PDO Thread Lift & Rejuvenation

The no-knife solution to sagging skin, structural support and long-lasting results.

What are THREADS?

PDO threads are specialized, absorbable sutures that are preloaded into what is known as a hypodermic needle or cannula. PDO threads are meticulously placed within the skin to create scaffolding, repositioning and suspension to aging and sagging tissues. A PDO (polydioxanone) thread, is a morphologically modified, synthetic, absorbable surgical suture composed of polydioxanone which serves to induce collagen and so offer lift and contouring.

The actual placement of the threads requires a very specific and extensive training as well as years of experience with cannula injection technique, to ensure safe delivery and prevent potentially permanent complications. Dr Zwanepoel is one of the few aesthetic physicians in Canada trained to perform threads. Non-physician providers are not allowed to train on, or perform this treatment in Canada, and may not be able to give you accurate information in regards to patient selection, indication.

How do they work?

Threads are essentially sutures are placed within the skin to lift and or tighten the treatment area. They are made from absorbable material called PDO(Polydiaxone) that has  been safely used in surgical procedures, particularly heart surgery, for over 40 years. While in the skin threads stimulate supportive collagen networks within the skin over 4-6 months, where after the thread itself will be completely reabsorbed by a process in the body called hydrolysis. The effect of the newly formed collagen usually lasts between 12-15 months, or longer in some cases. Threads can be used to as a solo treatment, or in combination with Captivating’s Facials, injectables and lasers to compliment and optimize results.

Before After

Benefits

Threads can safely and effectively applied anywhere in the body, with the most commonly treated areas are face, neck, décolletage, inner arm, knees and stretch marks.

  • Jowls and saggy skin
  • Non-surgical brow lift
  • Non-surgical lip and nose augmentation
  • Jawline contouring
  • Neck lines and wrinkles
  • Décolletage lines, wrinkles and saggy skin
  • Knee and inner arm crepey and saggy skin

*Certain skin types may need to follow a pre-treatment skincare regimen in order to minimize risk of hyperpigmentation, and to ensure optimal results.

Process & Treatment

Typically, the treatment is completed within a single session. The use of threads is what is referred to as “off label” use for PDO sutures. Not every patient is a candidate for PDO threads, and as your safety and results are our priority this is a treatment that requires a formal consultation with Dr Zwanepoel. During the consultation Dr Zwanepoel will ensure that you are well informed indications, risks and benefits before deciding upon the treatment, or the treatment date.

The lasting effects of the treatment will depend on factors such as pre-existing medical conditions, the use of certain prescription and over the counter medications, genetic predisposition, compliance to a targeted skincare regimen as well as adherence to sun smart behaviour. Effects are long lasting, but maintenance is usually needed around 12-18 months after the initial treatment.

15-60 minutes

At Captivating Skin Health and Wellness, the first step is to book a consultation with Dr Zwanepoel to discuss the addition of threads to your treatment plan. During this consultation a brief medical and relevant aesthetic history will be taken. You will have the chance to discuss your treatment concerns, your treatment goals, your fears and concerns in regard to the actual treatment itself. Your full treatment plan, along with any expected maintenance will then be discussed.

A detailed series of photographs will be taken at every visit to compare your results to your baseline pictures, as well as monitoring progression of results.

After booking our friendly team will send you a link to our patient portal, which allows you to complete the necessary forms in the comfort and safety of your own home. Once you arrive for your appointment, our front office team will get a set of baseline photos.  Dr Zwanepoel will ensure you understand the procedure and that you skin is optimized to ensure best results.  The area is meticulously cleaned and prepped to ensure a sterile technique. Dr Zwanepoel will plan out the treatment based on your integral concerns. As mentioned above, the actual placement of the threads requires a thorough anatomical extensive training as well as years of experience with cannula injection technique to ensure safe delivery and prevent potentially permanent complications. Dr Zwanepoel is one of the few aesthetic physicians in Canada that are trained to perform PDO threads. Non-physician providers are not allowed to train on, or perform this treatment in Canada, and may not be able to give you accurate information in regard to patient selection, indication, treatment or possible risks and complications.

Photographs may be done immediately after the procedure. You will also receive specific after-care directions. The most important of these being hydration, avoiding direct sun exposure, compliance to SPF application and re-application and continuing a supportive skincare regimen. Antibiotic coverage may be prescribed as per the discretion of Dr Zwanepoel.

Mineral makeup can be applied right after the treatment.

Pricing for thread procedures will only be discussed in office during your consultation.