Hi there! I’m Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, and the proud owner of Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness, a med spa based in beautiful Point Loma, San Diego. One of the most popular questions I get from clients who are curious about PDO thread lifts is: “How long do PDO threads last?”
It’s a great question—and one that deserves a thoughtful, honest answer. So today, I want to walk you through not just how long you can expect your PDO thread results to last, but also what affects their longevity and how you can get the most from your treatment.
Whether you’re new to aesthetics or already familiar with injectables and skin rejuvenation treatments, PDO threads can be a beautiful addition to your self-care routine. Let’s dive in!
What Are PDO Threads?
First, let’s clarify what PDO threads actually are. PDO stands for polydioxanone, which is a biocompatible material that’s been safely used in surgical sutures for decades. In aesthetics, we use PDO threads to gently lift, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin—especially in areas like the cheeks, jawline, neck, and brows.
There are different types of threads used in this procedure:
- Barbed threads: Designed for lifting and contouring.
- Smooth threads: Perfect for collagen stimulation and skin texture improvement.
- Twist threads: Ideal for adding volume in delicate areas like under the eyes or around the mouth.
At Beauty Energy Exchange, I tailor every PDO thread treatment to your unique facial structure and goals. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s part of what makes this treatment so effective and natural-looking.
So, How Long Do PDO Threads Last?
This is the big question—and the answer depends on several factors, which I’ll cover in more detail below.
Generally speaking, PDO thread results can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Some clients see the lifting effects fade closer to the one-year mark, while others enjoy improvements for well over a year and a half.
Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens:
- Immediately after treatment: You’ll notice an instant lift, especially with barbed threads.
- In the following weeks: Your skin begins producing more collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which enhance the result.
- After 6–9 months: The PDO threads dissolve naturally, but your newly strengthened collagen network remains.
- At 12–18 months: Most people start to see a gradual softening of the results, at which point a maintenance session can be scheduled.
Factors That Affect How Long PDO Threads Last
There are a few key factors that determine how long your PDO thread results will stick around. Here’s what you should know:
1. Your Age and Skin Condition
Younger clients or those with more collagen may see longer-lasting results. If your skin already has some good elasticity, the threads have a stronger foundation to work with. If you have more skin laxity or thinner skin, results may be more subtle or fade a bit sooner.
2. Lifestyle Choices
I can’t stress this enough—your lifestyle plays a big role in how your skin ages and how long your thread lift lasts. Smoking, poor diet, lack of sleep, and high stress can all accelerate collagen breakdown. On the flip side, staying hydrated, eating nutrient-dense foods, protecting your skin from the sun, and getting enough sleep can extend the longevity of your results.
3. Thread Type and Placement
Not all threads are created equal. At our med spa in Point Loma, I use high-quality PDO threads that are designed for both lifting and collagen production. The type of threads I use—and exactly where they’re placed—also impacts how long your results last.
4. Number of Threads Used
Sometimes a subtle enhancement requires just a few threads, while more dramatic lifting may involve several threads in multiple vectors. The more strategic the placement, the longer the visible results can last.
5. Post-Treatment Care
After your procedure, it’s important to follow my aftercare instructions closely. This includes avoiding vigorous exercise, excessive facial movement, or dental work for about 7–10 days. Gentle care in the days following your appointment helps the threads settle properly and ensures the best outcome.
Can You Make PDO Thread Results Last Longer?
Absolutely. While no aesthetic treatment is permanent, there are several things you can do to help your results last longer.
💧 Hydrate Your Skin Inside and Out
Drinking plenty of water and using a good moisturizer can help maintain your skin’s elasticity and firmness.
🧴 Use Medical-Grade Skincare
Investing in high-quality products—like those we carry here at Beauty Energy Exchange—can keep your skin nourished and collagen-rich. Look for ingredients like retinol, peptides, and antioxidants.
🌞 Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Sun damage is one of the biggest culprits in aging skin. Use a broad-spectrum SPF every single day, even when it’s cloudy.
🧘♀️ Practice Stress Management
Chronic stress increases inflammation and cortisol, which can break down collagen. Make time for self-care, meditation, gentle movement, or anything that helps you feel grounded.
🔄 Schedule Maintenance Treatments
PDO threads can be layered over time. Some of my clients come in for touch-ups every 12–18 months, while others combine thread lifts with other treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, or Sculptra for an even more refreshed appearance.
Who Is a Good Candidate for PDO Threads?
You might be wondering if this treatment is right for you. I typically recommend PDO thread lifts for individuals who are experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity and want a non-surgical option for facial rejuvenation.
If you’re not quite ready for a facelift but still want a lifted, refreshed look, PDO threads can be a beautiful middle ground.
This treatment is also great if you:
- Want a more defined jawline or cheek contour
- Are noticing nasolabial folds or jowls
- Prefer subtle, natural-looking enhancements
- Don’t want downtime associated with surgery
During your consultation at Beauty Energy Exchange in Point Loma, I’ll take the time to assess your goals, facial structure, and skin health to make sure this treatment is the best option for you.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
PDO thread lifts are quick, comfortable, and typically take about 45–60 minutes. I use a local anesthetic to keep you relaxed and pain-free during the procedure.
Afterward, you might experience some swelling, bruising, or tightness—but most of my clients return to work and daily life within a day or two. It’s a minimally invasive way to hit “refresh” on your appearance, and the natural-looking results are one of the things my clients love most.
Let’s Talk About Your Beauty Goals
If you’ve been curious about how long PDO threads last, I hope this gave you clarity and confidence. At Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness, we believe in treatments that honor your natural beauty and support you at every stage of life.
Your beauty journey is personal, and I’m here to guide you with expertise, care, and heart. If you’re in the San Diego area, especially around Point Loma, I’d love to invite you in for a consultation to explore if PDO threads—or any of our other rejuvenating treatments—are right for you.
Let’s connect and design a treatment plan that makes you feel like your most radiant self.
Warmly,
Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM
Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness
1050 Rosecrans St, Suite 8,
San Diego, CA 92106
https://www.beautyenergyexchange.com