Around 89% of Canadians aren't 100% happy with what they see in the mirror. Chances are, you fall into that category.

If your biggest concern is wrinkles and sagging skin, then you might be thinking about getting cosmetic procedures done. But many involve going under the knife, which you might feel uncomfortable about.

Thankfully, there's something you can try that doesn't require surgery: barbed PDO threads. It might sound scary, but it's actually an almost painless procedure that helps rejuvenate your skin.

Are you interested in hearing more? Then keep reading. We'll explain what PDO threads are, how thread lifts work, and more.

What Are PDO Threads?

"PDO" stands for "polydioxanone" and PDO threads are actually a type of medical-grade thread made of proteins.

Over 30 years ago, they were first used for surgeries since they're even thinner than hair. Also, they dissolve over time, which means patients wouldn't have to go back in to get sutures removed.

In their original medical usage, surgeons used PDO threads to close up wounds. Because of this, they're FDA-approved, which means they're safe for cosmetic procedures.

There are three types of PDO threads: barbed, smooth, and twisted (screw). Barbed PDO threads are typically used for heavier effects (such as non-surgical face lifts), while smooth PDO threads are used for slight plumping. Twisted (screw) PDO threads are usually used for getting more volume beneath your skin.

The PDO threads we use at Albany Clinic is Health Canada approved under Licence No. 87496. Click here for more information

How Does a PDO Thread Lift Work?

Now that you know what PDO treads are, we can move onto explain how a PDO thread lift works. This is a non-surgical procedure, which means you don't have to go under the knife to reap the benefits.

First, the professional will numb the area with lidocaine around 15 minutes before your appointment so you'll have a more comfortable time. Once you're adequately numb, they'll put the threads in with a fine needle; these can go in either the skin, muscle, or subcutaneous fat.

In turn, this will elicit a natural response from your body. This is because the insertion is like a small injury, which prompts your body to increase production of collagen, elastin, and fibrin.

The result? Smoother and plumper skin.

In the case of barbed PDO threads, they can elicit stronger responses from your body, which give similar results to a surgical face lift.

a PDO thread lift takes around 30 minutes to perform. So including the numbing done before the actual treatment, an appointment takes less than an hour to complete.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Because PDO thread lifts are non-surgical, there are fewer, less serious side effects associated with it. Some common side effects include:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Irritation
• Edema
• Infection

So long as you follow your doctor's instructions and take it easy right after your treatment, you shouldn't have any complications at all.

How Long Is the Downtime?

On average, patients take around 2 days off work when getting a PDO thread lift. This is because they may experience a little bit of pain, redness, and bruising afterward. The 2 days allows them to recover a bit before going back to work.

The downtime is a bit longer than other non-surgical cosmetic procedures; usually, those have little to no downtime. But because you essentially have a bunch of mini wounds, this is why you need to spend a little longer in recovery.

Typically, you can resume normal activities immediately if you wish. However, you should avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks if possible. This is because these activities might exacerbate or cause more redness and bruising.

When Do You See Results?

The procedure depends on the body's natural reaction to the PDO threads. While you might see some instant results right after your appointment, it can take up to 6 months for you to see the full effects; usually 4 to 6.

During this time, your body will produce new collagen in between the PDO threads, which will both lift and tighten your skin. Over time, they'll also dissolve and be absorbed by your body, so you don't need to have the threads removed. This means you won't have any scars either.

In the end, you'll have a more youthful, rejuvenated look.

How Long Does a Thread Lift Last?

Again, how long the PDO thread lift results last depends on your own body. Usually, they can last anywhere from 6 to 30 months, with an average of around 21 months.

Your physical status and the environment you live in will affect how long your thread lift lasts.

PDO Thread Lift Cost

The cost of a PDO thread lift will depend on many factors. For example, where you're located, how much experience the doctor has, the type of threads used, and number of threads used, and area of treatment will affect the cost.

Here at Albany Laser & Cosmetic Center, our pricing is as follows:

• $150 for normal single threads
• $600 for special double threads

This doesn't include other costs, such as the consultation fee ($50). However, if you decide to move forward with the treatment after your consultation, that $50 will be applied toward your procedure.

Consider Getting PDO Threads

After reading all about barbed PDO threads, perhaps you're now convinced of its wonderful benefits, especially when compared to a regular face lift. For people who don't want to spend a fortune, are afraid of pain, and don't want long downtime after procedures, then PDO threads are perfect for you.

So what are you waiting for? It's time you speak with a professional to see if it's the right treatment for you.

Are you interested in a PDO threading face lift? Then get in touch with us now to book an appointment.