PDO Threads in Aliso Viejo for A Subtle, Natural Lift.

A non-surgical way to gently lift and firm sagging skin. Dissolvable PDO threads provide a subtle lift while encouraging your own collagen — refreshed and natural, never overdone or surgical.

A non-surgical lift, done thoughtfully.

A PDO thread lift uses fine, dissolvable threads — made from polydioxanone (PDO), a material long used in medical sutures — placed just beneath the skin to gently lift and support areas that have started to sag. It's a non-surgical option for people who want a subtle lift without the cost, anesthesia, and downtime of surgery.

Threads do two things at once. They provide an immediate, subtle lift by supporting and repositioning the skin, and over the following weeks they help stimulate your body's own collagen production around the threads. The threads themselves dissolve over several months, while the collagen they help build can continue to support your results.

At Alladerm, PDO thread lifts are performed by our team. Threads are not a substitute for a surgical facelift, and we're upfront about that — for significant sagging, surgery may give you better results, and we'll tell you if that's the case.

Our philosophy is consistent: conservative placement, careful technique, and a natural-looking result. Refreshed and gently lifted — never tight or overdone.

Treatment Areas

Jawline & Jowls

Define a softening jawline and lift early jowls for a cleaner lower-face contour.

Cheeks & Midface

Gently lift and support cheeks that have started to descend over time.

Brows

Subtly lift the brow and open up the eye area for a more rested look.

Neck

Support mild laxity and soften banding along the neck.

Nasolabial Folds

Lift and soften the folds that run from the nose to the corners of the mouth.

Marionette Lines

Ease the creases that form from the corners of the mouth toward the chin.

Benefits

A subtle lift, no surgery

Gently lift and support sagging skin without incisions, general anesthesia, or extended downtime.

Stimulates your own collagen

As the threads dissolve, they encourage natural collagen production to help support your results.

Natural-looking results

Careful, conservative placement for a refreshed, gently lifted look — never tight or pulled.

Minimal downtime

Most people return to their day with only mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising for a few days.

Skilled team

Performed by our skilled injectors, who tailor the approach to your anatomy and goals.

How a thread lift compares

PDO threads sit between non-surgical volumizing and surgery. This overview can help you see where they fit — your provider will recommend the right approach, or combination, at your consultation.

ApproachBest forDowntime
PDO Thread LiftA subtle lift for mild to moderate sagging, plus collagen stimulationMinimal — a few days of mild swelling or bruising
Dermal FillersRestoring lost volume and supporting structure rather than lifting loose skinLittle to none
Surgical FaceliftSignificant, long-lasting correction of advanced saggingWeeks of recovery (performed by a surgeon)

Threads and fillers are often used together, while a facelift is a surgical procedure we don't perform. Your provider will walk you through which option serves you best.

What to Expect

Consultation

We assess your skin, facial structure, and goals to confirm whether threads — or another option — are the best fit.

Personalized plan

We map out the areas to treat and the type and number of threads, and walk you through realistic expectations.

Treatment

After numbing for comfort, threads are placed beneath the skin using a fine needle or cannula. Most appointments take under an hour.

Results & follow-up

You'll notice a subtle lift right away, with collagen-driven support continuing to build over the following weeks.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

  • You're noticing mild to moderate sagging along the jawline, cheeks, or brows
  • You'd like a subtle lift without surgery or general anesthesia
  • You want to stimulate collagen alongside an immediate, gentle lift
  • You prefer little downtime and a natural-looking result
  • You understand threads complement — but don't replace — a surgical facelift

Before and After Your Visit

A few simple steps help you heal comfortably and protect your result. Your provider will give you guidance tailored to you.

Before your appointment

  • If your physician approves, pause blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for a few days beforehand.
  • Skip alcohol for about 24 hours before your appointment to reduce bruising.
  • Arrive with clean skin, and let us know about any recent dental work or facial procedures.
  • Reschedule if you have an active breakout or skin infection in the treatment area.

After your appointment

  • Sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first few nights.
  • Avoid exaggerated facial expressions, wide yawning, and chewing tough foods for about a week.
  • Skip strenuous exercise, saunas, and facials or facial massage for one to two weeks.
  • Be gentle when cleansing, and avoid pressing or rubbing the treated areas.
  • Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising usually settles within a few days to a week.

Pricing

PDO thread lift pricing depends on the areas treated and the type and number of threads needed, so it's personalized to your plan. Smooth threads are typically used to stimulate collagen, while barb (lifting) threads provide more structural support. We'll review clear pricing with you at your consultation, before any treatment.

  • PDO Smooth Threads:
5 per thread
  • PDO Barb (Lifting) Threads: 50 per thread
  • Prices are current and subject to change; restrictions may apply. The number and type of threads vary by area and goal, so the per-thread price is not the total cost. We'll review your personalized plan and full cost with you before any treatment.

    PDO Threads FAQs

    Is a PDO thread lift surgery?

    No. It's a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment. Threads are placed beneath the skin through a fine needle or cannula — there are no incisions and no general anesthesia. It's not a replacement for a surgical facelift, but it's a popular option for a subtle lift with far less downtime.

    Does it hurt?

    We numb the area beforehand, so most people are comfortable during the treatment. Afterward you may feel mild tenderness, tightness, or soreness for a few days as you heal.

    How long do the results last?

    Results vary from person to person. The threads themselves dissolve over several months, while the collagen they stimulate can help support your results for longer — often around a year or so. Your provider will give you a realistic estimate based on your treatment.

    How much downtime is there?

    Downtime is usually minimal. Expect some mild swelling, tenderness, or occasional bruising for a few days. Most people return to normal activities quickly, while avoiding strenuous exercise and facials for a week or two.

    When will I see results?

    You'll typically notice a subtle lift right away from the support the threads provide. As any swelling settles and your body builds collagen around the threads over the following weeks, the result continues to refine.

    Can a thread lift be combined with other treatments?

    Yes. Threads are often combined with dermal fillers to restore volume, or with wrinkle relaxers, for a more complete, balanced result. Your provider will design a plan that fits your goals.

    Who is a good candidate?

    Thread lifts work best for mild to moderate sagging — early jowls or a softening jawline, for example. If you have more advanced sagging, we'll say so — a surgical facelift may give you better results — and help you find the right path.

    What's the difference between smooth and barbed PDO threads?

    Smooth threads are thinner and have no hooks — they're placed in a mesh pattern to stimulate collagen and improve skin quality and texture without providing much lift. Barbed threads have small hooks that grip the tissue and physically lift and reposition sagging skin. Most plans use a combination: smooth threads for collagen and skin quality, barbed threads where a lift is needed. Your provider will design the right mix for you.

    How much does a PDO thread lift cost in Aliso Viejo?

    Starting prices are listed in the pricing section of this page. The total depends on the number and type of threads used, which varies based on the areas treated and the degree of lifting needed. We review the full plan and cost with you before any treatment.

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