Struggling with Sagging Skin? Let’s Talk About Your Options
At Hampstead Aesthetics, we often see patients wondering which cosmetic procedures, such as PDO threads or dermal fillers, are better for lifting and tightening. Both treatments offer incredible anti-aging benefits, but they work in very different ways. Non-surgical cosmetic treatments have surpassed their surgical counterparts in popularity across the globe, making them a preferred choice for many.
Thread lifting is a minimally invasive procedure that effectively lifts and tightens sagging skin while stimulating collagen production. If you’re looking for a non-surgical solution to sagging skin, loss of volume, or fine lines, it’s essential to understand how each treatment works.
Let’s break it down.
What Are PDO Threads?
✅ PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are absorbable sutures placed under the skin to lift and tighten, commonly referred to as a thread lift procedure.
✅ The threads stimulate collagen production for long-term skin rejuvenation.
✅ Results last 12-18 months as your skin naturally regenerates.
✅ Best for lifting sagging skin in the cheeks, jawline, neck, and brows.
✅ Improves skin laxity, wrinkles, and texture over time. These absorbable sutures are a cornerstone of non-surgical lifting procedures.
How It Works: Collagen Production
Aesthetic practitioners insert PDO threads using a fine needle.
The threads create an instant lifting effect while stimulating collagen production for long-term skin rejuvenation.
Over time, the threads dissolve, leaving firmer, tighter skin.
Best for Patients Who:
✔ Want a lifting effect without adding volume.
✔ Prefer long-term collagen stimulation over temporary volume.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
✅ Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are a type of dermal filler treatment that restore lost volume and smooth out wrinkles.
✅ Fillers provide instant results, lasting 6-18 months.
✅ Best for adding volume to the cheeks, lips, under-eyes, temples and nasolabial folds.
✅ Improve skin hydration and elasticity.
✅ Reversible—hyaluronidase can dissolve HA fillers if needed.
How It Works
Fillers are injected beneath the skin to plump, contour, and enhance facial contours.
They work by hydrating the skin and restoring lost volume.
Unlike PDO threads, fillers do not physically lift but rather fill hollow areas.
Best for Patients Who:
✔ Want instant volume enhancement.
✔ Have hollow cheeks, sunken under-eyes, or thin lips.
✔ Want a reversible treatment option.
Benefits of a PDO Thread Lift
A PDO thread lift offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking a non-surgical, minimally invasive solution for facial rejuvenation. Some of the key advantages of a PDO thread lift include:
Immediate Lifting Effect: PDO threads provide an instant lifting effect, which can be seen immediately after the procedure.
Stimulates Collagen Production: The threads stimulate collagen production, leading to improved skin texture and firmness over time.
Long-Lasting Results: The results of a PDO thread lift can last up to 1-2 years, depending on individual factors such as age, lifestyle, and skin type.
Minimally Invasive: The procedure is minimally invasive, requiring only a few small punctures in the skin.
Customizable: PDO threads can be customized to individual needs, making them versatile for targeting specific areas of concern.
Natural-Looking Results: The results of a PDO thread lift are natural-looking, with no visible scarring or signs of surgery.
PDO Threads vs. Fillers: Key Differences
Feature | PDO Threads | Dermal Fillers |
Best for | Lifting and tightening | Adding volume & smoothing wrinkles |
Immediate Results? | Partial, full results in 3 months | Yes, instant plumping effect |
Collagen Stimulation? | Yes, long-term skin improvement | Minimal |
Duration | 12-18 months | 6-18 months (depends on filler type) |
Downtime | 2-5 days (mild swelling, bruising) | Minimal, slight swelling or bruising |
Reversibility | No (threads dissolve naturally) | Yes (HA fillers can be dissolved) |
Better Dermal Filler | N/A | Dermal fillers are often considered the better dermal filler option for patients seeking immediate and predictable results with minimal downtime. |
Risks and Complications
Understanding Potential Risks and Complications
While both PDO threads and dermal fillers are considered safe and effective treatments, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with each. Understanding these risks can help you make a more informed decision about your treatment.
