People can get amazing anti-aging results through a minimally-invasive cosmetic treatment called PDO threads. These dissolvable sutures, which have been used in surgical procedures for more than 60 years, help to address some of the most common signs of aging.
They are used in the face most often, for concerns such as sagging or drooping skin, lack of definition, and fine lines and wrinkles. People have raved so much about the results they produce that PDO threads have become the leading anti-aging cosmetic treatment today.
Those who haven’t had this procedure yet often wonder about how PDO threads work and what they do. One of the main questions people have is do PDO threads stretch the skin.
In this article, we’ll answer that question by explaining how PDO threads work to debunk that myth.
Barbed threads are used to lift parts of your face up, but they don’t stretch skin. In fact, PDO threads are inserted beneath the surface of the skin, into the face’s fat layer.
Medically reviewed by: Elizabeth Williams RN
Updated: 6/16/2025
How Do PDO Threads Work?
There are multiple types of PDO threads — smooth threads and barbed threads. The barbed threads are also referred to as lifting threads, since they are used to grab onto parts of the skin and “lift” it up into a new position.
These are the most popular type of threads, since they can help add definition to places that may have lost it, such as around the mouth or under eyelids. They can also address wrinkles, fine lines and more.
Providers use what’s called a preloaded cannula to insert them, which is basically the same process as when an IV line gets inserted. They will use local anesthesia to make sure you’re comfortable, and while you may feel slight tugging and pressure, you shouldn’t feel any pain.
Once they are inserted and positioned correctly, the provider snips off the ends and makes sure nothing is protruding out of the skin. Then, you can be on your way.
Your body will start to recognize the foreign object and use natural healing processes to break it down. During this process, it will produce extra collagen, which will help to make the results last longer and also give your skin more elasticity, plumpness and shininess.
Do PDO Threads Stretch Skin?
Barbed threads are used to lift parts of your face up, but they don’t stretch skin. In fact, PDO threads are inserted beneath the surface of the skin, into the face’s fat layer.
What the barbs are actually grabbing is the dermis and lifting that up, and not the skin itself. The skin will ultimately react to the PDO threads in a gentle way, which is what triggers the inflammatory response so that the collagen will be produced.
The collagen strengthens the skin and makes it more elastic, but nothing is getting stretched at all. Your skin won’t even be pulled, so you do not need to worry about the possible ill-effects of that.
Will PDO Threads Restrict Movements?
People who have negative feelings about cosmetic treatments are usually thinking about the plastic and fake-looking results that some cosmetic surgeries can cause. This is especially true if someone visited an inexperienced provider or opted for a “budget clinic.”
This is not the case at all with PDO threads, though. While you want to be careful with facial movements immediately following your treatment so that you don’t know anything loose, your movements won’t be restricted at all.
Your normal facial expressions will still remain the same, and your overall look won’t be a dramatic “facelift.” Instead, PDO threads treatments are prized because of the subtle, natural results they produce.
They are intended to improve your skin and reverse the signs of aging, while still ensuring that you look like you. This is a major reason why they are considered the leading treatment option for people who want to experience anti-aging effects, especially in their face.
| Myth | Fact | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| PDO threads stretch the skin. | They do not stretch the skin. | PDO threads lift the dermis beneath the skin, triggering collagen production without pulling or stretching the outer skin layer. |
| PDO threads cause a tight or fake facial expression. | Facial movements remain natural. | The threads provide subtle, natural-looking results without affecting muscle movement or facial expressions. |
| The procedure is painful. | The procedure is minimally uncomfortable. | Local anesthesia is used; patients may feel slight pressure or tugging but not pain. |
| PDO threads provide dramatic changes similar to surgery. | Results are subtle and rejuvenating. | Unlike facelifts, PDO threads offer natural enhancements with minimal downtime. |
| All PDO threads are the same. | Different threads serve different purposes. | Smooth and barbed threads have different effects, and premium brands like V Soft Lift offer superior options for personalized results. |
V Soft Lift Produces the Best PDO Threads on the Market
PDO threads do not at all stretch your skin. They are inserted below the top layer of your skin and grab onto the dermis to give you a lifting effect.
The results of the treatments are subtle and natural-looking, which is why they’re in such high demand today.
As you search for a provider to do your next PDO threads treatment, make sure that you choose one who uses high-quality threads produced by V Soft Lift. We have created a diverse line of PDO threads that are the best on the market.
Providers can select the PDO threads that work best for each individual patient, which helps ensure the best results possible.
For more information, contact us today.
