PDO (polydioxanone): what it is and its use in facial threads

PDO stands for polydioxanone, an absorbable synthetic polymer that has been used for decades in surgical sutures. In orofacial harmonization, it is the most common material in absorbable threads, which are inserted into the subcutaneous tissue with a needle or a cannula.

In the body, polydioxanone is broken down by hydrolysis over a few months. During that time, the thread causes a tissue reaction that stimulates collagen production around it, which brings PDO close to the concept of a collagen biostimulator.

What types of PDO thread exist?

Broadly, threads fall into two groups:

• Smooth or spiral, used mainly for collagen stimulation and to improve skin quality.
• Barbed or cogged, which anchor in the tissue and allow some repositioning, used as thread lifts.

The choice of type, gauge, length and vector belongs to the qualified professional, according to the assessment and the rules of their professional council.

Precautions and limits

Threads do not replace surgery for marked laxity, and the repositioning effect tends to be modest and temporary. Possible complications include swelling, bruising, surface irregularity, thread extrusion, asymmetry and infection. Patient selection is an essential part of the result.

Also known as: polydioxanone, PDO thread.