Addressing Dimpling After a PDO Thread Lift

A PDO (Polydioxanone) thread lift is a popular non-surgical procedure for skin lifting and tightening, offering a rejuvenated appearance by stimulating collagen. While generally safe and effective, some individuals may experience a temporary side effect known as dimpling after PDO thread lift. This article delves into why dimpling occurs, whether it is a normal part of the healing process, and crucial steps to take if you observe it. Understanding the causes and appropriate responses can help alleviate concerns and ensure a smoother recovery.

You’ll learn about immediate post-procedure care to minimize dimpling, the importance of communicating with your practitioner, and when advanced solutions might be considered for persistent dimpling. From gentle massage techniques to more targeted interventions like subcision or, in rare cases, thread removal, we cover comprehensive strategies to address and prevent dimpling, ensuring optimal results from your PDO thread lift.

Understanding Dimpling After PDO Thread Lift

What is PDO Thread Lift?

A PDO (Polydioxanone) thread lift is a popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure designed to lift and tighten sagging skin. It involves the insertion of dissolvable threads into the deeper layers of the skin. These threads, made from a biodegradable polymer, not only provide an immediate lift but also stimulate the body’s natural collagen production over time, leading to improved skin elasticity and texture. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a more youthful appearance without the downtime and risks associated with traditional facelift surgery.

Is Dimpling a Normal Part of the Process?

Yes, to a certain extent, minor dimpling immediately after a PDO thread lift can be a normal and temporary part of the healing process. When the threads are inserted, especially barbed or cog threads that are designed to grip and lift the tissue, they might pull the skin slightly inwards at the points of entry or along their path. This creates a small depression or “dimple.” It’s often due to:

• The thread temporarily anchoring too superficially.
• Mild swelling or localized tissue response around the thread.
• The skin initially conforming to the new lift provided by the threads.

In most cases, these minor dimples are temporary and tend to resolve spontaneously within a few days to a couple of weeks as the threads settle, swelling subsides, and the skin begins to conform to its new, lifted position.

Why Does Dimpling Happen?

While some immediate, minor dimpling is common and usually resolves, persistent or more pronounced dimpling can occur for several reasons:

• Thread Placement Issues: If a thread is placed too superficially in the skin, it can pull on the epidermis and dermis, causing a noticeable indentation. The ideal placement for lifting threads is in the subcutaneous fat layer or the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS).
• Excessive Tension: If too much tension is applied to the threads during insertion, or if they are pulled too tightly, it can create an unnatural puckering or dimpling effect on the skin’s surface.
• Skin Characteristics: Patients with very thin skin may be more prone to visible dimpling because there’s less tissue to camouflage the underlying threads.
• Swelling and Bruising: Initial swelling and bruising can temporarily distort the skin’s surface, making dimpling more apparent. As these subside, the dimpling often improves.
• Thread Breakage or Migration (Less Common): In rare instances, a thread might break or migrate slightly, which could lead to an uneven pull and a dimple.

How to Address Dimpling

If you experience dimpling after your PDO thread lift, the first and most important step is to contact your treating practitioner. Do not attempt to massage or manipulate the area yourself, as this could worsen the issue or dislodge the threads.

Your practitioner can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate course of action. Often, minor dimpling simply needs time to resolve. For more persistent or significant dimples, solutions may include:

• Gentle Massage by the Practitioner: Sometimes, a skilled practitioner can gently massage or manipulate the area to help the thread settle and release the dimple.
• Hyaluronidase Injection: If other fillers were also used nearby, hyaluronidase (an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid) might be considered, though this is less common for thread-related dimpling directly.
• Re-adjustment or Removal of Threads (Rare): In very rare cases where dimpling is severe, persistent, and caused by improper thread placement or excessive tension, the practitioner may need to re-adjust or even, as a last resort, carefully remove the problematic thread(s).
• Waiting: As PDO threads are dissolvable, if the dimpling is minor and doesn’t pose a health risk, sometimes the best approach is to simply wait for the threads to fully dissolve, at which point the dimpling will naturally resolve.

While dimpling can be a concern, it’s often a temporary side effect of a PDO thread lift. Choosing an experienced and qualified practitioner is paramount to minimizing the risk of such complications and ensuring the best possible outcome for your procedure.

How to Minimize Dimpling After PDO Thread Lift

Understanding Why Dimpling Happens

You’ve invested in a PDO thread lift for a more youthful look, which is exciting! Sometimes, though, a temporary side effect called dimpling can occur. It’s important to understand why this happens so you don’t panic if you see it and know how to address it effectively.

Dimpling primarily occurs for a few reasons. First, the PDO threads, especially barbed or cog threads, are designed to grip the tissue securely. When they’re first inserted and tightened, they can pull the skin inward slightly, creating a small indentation. Think of it like cinching a belt – it creates a gather. Second, swelling is a natural part of the healing process after any procedure. This swelling can temporarily exaggerate any slight pulling from the threads. As the swelling subsides, the skin often smooths out. Finally, the skill and technique of your injector play a crucial role. Incorrect placement or overtightening can increase the likelihood and severity of dimpling.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care to Prevent or Reduce Dimpling

What you do right after your procedure is critical for minimizing dimpling:

• Follow Post-Care Instructions Diligently:

  Your injector will provide specific instructions. These are not suggestions; they are crucial for optimal healing. This typically includes avoiding vigorous facial movements, not opening your mouth too wide, and sleeping on your back with your head elevated. These actions help prevent the threads from shifting or causing unnecessary tension on the skin while they’re settling.

