PDO MAX Thread Lifts
PDO threads are fine, absorbable sutures placed beneath the skin to support tissue and encourage collagen production. Lifting threads can gently reposition selected areas of sagging tissue, while smooth threads focus on skin support and quality. Treatment may suit early changes in firmness and facial definition, with a more subtle result than surgery.
- Absorbable threads
- Tissue support
- Collagen stimulation
- Minimally invasive
- Lifting or smooth threads
- Different thread designs serve different purposes
- Early visible support
- Lifting threads reposition tissue during treatment
- Gradually absorbed
- PDO threads typically dissolve over approximately 6–9 months
- Allow for settling
- Swelling, bruising and tenderness may last days to weeks
PDO MAX Thread Lifts results
1 before-and-after set from Relax Med patients, published with their consent, are in the results gallery.
Dr. Steph on PDO thread lifts
This short video from Dr. Steph is on the way.
How it works
Support beneath the skin
PDO stands for polydioxanone, an absorbable material also used in surgical sutures. Threads are introduced beneath the skin through small entry points using a needle or cannula.
The effect depends on the thread selected. Barbed lifting threads engage the tissue, allowing your clinician to reposition it along a planned direction. Smooth threads do not create the same mechanical lift and are used primarily to support collagen formation and skin quality.
Lifting threads & smooth threads
- Lifting threads: Small barbs engage tissue to improve support and definition in suitable areas.
- Smooth threads: These focus on collagen stimulation and skin support rather than repositioning sagging tissue.
- Absorbable material: The threads gradually break down. How long they remain in the tissue is different from how long the visible result lasts.
Thread selection
Your clinician selects the thread type, number and placement according to your anatomy and the concern being addressed.
What it treats
Early jowling & reduced jawline definition
Lifting threads may improve definition where mild tissue descent contributes to early jowling. They do not remove excess skin or reduce substantial fat deposits.
Cheek descent & lower-face changes
Selected lifting threads can support tissue that has begun to descend. Suitability depends on skin quality, tissue weight and the degree of movement needed.
Folds around the nose & mouth
Where tissue descent contributes to smile lines or marionette folds, repositioning may soften their appearance. Lines caused mainly by volume loss or etched skin changes may need another approach.
Fine lines & reduced skin firmness
Smooth threads may be considered for selected concerns involving fine lines and skin support. Their purpose differs from the lifting effect of barbed threads.
Sessions & results
Your treatment plan
Thread treatment is often planned as one procedure followed by review. Some concerns may need a staged approach or complementary treatment.
The number of threads is determined by the area, thread design and amount of support required.
When results develop
Lifting threads can create an early visible change, but swelling and tissue tension affect the initial appearance. Allow several weeks for the area to settle before judging the result.
Collagen formation develops more gradually. Smooth threads should not be expected to produce the same immediate lift.
How long results last
Results are temporary and vary by thread type, placement, tissue quality and ongoing ageing. Thread absorption does not mean the result disappears immediately, but neither does collagen production guarantee a lasting lift.
We review your response before discussing maintenance or further treatment.
Preparation & aftercare
Before your appointment
Tell us about medications, supplements, medical conditions and previous treatments in the area. Your clinician will explain how to prepare and whether anything needs to be postponed.
Do not stop prescribed medication without advice from the prescribing clinician.
What recovery looks like
Swelling, bruising, tenderness and a feeling of tightness may occur. Temporary unevenness or puckering can also develop and should be reviewed by your clinician.
Allow flexibility around important events. Returning to everyday activities does not mean the tissue has fully healed.
Aftercare that supports healing
- Follow the instructions provided for the entry points.
- Avoid rubbing, massaging or applying pressure to treated areas unless instructed.
- Follow guidance on sleeping position and limiting excessive facial movement.
- Check with our team before resuming makeup and your usual skincare products.
- Follow advice on exercise, heat exposure and other activities.
- Check before booking facials, facial massage, dental appointments or other procedures during recovery.
When to contact us
Contact our team for increasing pain, worsening redness or swelling, fever, discharge, persistent puckering or a thread becoming visible through the skin.
Do not pull or attempt to adjust an exposed thread yourself. New facial weakness or difficulty opening your mouth also needs prompt assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Are PDO threads the same as a facelift?
No. Threads offer limited, temporary tissue support without removing excess skin. A surgical facelift provides more extensive repositioning and may be more appropriate for significant laxity.
How are threads different from dermal filler?
Filler primarily restores volume or refines shape. Lifting threads reposition selected tissue, while smooth threads focus on skin support. The right approach depends on what is causing your concern.
Do all PDO threads lift?
No. Barbed threads engage and reposition tissue. Smooth threads do not provide the same lifting action, so we explain which type is being recommended and why.
Does treatment hurt?
Local anaesthetic is commonly used. You may still feel pressure, pulling or brief discomfort, and tenderness can occur after the anaesthetic wears off.
Will I feel or see the threads?
You may initially notice tightness or awareness of the treated area. Threads should not remain visibly exposed. Contact us if a thread becomes visible, protrudes or causes persistent discomfort.
Can threads be dissolved like filler?
No. PDO gradually absorbs naturally and cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase. If a complication occurs, assessment and sometimes adjustment or removal may be needed.
Who is a suitable candidate?
Threads may suit selected cases of mild to moderate tissue descent or concerns about skin support. Significant excess skin, heavy tissue or very thin skin may limit suitability. Your medical history and expectations also matter.
Can PDO threads be combined with other treatments?
They may form part of a plan involving Botox, filler or skin treatments. Timing is important, so we coordinate the sequence and allow appropriate recovery.
Are there any risks?
Risks include infection, persistent pain, asymmetry, dimpling, visible or exposed threads and an unsatisfactory result. Less common complications can include injury to nearby structures. Your clinician will explain the risks relevant to your treatment.
Bring your concern, not a treatment name.
Whether it’s early jowling, reduced cheek support or changes in facial definition, tell us what you’d like to address. We’ll assess your skin and anatomy to help you decide whether PDO threads suit your goals.