For PDO threads, minor complications can include visible sutures, especially in individuals with thin skin. Other common side effects are pain, minor bruising, and inflammation. Although rare, more severe complications can occur, such as infection, hematoma, and, in very rare cases, salivary gland injury or facial nerve trauma.
Dermal fillers, particularly those made from hyaluronic acid, have a strong safety record. However, severe complications, though uncommon, can include vascular occlusion, tissue death, or even blindness. The good news is that hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using Hyaluronidase if complications arise, providing a safety net for patients.
To minimize the risk of complications, it’s crucial to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner who uses high-quality products and follows proper techniques. This ensures that you receive the safest and most effective treatment possible.
Treatment Duration, Downtime, and Pain Levels
Both PDO thread lifts and dermal fillers are considered minimally invasive procedures, with minimal downtime and discomfort. Here’s a comparison of treatment duration, downtime, and pain levels for both procedures:
Treatment Duration and Expected Downtime
PDO Thread Lift: The procedure, known as thread lifting, typically takes around 30-60 minutes to complete, with minimal downtime expected. This minimally invasive procedure effectively lifts and tightens sagging skin while stimulating collagen production. Patients can resume normal activities immediately, but may need to take precautions for several weeks to ensure optimal recovery.
Dermal Fillers: The procedure typically takes around 10-30 minutes to complete, with minimal downtime expected. Patients can resume normal activities immediately, but may experience some swelling, redness, or bruising that resolves within a few days.
Pain Levels and Discomfort
PDO Thread Lift: The procedure may cause some discomfort, but this is typically managed with local anaesthesia. Patients may experience some mild swelling, bruising, or redness after the procedure, but this resolves within a few days. Common side effects for PDO threads include swelling and bruising at the injection site.
Dermal Fillers: The procedure may cause some mild discomfort, but this is typically managed with topical anaesthesia or lidocaine. Patients may experience some mild swelling, redness, or bruising after the procedure, but this resolves within a few days.
It’s essential to note that individual experiences may vary, and it’s crucial to consult with a qualified professional to discuss potential risks and side effects associated with both procedures.
Longevity and Cost
Comparing Longevity and Cost of Treatments
When considering PDO threads and dermal fillers, it’s important to compare their longevity and cost to determine which treatment best suits your needs and budget.
The effects of a PDO thread lift typically last between 1-2 years. This duration can vary based on factors such as age, lifestyle, skin type, and the body’s natural collagen production. The cost of a PDO thread lift procedure ranges from £800 to £2400, depending on the number of threads required and the treatment area.
Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are not permanent and usually need to be repeated every 6-24 months. The longevity of dermal fillers depends on the type of filler used and individual factors like metabolism and lifestyle. In the UK, the cost of dermal fillers ranges from £200 to £1500.
While PDO threads may have a higher upfront cost, their long-term benefits can make them more cost-effective over time. Dermal fillers are generally more affordable initially but may require more frequent treatments to maintain the desired results.
Scientific Backing: How Effective Are PDO Threads and Fillers?
📌 A 2022 study published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that PDO threads significantly improved skin laxity in 85% of patients, with results lasting over a year.
📌 Research in Dermatologic Surgery (2021) reported that hyaluronic acid fillers, a naturally occurring substance, improved skin hydration and elasticity by 40% within 6 months.
📌 A 2023 trial in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery confirmed that PDO threads stimulated up to a 50% increase in collagen production over a 12-month period.
📌 A clinical review in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2024) found that combining PDO threads and fillers produced the most natural, long-lasting facial rejuvenation.
Expert Guidance and Safety
Importance of Professional Consultation for Safe Treatment
Choosing the right treatment and practitioner is crucial for achieving safe and effective results. A qualified and experienced practitioner will evaluate your individual needs and recommend the most suitable treatment option.
