Myths About PDO Threads: Separating Fact from Fiction About This Popular Non-Surgical Lift
PDO thread lifting has become one of the most talked-about treatments in aesthetic medicine—and one of the most misunderstood.
Some people believe PDO threads create dramatic facelift results. Others worry they’ll look unnatural or feel the threads beneath their skin forever. Social media has only added to the confusion, with exaggerated claims on both sides.
The truth lies somewhere in the middle.
At my Henderson, NV practice, I believe patients deserve honest information so they can make confident decisions about their appearance. PDO threads can be an excellent treatment for the right patient when expectations are realistic and treatment is performed by an experienced provider.
Let’s separate the myths from the facts.
Myth #1: PDO Threads Are the Same as a Surgical Facelift
Fact: They are completely different procedures.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that PDO threads replace facelift surgery.
They don’t.
A surgical facelift removes excess skin and repositions deeper facial tissues.
PDO threads offer a subtle, non-surgical lift while stimulating your body’s natural collagen production.
For many patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, that’s exactly what they’re looking for.
“PDO threads aren’t designed to make you look like someone else. They’re designed to help you look like a refreshed version of yourself.”
— Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Myth #2: You’ll Look Overdone
Fact: Properly performed PDO thread treatments look remarkably natural.
The goal isn’t dramatic change.
The goal is gentle improvement.
Friends may notice you look refreshed.
They often can’t identify exactly why.
Natural movement and facial expression remain intact.
That’s one reason many patients appreciate thread lifting.
Myth #3: The Threads Stay in Your Face Forever
Fact: The threads gradually dissolve.
PDO stands for polydioxanone, a biocompatible material that has been used safely in medicine for decades.
The threads slowly dissolve over several months.
The collagen your body produces in response to the threads remains after the material itself has disappeared.
Myth #4: Thread Lifts Only Work Because They Pull the Skin
Fact: Collagen stimulation is one of the biggest benefits.
Many people focus only on the lifting effect.
In reality, PDO threads also encourage your body to produce new collagen.
This gradual improvement can enhance:
- Skin firmness
- Elasticity
- Texture
- Overall skin quality
The biological response often becomes just as valuable as the initial lift.
Myth #5: PDO Threads Are Painful
Fact: Most patients tolerate treatment very well.
Local anesthetic is used before thread placement.
Most patients describe feeling pressure rather than pain.
After treatment, mild tenderness or tightness is common for a few days.
Most people return to normal daily activities quickly.
Myth #6: Everyone Is a Candidate
Fact: Patient selection is everything.
PDO threads work best for patients with:
- Mild to moderate skin laxity
- Good skin quality
- Realistic expectations
- A desire for subtle improvement
Patients with significant excess skin may achieve better results with surgical procedures.
Choosing the right treatment is more important than choosing the newest treatment.
Myth #7: Results Are Immediate and Never Change
Fact: Results evolve over time.
Many patients notice an initial improvement immediately after treatment.
Over the following weeks and months, collagen production continues.
The final result develops gradually.
That gradual improvement often creates a more natural appearance than sudden dramatic changes.
Myth #8: PDO Threads Are Only for Older Patients
Fact: Adults of many ages choose thread treatments.
Some younger patients use smooth PDO threads to stimulate collagen before significant aging occurs.
Others choose threads in their 40s, 50s, and 60s as part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan.
Treatment is based on facial anatomy. Not age alone.
Myth #9: Thread Lifts Replace Every Injectable
Fact: PDO threads and injectables often complement one another.
Every treatment addresses something different.
For example:
- Botox® relaxes muscles that create expression lines.
- Dermal fillers restore lost facial volume.
- PDO threads improve support and stimulate collagen.
Many comprehensive treatment plans combine multiple approaches to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.
Myth #10: You Can Ignore Aftercare
Fact: Proper healing influences your final result.
Following your provider’s instructions helps optimize healing.
Patients are typically advised to:
- Sleep on their back for several nights.
- Avoid excessive facial manipulation.
- Limit strenuous exercise temporarily.
- Follow all post-treatment recommendations.
A few days of caution helps protect your investment.
Myth #11: Every Provider Gets the Same Results
Fact: Experience matters.
PDO thread placement is both technical and artistic.
Successful treatment requires an understanding of:
- Facial anatomy
- Tissue support
- Aging patterns
- Vector placement
- Facial balance
- Natural proportions
Small differences in technique can make a significant difference in the final result.
“The best cosmetic treatment isn’t the one people notice. It’s the one that helps you look rested, healthy, and naturally confident.”
— Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Myth #12: PDO Threads Are About Looking Younger
Fact: They’re really about looking like yourself.
Most patients don’t want to erase every line.
They don’t want to look artificial.
They simply want to look refreshed.
Less tired.
More confident.
More like the way they feel inside.
That’s often the true goal of modern aesthetic medicine.
Why I Like PDO Threads
One reason I enjoy incorporating PDO threads into facial rejuvenation is their versatility.
When appropriate, they offer patients a minimally invasive option that stimulates the body’s own collagen while providing subtle structural support.
The emphasis is never on changing someone’s face.
It’s on enhancing what is already beautiful.
The Difference Is Personal
Every face ages differently.
Every patient has different goals.
Some patients benefit from Botox.
Others from dermal fillers.
Others from smooth PDO threads.
Many benefit from a carefully customized combination.
There is no universal solution.
Only personalized treatment.
At my Henderson practice, every aesthetic consultation begins with listening—not selling. Together we evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine whether PDO threads are truly the best option for achieving natural, balanced facial rejuvenation.
Because the most beautiful cosmetic results are the ones that still look unmistakably like you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are PDO threads safe?
Yes. PDO (polydioxanone) has been used safely in medicine for decades and gradually dissolves naturally after treatment.
How long do PDO thread results last?
Results vary, but many patients enjoy improvements for 12 to 18 months depending on the type of threads used, individual collagen response, and lifestyle factors.
Do PDO threads hurt?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort because local anesthetic is used during treatment.
Can PDO threads be combined with Botox or fillers?
Yes. PDO threads are frequently combined with Botox and dermal fillers as part of a personalized facial rejuvenation plan.
Who is the best candidate for PDO threads?
Patients with mild to moderate skin laxity who want subtle, natural-looking facial rejuvenation without surgery are often excellent candidates.
About Marielaina Perrone, DDS
Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is a trusted cosmetic and family dentist in Henderson, NV, known for helping patients achieve healthy,
beautiful smiles through personalized, compassionate care. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, she combines advanced dental expertise with an artistic eye to deliver exceptional results in porcelain veneers, dental implants, smile makeovers, periodontal therapy, Botox, dermal fillers, and facial aesthetic treatments.
A graduate with honors from Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Perrone remains committed to lifelong learning and regularly pursues advanced continuing education in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and facial aesthetics. Her comprehensive approach focuses on enhancing oral health, facial harmony, and overall confidence through customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique goals.
Dr. Perrone is passionate about patient education, preventive care, and building lasting relationships founded on trust, communication, and comfort. She believes every patient deserves individualized attention and treatment that supports both long-term health and a confident smile.
Proudly serving Henderson, Green Valley, Las Vegas, Summerlin, and surrounding communities, Dr. Perrone is dedicated to providing modern, patient-centered dentistry in a welcoming environment. Outside the office, she enjoys cooking, staying active, spending time with family, and participating in community activities throughout the Las Vegas Valley.
Reviewed for Clinical Accuracy
This article has been written and clinically reviewed by Marielaina Perrone, DDS, to ensure it reflects current evidence-based dentistry and the personalized philosophy of care practiced at her Henderson, Nevada office.
Last Reviewed: July 2026