PDO Thread Lift and Smoothing
Information & Consent
Definition: Thread Lifting is a minimally invasive procedure that uses biodegradable, absorbable lifting and smoothing barbed sutures placed under the skin in the subcutaneous fat layer. I use PDO (Polydioxanone) threads,which break down over 6 months while stimulating new collagen and fibrin production. Thread lifting is indicated for the temporary improvement of the appearance of skin laxity (sagging skin) and/or texture (wrinkle reduction). This leads to an increase in skin tightening and smoothing of wrinkles.
What to Expect: Thread lifting procedure involves the use of small amounts of injectable anesthesia (lidocaine w/ epi), and the use of a needle to make a small self-healing pilot hole in the skin to introduce a small needle or cannula that is preloaded with a thread. Multiple threads are used during a single treatment. Depending on the area treated, the procedure can take 5 minutes to 45 minutes. Often numerous treatments are required to achieve the desired results. It can take up to 4-6 months to appreciate the full benefit of the treatment. On average, results can last 6-18 months or more depending on area treated and number of threads used.
Guarantees: Since the practice of aesthetic medicine is not an exact science, there cannot be any guarantee or warranty expressed or implied on the results that may be obtained. No guarantees can be made either in the degree of improvement or duration of improvement. It is also possible that minimal improvement may be attained.
Risks: Every procedure involves a certain amount of risk. It is important to understand the risks and potential complications involved in order to make an informed decision.
Discomfort: Mild to moderate discomfort is expected during procedure. Afterwards, you will likely have some tenderness in the area treated. To minimize discomfort, lidocaine with epinephrine will be used as a local anesthetic.
Bruising/swelling: Mild to moderate bruising and swelling are to be expected and may persist for up to 2 weeks. In very rare instances a severe unilateral swelling of the face with redness can occur, and may last up to 1 week. Skin infection/scarring is rare but a possibility with any injection into the skin. If you experience any signs or symptoms of infection, notify me immediately. Also let me know if you have a history of skin infections or abnormal scarring (hypertrophic or keloids) prior to procedure.
Bleeding: It is possible, although rare, to experience localized bleeding during or after the procedure. Treatment to drain accumulated blood (hematoma) is extremely rare. Do not take aspirin or anti inflammatory medication (Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Ibuprofen) for 14 days prior to your procedure, as this may increase your chance of bleeding.
Damage to deeper structures: Although extremely rare, damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles may occur during the procedure. The potential for this to occurrence varies depending on treatment location on the face or body. Injury may be temporary or permanent.
Allergic Reaction: May occur to the thread material, topical numbing cream, lidocaine, epinephrine, or skin disinfectant products. Please let your provider know of any existing allergies, especially to plastic or nylon, prior to your procedure.
Pigment Changes: Treatment area can become lighter or darker in color compared to the surrounding skin. This is usually rare and temporary but may be permanent. Daily sun protection with SPF of 30+ is recommended.
Asymmetry/dimpling/ bumps/nodules: Since threads and collagen production are not an exact science, you may experience slight asymmetry or partial laxity correction. There is also a risk of dimpling or rippling of the skin, bumps, and nodule formation. Threads may be visible depending on the thickness of your skin. Occasionally, threads may protrude from the skin requiring trimming or removal of the thread. Other, unforeseen complications not stated herein may occur.
Combination Therapy for Best Results: To achieve the best results from your Thread Lift, you will likely need to combine this procedure with Botox or Dysport, Dermal Fillers for fine lines, wrinkles and volumization and other Collagen Induction Treatments (CIT) such as Nd:YAG lasers, microneedling, CO2 Fractional Laser and RF devices.
See Pre-care and Post-care instructions and adhere to these instructions carefully.
Compliance will not only minimize the risk of complications, but also maximize treatment result.
Martha Carey-Lee FNP
Fight Club NP
602-920-3317
martha@fightclubshutdown.com