Revealing the Science Behind Facial Sagging and the Power of PDO Threading

At Dr. Leah Clinic, we are a Centre of Excellence for a range of thread-lifting treatments having performed more face-lift threading treatments than any other UK clinic. One of our most sought-after treatments is PDO Threads, known for their transformative effects on sagging skin. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the top 4 questions that have piqued your curiosity on PDO thread lifts. But before we dive into the answers, let's explore the science behind areas of facial sagging due to age, weight loss, and even hereditary factors like heavily hooded eyelids.

The Science Behind Facial Sagging

Facial sagging is a natural part of the aging process, influenced by a complex interplay of factors that can be further enhanced by factors such as weight loss. While genetics play a significant role in determining our facial structure and how it ages, several key elements contribute to sagging over time:

• Collagen Depletion: Collagen, the structural protein responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity, naturally diminishes with age. Reduced collagen production leads to sagging and wrinkles. This sagging can happen anywhere on the face from eyelids to the lower face and cheeks.
• Elastin Loss: Elastin, another protein that helps maintain skin's flexibility, also decreases over time. As elastin wanes, skin becomes less resilient and prone to sagging.
• Gravity's Effect: Gravity continually pulls on the skin throughout our lives, causing tissues to gradually descend. For example, as we age the fat pads that sit on our cheeks begin to drop leading to flatter cheeks and the formation of heavier marionette lines.
• Volume Loss: As we get older, we experience fat loss in various facial areas and so lose the plumping and supporting effect that facial fat provides. This contributes  to a hollowed appearance and sagging skin. Additionally, if rapid weight loss occurs the skin is not given enough time to shrink and tighten, which can result in sagging skin on the face.
• Bone Loss: As we get older even our facial bones lose their volume and recede which can increase facial sagging from depleting bone structure.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to UV radiation and other environmental factors accelerates skin aging, exacerbating sagging and wrinkles.

Whether it's the gradual sagging of cheeks, the development of jowls, or the appearance of heavily hooded eyelids, facial sagging can impact our self-esteem and how we perceive ourselves. This is where PDO thread lifts come into play.

How Does a PDO Thread Lift Work?

PDO, or Polydioxanone, thread lifts are designed to combat the effects of gravity and aging on the skin. The procedure involves the use of fine, absorbable threads made from PDO material, a substance commonly used in medical sutures. These threads are skillfully inserted beneath the skin's surface in a precise manner.

Once inserted, the PDO threads serve a dual purpose:

Immediate Lift: The threads have a mechanical lifting effect, physically elevating sagging skin tissues. This immediate lift is particularly noticeable in areas like the cheeks, jawline, and neck, where the skin tends to lose its firmness over time.

Collagen Stimulation: PDO threads stimulate collagen production over time. Collagen is a natural protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. As the threads dissolve, they trigger the body's natural collagen-building response, resulting in firmer, smoother skin in the treated areas. The long-term benefits of PDO thread lifts become more apparent as collagen production increases. Over several months, you'll notice improved skin texture, increased firmness, and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. The extent of improvement can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as age, skin condition, and the number of threads used. It's essential to have a detailed consultation with your provider to discuss your specific goals and expectations.

The combination of these two effects makes PDO thread lifts an effective and natural-looking solution for addressing signs of aging without surgery.

Are PDO Thread Lifts Safe?

Safety is a paramount concern when considering any cosmetic procedure. PDO thread lifts have a strong safety profile when performed by a skilled and experienced practitioner. Here's why:

Biocompatible Material: PDO threads are made from a biocompatible material, which means they are well-tolerated by the body. Over time, these threads naturally dissolve, leaving no permanent traces.

Minimally Invasive: PDO thread lifts are minimally invasive, reducing the risks associated with major surgical procedures. They are performed under local anesthesia, and patients experience minimal discomfort and downtime.

FDA Approval: PDO threads have gained approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific indications, further confirming their safety and efficacy when used by trained professionals.

To ensure your safety, choose a reputable and experienced practitioner who specializes in PDO thread lifts. They will conduct a thorough consultation, discuss any potential risks, and provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs.

Do PDO Thread Lifts Work?

The effectiveness of PDO threads has been well-documented by countless satisfied patients. However, it's essential to have realistic expectations about the results.

Immediate Results: You'll notice an immediate lift after the procedure, providing a more youthful appearance. This effect is temporary but can last for several months.

Can PDO Thread Lifts Lift Jowls?

Yes, PDO threading is effective in lifting jowls and addressing sagging in the lower face. The threads can be strategically placed to target the jowls, providing a noticeable improvement in jawline definition and overall facial contour.

PDO threads can be customised to each patient's unique needs. Your practitioner will assess your facial structure and create a treatment plan tailored to lift and rejuvenate the jowl area. Many patients are delighted with the results, as PDO thread lifts offer a non-surgical alternative to facelift surgery for jowl correction. Aside from jowls a PDO Thread Lift can lift all areas of the face that are beginning to sag such as drooping eyelids or cheeks.

In conclusion, PDO threads are a safe and effective option for those seeking facial rejuvenation without surgery. By addressing common questions about their mechanism of action, safety profile, efficacy, and their ability to lift jowls, we hope to provide you with valuable insights into this innovative procedure.

If you are considering a PDO thread lift, you can book a consultation here with one of our industry-leading doctors to explore how this non-invasive treatment can help you achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.