Are PDO Thread Lifts Safe? Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Noticing the early signs of aging in the mirror—like sagging skin, drooping cheeks, or soft jowls—can feel frustrating, especially if you’re not quite ready for surgery. Maybe you’ve tried serums or fillers, but the results were too subtle or too short-lived. If you’re researching ways to get that refreshed, lifted look without the downtime or risks of surgery, you’re not alone.

At LA Ageless Medical Aesthetics, many clients arrive curious about PDO thread lifts but cautious about thread lift safety. Is it painful? Does it actually work? What are the risks?

Let’s break it all down so you can make an informed decision.

What Is a PDO Thread Lift?

A PDO thread lift is a non-surgical facelift that uses dissolvable sutures made of polydioxanone (PDO)—a material widely used in medical procedures like cardiac surgery and wound stitching. These cosmetic threads are inserted into specific layers of your skin to gently lift sagging tissue and stimulate natural collagen production. At LA Ageless Medical Aesthetics,

The result? Firmer, more youthful-looking skin that evolves over time as your own body builds structure from within. Unlike more invasive surgical options, PDO thread lifts involve minimal downtime and no general anesthesia, making them a favorite for those seeking a subtle refresh rather than a dramatic overhaul.

What Are the Risks of PDO Thread Lifts?

While a PDO thread lift is considered safe when performed by a trained provider, like any medical aesthetic procedure, it does carry some potential risks and side effects. Being informed helps you weigh the benefits against your comfort level.

Possible risks include:

• Bruising and swelling – Common, especially in the first few days after treatment.
• Tenderness or soreness – Usually resolves within a week.
• Infection – Rare but possible. Proper hygiene and post-care minimize this risk.
• Thread visibility – In rare cases, threads may be felt or slightly seen under thin skin.
• Asymmetry or irregularity – Often minor and temporary, but adjustments can be made.
• Skin puckering – Temporary rippling can occur at the insertion site.
• Allergic reaction or prolonged inflammation – Extremely rare with medical-grade PDO material, but not impossible.

Most complications are mild and self-limiting, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced aesthetic professional. Choosing a licensed provider and following all aftercare instructions will ensure the best outcome.

Benefits of PDO Thread Lifts

What makes a PDO thread lift so appealing? The advantages go beyond skin deep:

• Collagen stimulation – Triggers your skin to produce collagen, leading to longer-term improvements in firmness and texture.
• Instant, natural-looking lift – Provides immediate contour enhancement while collagen production works over time.
• Minimally invasive – No scalpels, stitches, or extended recovery time—just local numbing and a few strategically placed threads.
• Low downtime – Most people return to daily activities within 24–48 hours.
• Customizable treatment – Threads can be placed to target the cheeks, jawline, brows, and more.
• Long-lasting results – Results typically last 12–18 months, depending on your skin and lifestyle.

For those tired of short-term fixes and unsure about going under the knife, this treatment offers the perfect middle ground.

Who Is This Best For?

A PDO thread lift works well for a range of people who want to restore skin firmness and facial definition. It’s ideal for:

• Adults in their 30s to 60s who are experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity.
• People with early signs of aging, such as jowls, sagging cheeks, or neck laxity.
• Those wanting facial rejuvenation without committing to surgery.
• People looking for subtle, natural enhancements rather than dramatic transformations.
• Anyone with a busy lifestyle who prefers minimal downtime.

If you’re feeling “in-between” on the treatment scale—wanting more than skincare but not ready for surgery—a PDO thread lift could be your answer.

What to Expect (Process, Timeline, Results)

Understanding what happens before, during, and after a PDO thread lift helps you feel confident moving forward.

Pre-Treatment Prep

Everything begins with a consultation where your provider evaluates your skin, listens to your goals, and outlines what’s achievable. You’ll be advised to:

• Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications for 24–48 hours before the procedure.
• Come in with clean skin and no makeup.

Treatment Day

• Duration: Appointments last between 30–60 minutes.
• Comfort level: A topical numbing cream is applied. Most patients feel only light pressure or tugging.
• Procedure: Threads are inserted under the skin using a tiny needle or cannula and gently tightened to lift the skin.

Recovery & Downtime

• Mild swelling and redness may occur for 24–72 hours.
• Minimal bruising is possible but temporary.
• Avoid strenuous activity, high facial movements (like big yawns), and facials for about a week.

Results Timeline

• Immediate lift is noticeable on the same day.
• Full effects develop over 4–6 weeks as collagen builds around the threads.
• Results typically last 12–18 months, with maintenance depending on lifestyle and skin aging.

FAQs or Myths Debunked

Is a PDO thread lift painful?

With numbing cream applied, most clients feel mild pressure but not pain. The procedure is designed to be comfortable.

Are PDO thread lifts safe?

Yes, thread lift safety is supported by decades of medical use. The threads are FDA-cleared and naturally absorbed by your body over time.

How does this differ from dermal fillers?

Fillers add volume; PDO thread lift in Beverly Hills, CA. Reposition tissue and trigger collagen for a lifting and tightening effect.

Can you combine PDO threads with other treatments?

Yes, they pair well with fillers, Botox, and skin treatments for enhanced facial rejuvenation.

Will I be able to feel the threads?

Initially, some clients feel slight tightness, but the threads become undetectable within weeks.

Ready to Learn More About the Benefits and Safety?

If you’re looking for a treatment that lifts, tightens, and improves your skin’s structure without surgery, a PDO thread lift in Beverly Hills, CA, might be right for you. It’s safe, subtle, and offers natural-looking results that evolve beautifully over time.

Learn More About PDO Thread Safety & Benefits and schedule your personalized consultation with LA Ageless Medical Aesthetics today.

A Smoother, Lifted Look—Without the Surgery

A PDO thread lift offers real results with less commitment, no scalpel, and minimal downtime. From improving facial contours to stimulating collagen, it’s one of today’s most effective non-surgical facelift solutions.

To explore whether it’s the right fit for your aesthetic goals, contact us and speak with an experienced provider who understands both the science and artistry of facial rejuvenation.