The skin loses its elasticity and volume as you age, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Fortunately, various nonsurgical options can help combat these aging signs, such as PDO thread lifts and dermal fillers. Both treatments help improve the appearance of the skin. However, they work differently and suit different concerns. 

What Are PDO Thread Lifts?

Polydioxanone or PDO thread lifts are a minimally invasive treatment that tightens sagging skin using dissolvable thread lifts. The threads are inserted into the skin using a small needle and gently pulled to lift the skin. Over time, they dissolve and leave behind a supportive collagen structure to keep the skin tight and lifted.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that increase volume to areas of the face with less volume caused by aging. Hyaluronic acid is what makes dermal fillers. It is a substance that occurs naturally in the body to plump and hydrate the skin. 

Area of Concern

PDO thread lifts are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate sagging in the face, jowls, or neck. They improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They can also stimulate collagen production to improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness. Dermal fillers fill in wrinkles and lines, enhance the cheeks and lips, and restore volume to sunken or hollow areas of the face. 

Results 

PDO thread lifts provide immediate results that continue improving as the threads stimulate collagen production. The results can last up to two years. Dermal fillers also provide immediate results. However, they typically only last for six to 18 months.

Treatment and Recovery Time

PDO thread lifts can take about an hour to complete. It requires minimal downtime. Most people can resume their normal activities within a day or two. Dermal fillers take less time, usually about 30 minutes to complete. They also require minimal downtime. However, some people may experience mild bruising or swelling at the injection site for a few days.

Cost 

PDO thread lifts are more expensive than dermal fillers. However, they also provide longer-lasting results. The treatment cost depends on the area and extent of treatment. Generally, PDO thread lifts are a more significant investment upfront. However, they can be more cost-effective over time since they require fewer touch-up treatments. 

Safety

PDO thread lifts and dermal fillers are safe when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. However, they have risks and potential side effects like any medical treatment. These may include bruising, swelling, nerve damage, and infection. Choose a trained and experienced practitioner for the procedure to minimize your chances of experiencing complications.

Maintenance

Dermal fillers require regular touch-up treatments to maintain the results. The frequency of these treatments depends on the type of filler used and the treatment area. Generally, fillers in areas with more movement, such as the lips, require more frequent touch-ups than those parts with less motion, like the cheeks.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Choosing between PDO thread lifts and dermal fillers depends on your concerns and goals. A PDO thread lift may be the right choice if you have mild to moderate sagging in your face, neck, or jowls. 

But if you lose volume in your lips, cheeks, or nasolabial folds, a dermal filler may be the right choice. Consult a qualified and experienced practitioner to discuss your concerns and goals for determining the ideal treatment.

For more about PDO thread lifts and derma fillers, visit SDIM & Spa at our office in Poway, California. Call (858) 208-3676 to book an appointment today.