Looking for a face lift but not quite ready to go under the knife? Meet NovaThreads.

When patients come to my office, I often start by asking, “how can I help you today.” Immediately both men and woman start pulling back their skin, laughing, “can you just tighten this all back!?” Until now, I’ve often not had a good answer to that.

NovaThreads are dissolvable polydioxanone (PDO) threads made from the same dissolving material as stiches used during surgery. They are an excellent treatment option for patients who aren’t ready for a full face lift, but are looking for a skin tightening treatment. Whether it’s cost, downtime, reactions to anesthesia, long recovery, etc., most people have their reasons for not wanting elective cosmetic surgery. This non-surgical “lunchtime” alternative lifts and tightens saggy skin. It’s great for those patients wanting a solution, but not the side effects, cost and pain that comes with more invasive, permanent treatments.

What can I expect during the treatment?

As seen on ‘The Doctors,’ PDO threads can be combined with Botox, dermal fillers and other injectables to achieve optimal results. The procedure takes about 30 minutes or less to perform, and the side effects and recovery time are minimal. It takes about 6 months for the sutures to dissolve, but the effects of threads can last up to 12 months. 

PDO threads require no general anesthesia, hospitalization or long recovery, and give immediate results that continue to improve up to 12 weeks after the procedure. They can be performed in various areas of the face from the brows down to the neck. Threads are most commonly performed to diminish jowls, tighten the jawline, help with sagging neck skin, accentuate cheeks, plump lips and smooth nasolabial folds. 

Are there any side effects?

The threads are invisible, although can sometimes be felt under the skin in certain areas. The incision made for the entry point is typically along the hairline, unseen, and is tiny, therefore heels quickly. Some patients feel minimal discomfort such as a slight ache with chewing or smiling, but this fades over the first few weeks. Slight dimpling, bruising and swelling can be normal within the first few days, but most patients find they can return to work immediately following the procedure.

Are PDO Threads right for me?

While PDO threads are not a replacement for a full face lift where excess skin needs to be removed, they are an ideal option for those who want improvement without all the worries of a full surgical procedure.