Dermal Filler vs PDO threads: Which is better?

In the dynamic world of cosmetic medicine, innovative anti-aging treatments like Polydioxanone (PDO) threads and dermal fillers have become increasingly popular. 

At Aesthetic Med Studio in Springfield Missouri, these treatments offer less invasive alternatives to traditional surgical approaches, each providing unique benefits and catering to specific aesthetic goals. This blog will explore the mechanisms, best uses, and anti-aging properties of both PDO threads and dermal fillers, and compare their effectiveness for different needs.

Understanding PDO Threads

What Are PDO Threads?

PDO threads are a form of thread lift made from polydioxanone, a biodegradable polymer used in medical sutures for decades. The threads are inserted into the subdermal layer of the skin using thin needles. Over time, these threads dissolve, but before they do, they serve a dual function: providing immediate lift and promoting collagen production.

How PDO Threads Work

The procedure begins with the insertion of the PDO threads under the skin. Once in place, they act as a scaffold, lifting and supporting the tissues. As the threads are absorbed over the next 8 months, they stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. This rejuvenates the skin from within, improving texture, volume, and elasticity.

Best Uses for PDO Threads

PDO threads are particularly effective for lifting sagging skin around the cheeks, jawline, and neck. They can also be used to lift and tighten the brow area. For patients experiencing mild to moderate sagging, PDO threads provide a non-surgical alternative to facelifts, with minimal downtime and immediate results.

Anti-Aging Factors of PDO Threads

The primary anti-aging benefit of PDO threads is their ability to stimulate the body’s healing response, which enhances skin quality and firmness. By promoting collagen production, PDO threads help to naturally rejuvenate the skin’s structure, leading to long-lasting improvements in skin texture and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Exploring Dermal Fillers

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines, or enhance facial contours. The most common type of fillers are based on hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the skin, which attracts water and adds volume.

How Dermal Fillers Work

When injected, fillers plump up the skin and smooth out wrinkles and folds. The presence of hyaluronic acid also attracts moisture, which helps maintain the plumpness and hydration of the skin. Results are visible immediately after the treatment and can last from six months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used.

Best Uses for Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are versatile and can be used to address a variety of concerns. They are particularly effective for deep lines and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Fillers are also used for lip enhancement, cheek augmentation, and correcting volume loss in the hands.

Anti-Aging Properties of Dermal Fillers

The anti-aging benefits of dermal fillers are primarily their ability to add volume and stimulate collagen production in the treated area. This leads to a more youthful appearance by smoothing out wrinkles and restoring facial contours that may have been affected by age-related volume loss.

Comparison Between PDO Threads and Dermal Fillers

While both PDO threads and dermal fillers serve anti-aging purposes, they have different mechanisms and are suited to different types of aesthetic concerns.

• Lifting vs. Volumizing: PDO threads provide a lifting effect, ideal for sagging skin. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are better for volumizing and filling deep lines and hollows.
• Duration of Effect: The effects of PDO threads can last anywhere from 1 to 2 years as they stimulate natural collagen production. Dermal fillers typically last from 6 months to 18 months, depending on the product used and the area that it is put in.
• Recovery and Risks: Both treatments have minimal downtime and minimal risk when done correctly. Often, we will tell people that you should plan to give yourself the weekend to recover from the ‘social downtime’ from each. 

Cost: Dermal Filler or PDO threads, which is more expensive?

Cost within each of these often depends on “where you are starting and what your end goal may be”. When going in for a consultation, it is always best to explain what you are wanting as an end result to your provider. They can then help to teach you cost and walk you through the options you may have. 

PDO threads are typically sold per thread: there are many different types of threads and each has a different cost associated with them. Similar to Dermal Fillers, the brand/type of thread will affect how long they last, how much they pull/lift, and the amount of structure/collagen they can provide per thread. With that, it is always important to go to a provider with experience in plastic surgery or trained by a plastic surgeon. This allows the provider that is doing the treatment to understand the way to structure and lift a face correctly. Cost can vary anywhere between $500 - 1,500 per treatment depending on what result you are looking for and how many areas you would like treated.

Dermal Fillers are often sold per syringe, this is typically how they are purchased in general from the practice that you are going to. When going to an experienced provider, they will be able to walk you through the difference of ‘which is better for you’ or if a combination of both will be best. At Aesthetic Med Studio, we will always listen to your goals and offer the best way to achieve your results. Dermal Filler cost can range from $500 - 1,500 per treatment.

When we compare the cost of PDO Threads vs Dermal Fillers we find that they are very similar to each other. The real answer to “which is best” mostly depends from person to person on what you/we are currently seeing within the area you want treated. At Aesthetic Med Studio, we get beautiful results for either one and both as a combination.

Overall

Choosing between PDO threads and dermal fillers depends largely on the individual's specific skin concerns and desired outcomes. For those looking to address sagging and loose skin, PDO threads are an excellent option. For volume loss and deep wrinkles, dermal fillers may provide more satisfactory results. Consultations with us are always free and we always recommend the most appropriate treatment or tell you if neither is a good option for you. Everyone is different and assessing your skin individually is essential for achieving your goals in your anti-aging journey.