Information about Polydioxanone Threads
PDO threads, once inserted, are completely absorbed with only new collagen remaining after 6 months. Threads are non-allergenic and discomfort after insertion is mild to moderate lasting usually 3-4 days requiring pain killers like paracetamol 2-3 times a day after meals. Anti inflammatory drugs (e.g. Ibuprofen) are not recommended because this category of drugs reduces inflammation and can reduce collagen formation.
Generally bruising associated with the polydioxanone thread insertion is minimal, but clients on aspirin or other blood thinning medicines are prone to slightly more bruising. Aspirin prescribed for a medical indication should not be terminated, however, bruising is more likely.
Some degree of swelling can be expected lasting about 2-3 days. We may also recommend an oral antihistamine to reduce any swelling prior to treatment. Patients at risk of Cold sores are advised to take prophylactic aciclovir tablets and should apply topical cream, especially if
threads are to be inserted around the lips.
We advise you to stop taking all blood ‘thinning” supplements such as Evening Primrose Oil, Vitamin C and Vitamin E and certain herbs.
All existing facial asymmetry may not be completely rectified.
Follow up review consultations are recommended after 1 month and 3 months. However, in the event of any concerns whatsoever, please contact the clinic immediately on 0141 954 4398. Thread treatment is priced per area, discounts for multiple areas and additional threads at review stages are charge at £60 per thread.
Polydioxanone (PDO) Thread Treatment Consent Form
Polydioxanone threads are used for the treatment of facial creases, wrinkles, folds, contour defects, depression scars, facial lipoatrophy (loss of fat), and enhancement purposes. These treatments involve multiple injections of filler threads into or below the skin to fill wrinkles and restore volume. The effects of PDO threads are temporary and no guarantees can be made regarding how long correction will last in a specific patient. Alternatives to Polydioxanone threads include, but are not limited to: temporary dermal fillers, laser resurfacing and skin tightenings, surgical facelift or no treatment at all.
Possible risks, side effects and complications with polydioxanone threads include but are not limited to:
• Bruising, redness, and swelling
• Visibly raised areas or bumpiness at/around the treated site
• Asymemetry, over correction or under correction
• Unpredicatble persistence of filler, either shorter or longer than anticipated
• Prolonged discolouration of the skin such as brown, greyish, bluish or reddish colouration
• Filler material may be extruded from the skin in rare cases
• Prolonged or severe swelling
• Infection
• Rarely, granulomas or firm nodules may form
• Benign tumour formation (keratoacanthomas)
• Allergic reaction with itchiness, redness and in extremely rare cases generalised allergic response such as a whole-body swelling, respiratory problems and shock
• Scarring is extremely rare
• Skin breakdown or ulceration
• Facial nerve trauma is a possible but rare complication
• Blindness
Post Treatment Procedure
• Applying something cool to the treatment area will reduce swelling
• Applying SPF30+ and avoiding direct sunlight & tanning machines will prevent Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Do not wash your face on the same day after the procedure. Gentle cleansing is allowed from the next day, do not rub or massage the area for 2 weeks
• Do not open the mouth wide and do not have routine dental treatment for at least 4 weeks after the treatment
• Avoid alcohol and taking aspirin for 7 days after the treatment (unless for medical reasons)
• Avoid extreme temperatures (sauna, sunbed etc) and exercise for 7 days after the treatment
• Avoid having other cosmetic treatment for 14 days after the treatment
• A stinging or "pulling" pain or discomfort is normal. The pain will subside over a 2-week period, and should disappear by week 5. Take paracetamol 500mg 1-2 tablets 6 hourly as required. Avoid taking any anti-inflammatory medication (until 7 days after treatment) such as Nurofen, because inflammation is necessary to initiate the new collagen formation process.
• Antibiotics will be supplied and, if indicated, the course should be completed.
• Avoid having Radio Frequency (RF) or any heat-producing device (laser, IPL, etc) treatments of the thread treated areas for at least 10 weeks.
