Understanding PDO Threads: A Holistic Esthetician’s Perspective
By: Lead Esthetician, Devin Shay
As your holistic skin advocate, I know that navigating the world of non-surgical cosmetic procedures can be overwhelming. One treatment you may have heard about recently is PDO threads. Short for polydioxanone threads, this procedure uses synthetic, dissolvable sutures that are gently placed under the skin. While these threads are commonly used in the medical field to close wounds, their strength and absorbable nature have made them popular in the world of aesthetic medicine for lifting and tightening the skin.
Let's break down what they are first. PDO threads are often used to create a subtle lifting effect, especially in areas like the jawline, cheeks, and hairline. By forming a supportive structure under the skin, they help reposition tissue and may even encourage your body to produce more collagen—a key player in maintaining firm, youthful-looking skin. It's important to understand, though, that PDO threads don’t act like fillers; they don’t add volume but rather create lift and structure, which can be ideal for someone looking for a more natural enhancement.
One of the reasons PDO threads have become so trendy is because of their relatively short recovery time compared to other procedures, like dermal fillers or surgical facelifts. Most people don’t feel the threads once they’re in place, and the treatment is considered minimally invasive. However, it's worth noting that PDO threads results may vary based on your unique facial anatomy and lifestyle habits.
That said, I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t mention the possible downsides. Though rare, there have been cases of prolonged bruising, infection, and irritation. Some clients experience skin dimpling or even threads that migrate or “spit” through the skin. Asymmetry can also occur, particularly as the threads dissolve at different rates depending on muscle movement and other personal factors. These potential side effects, especially in a holistic space, give me pause.
At the end of the day, my goal is to empower you to make informed, aligned choices for your skin. I’m always here to support your goals in the most natural and nurturing way possible. While PDO threads might be a good fit for some, I personally lean toward caution, especially when working toward long-term, holistic skin health. One of my clients tried PDO threads but ultimately felt they weren’t right for her, especially as she transitioned away from injectables. Your path is yours to choose, and the Holistic Esthetician team at Shop Good is always here to walk it with you—judgment-free, and full of love.