PDO Thread Lifting
A non-surgical procedure using dissolvable PDO threads, considered only after consultation, with risks and limits explained first.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is PDO thread lifting?
PDO threads are fine, dissolvable sutures made from polydioxanone. They are placed under the skin through a fine needle or cannula. They are medical devices, not medicines.
The threads are designed to reposition soft tissue to a modest degree. As they dissolve over several months, they may also stimulate the skin's own collagen production.
This is a procedure with real limits. Results are modest compared with surgery, they are temporary, and individual results vary. Dr Marie-Claire does not perform surgery and will refer you if a surgical option would better suit your concerns.
How does it work?
Threads are placed in the layer under the skin along a planned direction. Some threads have small cogs or barbs, while others are smooth, and the type is chosen for the area.
The threads may support the tissue in a slightly different position for a period of time. Over the following months the threads dissolve, and any ongoing effect is thought to relate to the skin's own response.
Dr Marie-Claire chooses the type, number and placement of threads for your anatomy. The plan, the expected limits and the risks are explained before you decide on anything.
- Threads are made of PDO, a material that dissolves in the body over months.
- They are placed through a fine needle or cannula under local comfort measures.
- Effects are modest and temporary, and they vary between people.
- The procedure may be repeated, and this is discussed individually.
Who is it for?
Thread lifting may be considered by adults who have mild to moderate skin laxity or changes in jawline or neck contour, and who understand the limits of a non-surgical procedure. Dr Marie-Claire will assess whether it is a suitable option for you.
It is not suitable for everyone, and some people are better served by another approach or by referral for a surgical opinion. Treatment is provided to adults aged 18 and over only.
Thread lifting may need to be deferred, or may not be suitable, in some situations. These include an active skin infection or cold sore in the area, pregnancy or breastfeeding, a tendency to keloid or raised scarring, bleeding or clotting disorders and some blood-thinning medications, autoimmune conditions, and very lax skin where surgery would better suit. Dr Marie-Claire will go through these with you at consultation, and the list is not complete.
What to expect
This is a higher-risk non-surgical procedure, so the consultation comes first and there is a period for you to consider the information before deciding.
- You receive written information on benefits, limits, risks and alternatives.
- A cooling-off and consideration period applies before the procedure is booked.
- Written consent is obtained before treatment.
- Tell Dr Marie-Claire about medications, supplements, bleeding history and recent treatments.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Your face and neck are assessed again, the plan is confirmed, and consent is checked before any threads are placed.
- The skin is cleansed, and comfort measures are used for the treatment areas.
- Threads are placed under the skin through a fine needle or cannula.
- Treatment time depends on the number and type of threads used.
- You will receive written aftercare instructions before you leave.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Swelling, bruising, tenderness and a feeling of tightness are common afterwards. Dr Marie-Claire will explain what is expected and when to contact the practice.
- Avoid facial massage, dental work and strenuous activity for the period advised.
- Sleeping on your back with your head raised may be advised for a short time.
- Contact the practice promptly if you notice increasing pain, redness, heat or a visible thread.
- A review is arranged to check how the area is settling.
Timelines and recovery vary between individuals. Individual results vary.
Frequently asked questions
How much does PDO thread lifting cost in Melbourne?
The cost depends on the treatment area, the number and type of threads and whether a review or repeat session is needed. Your costs are set out in a written plan after consultation with Dr Marie-Claire, so you can consider them during the consideration period before deciding on any procedure.
How long do the results last?
The threads dissolve over several months, and the effect on soft tissue position is temporary. Any ongoing change relates to how your own skin responds, and this varies between people. Dr Marie-Claire will explain realistic expectations at consultation, including the limits of a non-surgical procedure. Individual results vary, and no outcome is guaranteed.
What are the risks and side effects?
Common effects include bruising, swelling, tenderness and tightness. Other risks include asymmetry, dimpling or skin puckering, thread visibility or movement through the skin, infection, and, rarely, injury to a nerve or blood vessel. These risks are explained in writing and discussed in full at consultation, before you decide whether to proceed.
How does thread lifting compare with surgery?
Results from threads are generally more modest and shorter-lived than surgery, and they suit milder concerns. Dr Marie-Claire does not perform surgery. If your concerns are more likely to be addressed by a surgical option, she will say so and refer you to an appropriate colleague, rather than proceeding with a procedure that may not suit you.
Is thread lifting right for me?
It depends on your anatomy, your skin, your medical history and what you would like to address. It is one of several approaches Dr Marie-Claire may discuss, alongside skincare and energy-based treatments. A consultation in St Kilda is where suitability, risks, limits and alternatives are discussed before anything is planned.
Commonly treated concerns
Skin Laxity: Neck and Jawline
A clear guide to loss of firmness in the lower face and neck, and the non-surgical approaches a doctor may consider.
Learn more
Skin Ageing
How the skin, fat, muscle and bone of the face change over time, and the approaches a doctor may discuss with you.
Learn moreImportant information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.