During a consultation, your practitioner will discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and skin concerns to determine the best course of treatment. They will also explain the potential risks and complications associated with each treatment and answer any questions you may have.
At Hampstead Aesthetics, our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized consultations and safe treatments. We aim to empower our patients to see a happier, brighter version of themselves. By choosing a professional consultation, you ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, leading to the best possible outcomes.
Can You Combine PDO Threads and Fillers?
Yes! Many patients benefit from using both treatments together.
✔ PDO Threads lift and tighten sagging areas.
✔ Fillers restore lost volume in hollow areas, enhancing facial contours for a more balanced, youthful look.
✔ When used together, they create a balanced, youthful look.
2025 Trends in Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation
Experts predict PDO threads and fillers will continue to be among the most in-demand minimally invasive treatments in 2025. With advancements in thread technology and longer-lasting fillers, more patients are opting for customized combination treatments to achieve a natural, lifted appearance.
At Hampstead Aesthetics, we’re always ahead of the curve, ensuring our patients receive the latest and best in aesthetic care.
FAQs: PDO Threads vs. Fillers
Question | Answer |
Do PDO threads or fillers last longer? | PDO threads last 12-18 months, while most fillers last 6-18 months. PDO threads stimulate collagen, leading to long-term improvements even after the threads dissolve. Fillers provide instant volume but require maintenance sessions. For long-lasting lifting, PDO threads may be the better choice. |
Which treatment is better for the jawline? | PDO threads are best for lifting and defining the jawline, as they provide structural support. Fillers can add contour but won’t physically lift sagging skin. Many patients combine both for enhanced jawline definition. |
Can PDO threads replace fillers? | Not always. PDO threads lift but don’t add volume. If you have hollow cheeks or deep nasolabial folds, fillers may be necessary. A combination approach works best for full facial rejuvenation. |
Is the downtime worse for PDO threads or fillers? | PDO threads have 2-5 days of mild swelling and bruising, while fillers usually have minimal downtime. If you want zero downtime, fillers may be preferable. |
Which treatment is more painful? | Both treatments are well tolerated. PDO threads involve a local anesthetic, while fillers feel like small pinches. Some areas, like the lips, may be more sensitive. |
Can you dissolve PDO threads like fillers? | No. PDO threads dissolve naturally over time, while fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase. If you want a temporary option, fillers may be better. |
Which treatment is better for under-eye hollows? | Fillers are usually the best option for under-eye volume loss, as PDO threads are not typically used in this area. |
How do I know which one is right for me? | The best option depends on your skin, concerns, and goals. At Hampstead Aesthetics, we customize every treatment plan to achieve the most natural, long-lasting, and youthful appearance. Book a consultation to discuss your ideal anti-aging strategy. |
📢 Still unsure whether PDO threads or fillers are right for you?
Let’s create a customized treatment plan for your unique needs. Book your consultation today!
📅 BOOK NOW Why Choose Hampstead Aesthetics for PDO Thread Lift in London?
At Hampstead Aesthetics, we specialize in PDO Thread Lift treatments, a revolutionary non-surgical facelift designed to lift, tighten, and rejuvenate your skin. Under the expert care of Dr. Chike Emeagi MBBS, MRCGP, MRCS-Ed, MSc, MBA, a GMC-registered aesthetic doctor and Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, we provide:
✅ Advanced PDO thread technology to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
✅ Immediate lifting effects for sagging skin on the face, jawline, neck, and body.
✅ Minimally invasive procedure with natural-looking, long-lasting results.
✅ Safe and clinically approved techniques, ensuring precision and effectiveness.
A highly respected trainer and speaker in aesthetic medicine, Dr. Emeagi also brings his expertise to:
✅ Trainer/Speaker: Stylage (Vivacy) | ✅ Trainer: DermaMedical | ✅ Faculty/Trainer: MINT PDO Threads
✨ Book your consultation today and achieve a naturally lifted, youthful look with PDO Threads at Hampstead Aesthetics! ✨
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