smooth Threads

Smooth threads are comprised of the same dissolvable suture material that has been used in internal stitches for many decades, so they have been proven to be very safe to use. These sutures have anti-inflammatory effects, but they are used in cosmetic treatments because of their proven ability to induce collagen production in the skin. Smooth threads are clinically proven to make skin more firm and fight wrinkles and improve the skin’s overall appearance. The sutures dissolve very naturally over a few months while stimulating new collagen as the skin heals itself. 

Smooth threads are primarily used for collagen stimulation and do not generate a lifting effect. Barbed and molded threads are utilized when an individual is looking for lifting results.

PDO threads stimulate your body’s natural healing response by increasing collagen and elastin production. PDO threads, or sutures, are made of biocompatible materials that get safely reabsorbed by your body over time.

Treated areas may be slightly red, swollen, slightly irregular and bruised for the first 2-5 days. This will settle out. Patients may develop mild bruising and or sensitivity around the injection site. This will resolve within 7-10 days after treatment. 

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Do NOT use aspirin, motrin, advil, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, gingko biloba, fish oil, St. John’s Wort, garlic pills, or other anti-inflammatory medications for 1-2 weeks if okay with your PCP as they can increase the risk of bruising. For mild pain or headaches Tylenol is preferred.
• You may have some bruising/swelling after the procedure. Over the counter Arnica supplements (available at most supplement stores, Whole Foods, etc) have been shown to decrease bruising if you want to take them starting 3 days before your treatment.
• Avoid alcohol 1-2 days before your scheduled procedure.
• The ideal time to schedule this procedure is at LEAST 3 weeks before a big event.

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

• If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Topical numbing cream will be applied to treatment area, please arrive 15-30 minutes early. Cleansing products are available for your convenience.
• Pre-treatment photos will be taken.
• The treatment areas will be wiped with alcohol.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Anesthetic may cause some temporary swelling where injected, but this will clear over a few hours.
• Do not apply pressure to or massage the treatment area.
• Avoid strenuous workouts and alcohol for 24 hours if possible.
• DO NOT get a facial or massage in areas treated for 2 weeks after your procedure.
• Depending on the areas treated, if around the mouth, DO NOT undergo dental procedures for 3-4 weeks.
• For optimal results and to restore collagen loss, we recommend the PCA or SkinCeutical skin care products.

The benefits of smooth threads are the long-lasting skin enhancement results achieved with this treatment. However, patience is necessary when being treated with smooth threads, as results are gradual and noticeable after four weeks. The results then continue to improve for the life of the threads which is six months and lasts up to two years. Generally three treatments are recommended. 

Any individual looking to boost their skin’s firmness and collagen content as a treatment or preventatively to slow the aging process is an ideal candidate for treatment with smooth PDO threads. However, when there is a significant amount of sagging skin, other modalities may be recommended as a combination treatment, whether with barbed threads or surgical modalities.

Smooth threads are excellent on their own or can be safely combined with other treatments such as neurotoxins, dermal fillers, lifting threads, other collagen stimulators and medical grade skin care.