due to the striking results that can be achieved from a treatment that is not only quick to administer but carries a relatively low risk. Thread lifts are providing an alternative solution to patients who are not ready for a facelift but require an effective longer-lasting rejuvenation procedure. To find out how a thread could be the solution for you, contact Aesthetics of Liverpool and book in for your consultation today.