PDO thread lift treatment in Maidenhead

Clinical overview

PDO (polydioxanone) threads are fine, absorbable sutures inserted beneath the skin to provide an immediate mechanical lift and to stimulate gradual collagen production as they dissolve. Different thread types (smooth, barbed, cog) are selected based on the area and the degree of lift required. We use thread lifts selectively — they work well for mild to moderate laxity where a subtle lift is the goal, but they are not a substitute for surgical intervention in cases of significant sagging. During consultation, we assess whether threads are the most appropriate option or whether an alternative (or combination) would deliver a safer or more effective result. Suitability is confirmed after clinical assessment of your skin quality, degree of laxity, medical history and expectations.

Key Benefits

• Immediate mechanical lift with gradual collagen stimulation as threads dissolve
• Minimally invasive — no general anaesthetic or surgical incisions required
• Can address mild to moderate laxity in face, jawline, neck and brow
• Results develop over weeks as collagen remodelling continues
• Shorter recovery compared to surgical facelift options

Suitable For

• Mild to moderate skin laxity where subtle lift and tightening are the goal
• Patients who want improvement without surgical intervention
• Jawline, jowl, brow or mid-face lifting
• Those with realistic expectations about what non-surgical lifting can achieve
• Often combined with other treatments for a comprehensive plan

Not Suitable For

• Significant skin laxity or sagging that would be better addressed surgically
• Active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Certain autoimmune or connective tissue conditions (assessed individually)
• Anyone with unrealistic expectations of a surgical-level result from a non-surgical procedure

Final suitability is confirmed during a medical consultation and assessment.

When we don't recommend it

• If laxity is too advanced — threads cannot replicate the results of a surgical facelift and we will explain this honestly.
• If skin quality is very thin or fragile — threads may not anchor well and alternative approaches may be safer.
• If you have active skin infection or inflammation — treatment should be delayed until your skin is healthy.
• If expectations exceed what threads can deliver — we will discuss alternatives that may better meet your goals.
• If a combination approach would be more effective — for example, skin quality treatments before or alongside threads.

What Happens During Treatment

1. 1Clinical consultation and assessment of skin laxity, quality and medical history
2. 2Discussion of thread types, expected outcomes, limitations, risks and alternatives
3. 3Treatment planning and informed consent, including aftercare guidance
4. 4Local anaesthetic is applied before thread insertion for comfort
5. 5Threads are placed using fine needles or cannulae; the procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes
6. 6Post-treatment review and clear aftercare instructions

Downtime & Aftercare

• Mild swelling, bruising and tenderness are common and usually settle within 1–2 weeks
• Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive facial movement and sleeping face-down for 1–2 weeks
• Avoid facials, saunas and dental treatment for 2–4 weeks (unless advised otherwise)
• Follow specific aftercare guidance provided at your appointment
• If you notice unexpected pulling, asymmetry or signs of infection, contact the clinic promptly

Results Timeline

• An immediate subtle lift is usually visible from the mechanical action of the threads.
• Collagen stimulation develops over weeks to months as the threads gradually dissolve.
• Full results are typically appreciated at around 2–3 months post-treatment.

Individual results vary. View our results and photography standards

Risks & Side Effects

Common, Usually Temporary

• •Swelling, bruising and tenderness at insertion points (usually resolves within 1–2 weeks)
• •Mild asymmetry that typically settles as swelling resolves
• •Temporary tightness or pulling sensation

Frequently Asked Questions