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Novathreads vs. PDO threads: What You Need to Know

New procedures and innovations are constantly changing the landscape of aesthetic treatment and plastic surgery. In the case of anti-aging procedures, new techniques have created opportunities for men and women to shed years off their appearance without having to go under the knife. 

Thread lifts are an excellent example of how an improved or new use of existing technology is breathing new life into the anti-aging industry. While the technique may be fairly new, there are plenty of thread lift options patients can choose from. Here’s what you need to know about the two most popular options: NovaThreads and PDO threads. 

What are PDO Threads?

Polydioxanone, or PDO threads, are a type of medical-grade thread often used in surgical procedures such as open-heart surgery. Unlike other surgical threads, polydioxanone is uniquely incredibly strong yet biodegradable, safely dissolving into the patient’s body within a few months. However, as the material gradually disintegrates, it also triggers the body’s natural healing process. The body enhances collagen production around the threads, which act as scaffolding for further skin cell regeneration. In the long run, PDO threads provide patients with an anti-aging solution that continues to reduce the appearance of aging and improves over time. 

Not all PDO threads are alike. Depending on the placement of the threads as well as each individual’s treatment needs, a cosmetic specialist may recommend non-barbed or barbed threads. Consulting with experienced specialists like Dr. Doriana Cosgrove and her team can help ensure that you select the best PDO threads for your situation and receive care tailored to fulfill your unique cosmetic goals.

NovaThreads – The Newest Form of Thread Lift

Thinking about thread lifts? Chances are that you’ve heard of NovaThreads. This non-surgical facelift alternative has become one of the most popular thread lift brand names – due in part to the easy application and wide candidacy.  NovaThreads are similar to PDO thread lifts because the treatment uses the same technique in order to create a refreshed, youthful look. 

Similar to other PDO thread lifts, NovaThread treatment plans are uniquely tailored to meet each individual’s specific needs. For men and women looking to tighten skin, barbed PDO threads are used to better grasp loose skin and lift it into a better position. In instances where patients want to stimulate collagen growth, a specialist may recommend using smooth PDO threads instead. 

What Are the Different Types of PDO Suture Options, and Their Purpose?

NovaThreads and PDO threads can be split into three different categories depending on their individual goal for the skin, including screw threads, cog threads, and mono threads:

  • PDO twist threads are made of one or two intertwined threads that aim to restore volume to sunken areas of the skin.
  • PDO barbed threads use barb-like hooks that sink into the skin, providing added lift and structure to sunken or sagging areas of your face.
  • PDO smooth threads are smooth in texture and stimulate collagen production by triggering your body’s natural healing abilities, providing you with healthy, revitalized skin.

After a thorough evaluation from your provider and a detailed discussion about the areas of your face you want to address, Dr. Cosgrove can recommend the best type of PDO suture and address your areas of concern.

What to Avoid Before Your NovaThreads Procedure

One week before your NovaThreads appointment at Desert Med Aesthetics, avoid taking over-the-counter pain medications that contain blood thinners, as these can lead to unwanted complications during your procedure. These medications include Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, and aspirin. You should also avoid drinking alcohol as it thins the blood, increases inflammation, and dehydrates the skin.

However, it is recommended that you start taking arnica capsules and consume pineapple, or pineapple juice, as these can help reduce swelling and bruising in the treated area.

What Happens During Your Indian Wells NovaThread Procedure?

Your treatment will start with a thorough cleansing of your skin. Please arrive at your appointment with clean, moisturized skin, as this will limit how much cleansing we must do. After we cleanse, the treatment area is numbed, and a cannula pre-loaded with a thread is inserted into the desired location. The NovaThreads are strategically placed to stimulate collagen production where volume loss is evident, or the skin begins to fold. It can also be placed in a position to pull and tighten the skin on the neck or brows.

After the cannula is removed, the PDO thread is cut and left in position beneath the skin. You’ll typically see an immediate lift or rejuvenated appearance in the treatment area. Within one to two months, new collagen will form between the threads, and you’ll see further improvements to the lift and firmness of your skin.

After four to six months, your skin will have fully absorbed the threads, leaving behind no trace of scars or evidence of your procedure. A NovaThread treatment varies in time depending on the size, location, and number of targeted areas you want to treat, but the session can typically take about an hour.

How Long Do NovaThread (PDO) Suture Results Last?

The PDO sutures are designed to gradually dissolve into your skin; however, the resulting lift and tightening of your skin will last, on average, for 12 to 16 months. The length of time your results last varies, depending on your age, the condition of your skin, and how well you care for your skin after treatment. On average, people with poor skin elasticity may see thread lift benefits lasting one to two years.

Get Started at Desert Med Aesthetics

For years, men and women throughout the greater Palm Desert area have chosen Desert Med Aesthetics as their home for comprehensive cosmetic treatments, including injectable treatments, body contouring, laser treatments, and more. Our personalized approach to facial rejuvenation has ensured patients receive the most advanced aesthetic treatments while still providing a transformative and naturally youthful look. Discover how thread lifts with NovaThreads and PDO threads can help you achieve this goal – call our office at 760-777-8772 or schedule your consultation online today!