When it comes to non-surgical facial rejuvenation, PDO threads and HIFU facials are two standout options that often spark discussion. And people do not always agree.
Both treatments promise to lift and tighten your skin, and combat common signs of ageing, but they each employ distinct methods to achieve these results.
Join us as we take a closer look at how these two approaches stack up, and very importantly what are the levels of discomfort? Perhaps this is the area where this battle is going to be fought on.
The Effects Of Ageing On Your Skin
As we age, our faces start showing signs of a well-lived life. Wrinkles and fine lines might pop up like a roadmap of our smiles, frowns, and laughs, especially around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
Additionally, our skin may begin to sag, as if it has decided to take a little vacation from its youthful tightness, particularly around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. You might also notice your under-eye bags starting to resemble overnight luggage or your once-sculpted jawline losing its definition.
Clever aesthetic treatments, however, like PDO and HIFU, can help you embrace these changes gracefully.
What Are PDO Threads?
PDO (Polydioxanone) threads are absorbable sutures that have been used in medicine for many years, mainly in surgical procedures. When it comes to enhancing facial aesthetics, PDO threads work like magic to lift and tighten sagging skin! The procedure involves inserting thin threads into your dermis (the second layer of your skin) using a needle. These threads act as a supportive scaffold, rejuvenating your skin and giving you a fresher, more youthful look.
How PDO Threads Work
The PDO threads work through a combination of mechanical lifting and stimulation of collagen production. As the threads are inserted, they create a network of support within your skin. The immediate lifting effect gets even better as the threads dissolve, kick-starting your body’s natural healing process. Over the following months, the production of new collagen and elastin ramps up, ensuring that you enjoy beautifully rejuvenated skin with results that last well beyond the initial treatment.
Benefits Of PDO Threads
- One of the standout benefits of PDO threads is their instant lifting effect. You will see a remarkable transformation in your skin’s appearance right after the procedure, with immediate and visible results.
- While there may be some swelling or bruising, most people can return to their daily activities fairly quickly.
- Beyond the initial lift, PDO threads encourage your skin to produce new collagen, which can improve skin texture and elasticity over time.
- The procedure can be customised to address specific areas of concern, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of skin types and issues.
Potential Drawbacks
The effects of PDO threads usually last between 6 to 18 months, depending on your skin type and lifestyle, giving you a radiant lift for months on end. After the procedure, you might feel a bit of tightness or mild discomfort, however, nothing too dramatic. While complications are rare, it is good to be aware of potential risks like infection, thread migration, or uneven results.
What Is A HIFU Facial?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to target deep layers of the skin. The goal is to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, providing a lifting effect without the need for surgery.
How HIFU Works
HIFU works by delivering focused ultrasound energy to the deeper layers of the skin (the SMAS layer, which stands for Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). This energy creates controlled damage to the tissue, sparking your body’s natural healing response. As your skin heals, it ramps up collagen production, leading to tighter, firmer skin that radiates youthful vitality.
Benefits Of HIFU
- HIFU is a completely non-surgical treatment, which means there is no need for needles or incisions.
- Most people can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure with minimal to no downtime.
- The results of a HIFU facial can last for up to 2 years, depending on the individual and their skincare routine.
- HIFU targets deeper layers of the skin compared to some other non-surgical treatments, which can be beneficial for more significant lifting and tightening.
Potential Drawbacks
Some patients may experience discomfort or a sensation of heat during the HIFU procedure, though this is typically manageable. The effects of HIFU develop gradually over several months, so immediate results are not expected. HIFU may also not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have very loose or excess skin.
Comparison
Both PDO threads and HIFU facials offer non-surgical alternatives to traditional facelift surgery, but they differ in several key ways:
| Feature | PDO Threads | HIFU |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Dermis | Dermis and subcutaneous fat |
| Mechanism | Stimulates collagen production by providing a temporary scaffolding effect | Uses focused ultrasound energy to heat deep tissue, causing collagen contraction and stimulation |
| Procedure | Threads are inserted beneath the skin using a needle | Ultrasound energy is delivered to the target tissue through the skin |
| Results | Immediate lifting and tightening effects, with results lasting for several months to a year | Gradual tightening and lifting effects appearing over several weeks or months |
| Downtime | Some discomfort and bruising | Minimal downtime |
| Suitable for | Those seeking dramatic and immediate results | Those seeking a less invasive option |
| Treatment area | Face, neck, and hands | Face, neck, and décolletage |
| Discomfort | Moderate discomfort during the procedure, with some bruising and swelling afterwards | Minimal discomfort, with some warmth or tingling during the treatment |
So, Which Treatment Is Right For You?
Your beauty goals and preferred style would have to be the decider between choosing PDO threads or HIFU. If you are after a quick lift and not bothered by minimally invasive procedures, PDO threads could be your go-to for instant results. But if you are a fan of non-invasive treatments and can handle a bit of patience for longer-lasting, gradual improvements, HIFU might be your perfect match.
To find out which option is best for you and you alone, it is a good idea to chat with a skilled aesthetic practitioner. They can evaluate your skin and dive into your goals to help you make the most fabulous choice. Both PDO threads and HIFU are stellar options for revitalising your skin, so the best treatment will be the one that aligns with your unique needs and dreams.