• Avoid Pressure and Manipulation:

  Resist the urge to touch, rub, or massage the treated areas. Any pressure can dislodge threads or worsen dimpling. Be extra careful when washing your face or applying skincare products – use gentle, upward strokes if necessary, but ideally, avoid the immediate thread placement areas.

• Manage Swelling:

  Apply cold compresses (not ice directly) to the treated areas for the first 24-48 hours. This helps reduce swelling, which in turn can lessen the appearance of dimpling. Use a soft cloth to protect your skin from direct contact with the cold.

• Limit Facial Expressions:

  Try to minimize excessive laughing, yawning, or wide smiles for the first week or two. These movements can put strain on the newly placed threads and potentially exacerbate dimpling.

What to Do If Dimpling Occurs

If you still notice dimpling, don’t panic. In many cases, it resolves on its own within a few days to a couple of weeks as swelling subsides and the threads integrate with the tissue. However, here’s when to take action:

• Communicate with Your Provider:

  This is the most important step. Contact your injector immediately if you notice persistent or severe dimpling. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. Do not try to fix it yourself.

• Gentle Massage (Only If Advised by Your Provider):

  In some cases, a very gentle massage technique performed by your injector (or by you, if explicitly instructed and demonstrated) can help release a pulled area. However, self-massaging without proper guidance can worsen the problem or dislodge threads, so only do this if specifically told to.

• Hyaluronidase (Very Rare):

  In extremely rare instances where a thread is causing significant, unresolved dimpling or puckering by pulling on an area of hyaluronic acid filler, your provider might consider using hyaluronidase (an enzyme that dissolves HA filler). This is a very specific solution and not typically needed for thread-related dimpling itself.

Remember, temporary dimpling is a known, usually minor, side effect of PDO threads. By choosing an experienced injector and diligently following their post-care instructions, you significantly increase your chances of a smooth, beautiful result.

What to Do if You Experience Dimpling After PDO Thread Lift

Understanding Why Dimpling Happens

You’ve invested in a PDO thread lift, eager for a rejuvenated look, and then… you notice dimpling. It’s normal to feel concerned, but it’s helpful to understand why this can occur. Dimpling (also sometimes described as puckering or cinching) after a PDO thread lift typically happens for a few key reasons.

Firstly, it can be due to the immediate effect of the threads. PDO threads work by lifting and repositioning skin and underlying tissue. Sometimes, the initial tension created by the threads can pull the skin inward in specific spots, especially if an area has less fat or if the thread is very superficial. This direct, localized pull can create a temporary dimple.

Secondly, swelling plays a role. After any cosmetic procedure, there’s a natural inflammatory response, leading to swelling. This swelling can temporarily exaggerate irregularities, making minor dimples appear more pronounced. As the swelling subsides, these dimples often resolve on their own.

Lastly, inadequate tissue release before thread insertion or improper placement can contribute. If the skin isn’t sufficiently “mobilized” from underlying structures, or if a thread is placed too close to the surface or pulls too tightly in one spot, a dimple can form. While rare, more significant or persistent dimpling might indicate a need for professional adjustment.

Initial Steps When You Notice Dimpling

First and foremost, don’t panic. Dimpling is a relatively common and often temporary side effect. Here’s what you should do:

• Remain Calm

  Your body needs time to heal. Most minor dimpling resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks as swelling decreases and the threads integrate with your tissue.

• Review Aftercare Instructions

  Ensure you are diligently following all post-procedure care instructions provided by your practitioner. This includes avoiding exaggerated facial movements, sleeping on your back, refraining from aggressive massage, and avoiding certain medications or supplements.

• Apply Cool Compresses (Gently)

  If there’s localized swelling contributing to the dimpling, a cool, not cold, compress can help reduce inflammation. Be extremely gentle and avoid applying any significant pressure to the treated area.

• Stay Hydrated and Rest

  Supporting your body’s natural healing process with good hydration and adequate rest can help reduce overall swelling and promote recovery.

When and How to Contact Your Practitioner

While patience is key, it’s also crucial to know when to seek professional advice. You should contact your practitioner if:

• Dimpling Persists Beyond 1-2 Weeks

  Though minor dimples often resolve within a few days, if they are still noticeable after two weeks, it’s time to reach out.

• Dimpling Worsens

  If the dimpling becomes more pronounced instead of improving, contact your clinic immediately.

• You Experience Other Concerning Symptoms

  Look out for signs of infection (e.g., increased redness, warmth, pus, fever) or severe pain. These are not typical side effects and require immediate medical attention.

When you contact your practitioner, be prepared to describe the issue clearly. They may advise you to come in for an assessment. In some cases, a gentle massage (performed only by a trained professional) can help release a tightened area, or, if necessary, the thread might need to be adjusted or even removed (though this is rare and a last resort).

Preventative Measures for Future Treatments

To minimize the risk of dimpling in subsequent treatments, consider discussing the following with your practitioner:

• Practitioner Experience

  Choose an experienced and reputable practitioner who specializes in PDO thread lifts. Their skill in thread placement and understanding of facial anatomy is paramount.

• Pre-Treatment Assessment

  A thorough assessment of your skin quality, fat pads, and underlying structures can help the practitioner choose the most appropriate threads and placement techniques for you.

• Realistic Expectations

  Understanding that results evolve over time and that mild initial irregularities can occur is important for managing expectations.

In conclusion, while dimpling after a PDO thread lift can be unsettling, it is frequently a temporary issue that resolves with time and proper aftercare. Open communication with your qualified practitioner is essential for a smooth recovery and optimal results.