In the dermatology world, a single thread can do wonders. Part of a cosmetic procedure known as a PDO threadlift, dissolvable threads are strategically inserted under the skin to lift and tighten sagging tissues. Within, the PDO ingredient stimulates collagen production for long-term rejuvenation. Often, it’s a speedy process that requires little downtime, yet not without its own discomfort and pain. Now, an alternative has entered our local domain—known as a liquid PDO threadlift.
A forerunner to introduce this new treatment to Singapore, Freia Medical, breaks down the difference to the physical threadlift, as a PDO thread that’s been dissolved in water. This liquid form is able to spread evenly around the intended areas, to stimulate your body’s natural collagen and elastin production. Unlike the physical threads, there will be no tugging or pulling involved, which could at times, be disconcerting for anyone doing it for the first time.
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The experience
“It feels very much like a skin booster,” was my first thought when the first needle of PDO 200 collagen biostimulator went under my skin. Another pro with a liquid threadlift also comes with its ability to be applied in the undereye area—to invigorate tired eyes. A common concern amongst many, including myself. Dr Harold Ma, medical director of Freia Medical, was meticulous in his approach by first singling out the areas of concern. In my case: undereye dark circles and eyebags as well as hollowing on my temples. “As we age, we’re losing our hydration, the bone mass is reabsorbing, and that’s why we start to have this downward gravity, deflation, descent and deterioration of skin,” explains Ma.
A tingling sensation rippled through my skin and that was it. No sort of lingering pain or discomfort that followed, even as he proceeded to inject more dosages into my face.
However there are limitations to this treatment. In cases to attain a lift to the nose, known as a nose threadlift, liquid PDO won’t be able to execute this effect. Which is where physical threads have to come in. In my case, 10 of them were carefully inserted and then tugged tightly. The action is almost similar to someone pulling a thread under your skin; fortunately with zero pain, thanks to the local anaesthetic that was applied right before the first intrusion.
Post-treatment
Recovery wise, the physical threads took a longer time for the pain and swelling to subside as compared to the liquid threads. The latter did cause some mild swelling on the night of, but soon subsided the next day. Despite the swell and stiffness in the week that followed, my skin was marginally brighter with the areas under my eyes filled out. Given that it’s an outcome I would like to hold on to (now in my 30s), more sessions of liquid PDO threadlift are encouraged in order to see better, long-lasting results.
Book an appointment at Freia Medical here.
