PDO Threads as an Alternative in Nonsurgical Procedures in Facial Rejuvenation
Paper info
Publication year: 2020
Journal name: Facial Plastic Surgery
The increasing interest in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures has highlighted the necessity for non-surgical alternatives to facial rejuvenation. Traditional surgical rhytidectomy, while effective, comes with risks of complications and long recovery times. This has led to a growing demand for less invasive options that can still provide significant aesthetic improvements. Thread lifting using polydioxanone, or PDO threads, offers a promising solution. This technique not only ensures minimal downtime but also has low complication rates, making it an appealing choice for many patients interested in facial rejuvenation. The objective of this paper is to examine the viability of PDO threads as a non-surgical facial rejuvenation option. It addresses the mechanisms behind their effectiveness, the procedures involved, appropriate patient selection, and the potential outcomes that can be expected. To conduct this examination, the study design involved a comprehensive review of existing literature related to PDO thread usage and its clinical applications in the field of facial rejuvenation. The population studied primarily consisted of patients aged between 40 and 50 years, who exhibited mild signs of aging. Notably, patients with excessive skin laxity or unrealistic expectations were excluded from this analysis. The intervention itself involves the insertion of PDO threads, which are synthetic absorbable sutures, into targeted areas of the face. This method not only provides an immediate lifting effect but also promotes collagen production, which is vital for enhancing skin texture and elasticity. Regarding the outcomes assessed, the study looked into complications, the effectiveness of aesthetic results, and patient satisfaction levels as reported across various studies and follow-ups. The results of using PDO threads have shown promising effects. They stimulate collagen synthesis during their absorption period, which typically lasts about four to six months. As the threads undergo hydrolysis, patients experience enhanced skin texture and elasticity. This technique effectively addresses common aging concerns, including jowls and nasolabial folds. Complications reported are generally mild, consisting of bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and skin dimpling. These issues typically resolve without the need for additional intervention. Initial levels of patient satisfaction have been favorable; however, it is worth noting that long-term effectiveness remains to be comprehensively evaluated. The comparison between PDO threads and non-absorbable sutures indicates a clear advantage for the former. Non-absorbable options often lead to higher complication rates, and patient dissatisfaction due to challenging removal processes. In conclusion, PDO threads offer cosmetic benefits with low morbidity and minimal downtime, making them an attractive option for patients looking for facial rejuvenation without the need for invasive surgery. Successful outcomes are contingent upon proper patient selection, a deep understanding of facial anatomy, and a comprehensive knowledge of vector techniques during the thread insertion process. While this paper highlights several strengths, such as the promising balance between aesthetic results and minimal invasiveness of PDO threads, it also acknowledges limitations. Many studies reviewed lack long-term follow-up data that could provide valuable insights into the sustainability of results. Additionally, patient satisfaction can be subjective, complicating efforts to assess overall effectiveness accurately. Looking ahead, there is a call for future studies to focus on standardized protocols that incorporate long-term monitoring of aesthetic outcomes and complication rates. Furthermore, exploring the quantitative impact of PDO threads across different skin types and demographics would deepen our understanding and application of this technique to diverse patient populations. Clinically, the findings endorse the use of PDO thread lifting procedures within aesthetic practices as a legitimate tool for non-surgical facial rejuvenation. A well-executed PDO thread treatment can enhance the array of options available to practitioners, serving as either an alternative or an adjunct to traditional surgical interventions, thereby improving patient care and satisfaction in facial aesthetic services.