When considering a breast lift, it can be overwhelming to figure out the type of procedure that is best for you.
Many different types of breast lifts are performed by invasive and non-invasive methods.
The type of breast lift you should get depends on the desired outcome you would like to achieve.
For example, for mild to moderate sagging of breasts, many women opt for the non-invasive method of a PDO thread breast lift.
Consulting with a plastic surgeon is the best way to know which type of breast lift is right for you.
What is a PDO thread lift?
A PDO (Polydioxanone) thread lift is a minimally invasive breast lift procedure that uses dissolvable PDO threads to lift the breasts into a more youthful position.
The threads work to produce a lifting and tightening effect by connecting the breast tissue to the skin to hold the breasts in place.
The results are instant, and following the surgery, the PDO threads stimulate collagen production underneath the skin, which will contribute to the lifting effect by improving tissue elasticity.
PDO thread lifts are typically performed on women who have mild to moderate sagging of the breasts and are recommended for those with breasts no bigger than a c-cup.
How is PDO Thread Lift used for breast lift?
The surgeon typically marks areas of the breast to insert the threads in a way that will provide optimal lift results.
Patients remain conscious during the procedure as only a general anesthetic is on the areas where the threads will be inserted.
The surgeon will then tape the breasts together and have the patient lie down to insert the threads. The entire procedure can be performed in under one hour.
However, it is important to note that the results are not permanent and will only last for 18-24 months.
Benefits of PDO Thread breast lift
There are many benefits of a PDO thread breast lift procedure, including:
- Considerably cheaper than other breast lift procedures.
- It is a quick and easy procedure with minimal downtime.
- Instant results that improve over time
- Improved skin texture and tone due to collagen production
- PDO threads are FDA approved and have a very low risk of an allergic reaction
Comparison of PDO thread breast lift with other breast lift methods
The four main kinds of surgical bread lifts are a crescent lift, periareolar lift, vertical lift, and anchor lift.
While these provide longer-lasting results than a PDO thread breast lift, there are more significant risks involved, as well as a longer recovery time due to them being invasive procedures.
Other non-invasive breast lifts offer temporary results, such as a Caci bust treatment, laser treatments, thermage, and a vampire breast lift. Here is the breakdown of what occurs during each of these procedures:
Crescent Lift: This lift is for minimal sagging and is performed with one incision that runs along the top edge of the areola.
A crescent-shaped piece of skin is removed, and the breast is sewn back up, providing a slight lift of the breast and redirection of the nipple.
Periareolar Lift: Also known as a donut lift, this procedure cuts around the areola to remove a donut-shaped area of the skin. The new outer perimeter is then stitched to the areola to give a tightening and lifting effect to the entire breast. This procedure is performed on women who are experiencing mild to moderate sagging of the breasts.
Vertical Lift: For more severe sagging, a vertical lift, also known as a lollipop lift is the recommended route. This procedure is done by making an incision around the areola and another incision that runs from the bottom of the areola to the crease. This allows for removing excess skin and tissue in a way that results in minimal scarring.
Anchor Lift: This lift is for those experiencing significant breast sagging and is done by making incisions around the areola, down the center of the breast, and along the crease at the bottom. Excess skin and tissues are removed and the areola is lifted to a centered position.
Caci Bust Treatment: This non-invasive method uses a device that focuses electric pulses on the muscles surrounding the breasts. This results in toned chest muscles and creates a lifting effect within the breasts. A few sessions over several weeks are required to see full results.
Laser Treatment: Lasers are used to increase collagen production and improve skin elasticity in the breasts. It is a two-step process that first tightens the skin and then is followed by a different laser to head the tissues within the breast.
Thermage: This collagen-stimulating, contouring method uses radio waves to tighten the fibers within the skin. It is only recommended for cases of mild sagging, but the results are tighter, lifted skin immediately following the procedure.
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Vampire Breast Lift: A vampire breast lift injects platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood to increase blood flow, improve skin texture and make breasts appear fuller. It won’t help with sagging but creates a push-up bra effect with the fullness it provides.
Possible risks and side effects of PDO thread breast lift
While a PDO breast lift comes with fewer risks and side effects than more invasive methods, there are some to be aware of, including:
Swelling and Bruising: The breasts will be sore, and incision points will be red after the procedure, but this subsides within a few days. Patients can manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medication.
Infection: There is a small risk of infection since there are open wounds at the incision points. Following post-care instructions can greatly reduce the risk of an infection occurring.
Allergic Reaction: A small number of patients are allergic to the PDO threads, and additional swelling and itching can occur. If a patient suspects they are having a reaction, they should seek medical attention.
Asymmetrical Breasts: If the threads are not placed correctly, or the patient’s breasts respond differently, asymmetry may occur.
Who should not get PDO Thread breast lift?
PDO thread breast lifts are not recommended for everyone, and you should discuss with a surgeon if the procedure is correct for you.
If you have or have previously had any of the following conditions, you may not be a candidate:
- Breast implants
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Larger than c-cup breast size
- Prone to keloid scarring
- Diagnosed bleeding disorder
- Allergy to PDO components
Cost of PDO Thread breast lift
It is recommended to seek out a qualified surgeon for this procedure and not go for the cheapest option. The average cost of a PDO thread breast lift ranges anywhere from $2,000-$3,000 USD.
Conclusion
A PDO thread breast lift is one of the easiest, non-invasive procedures to get breasts lifted. Many women are satisfied with the immediate results, short downtime, and speedy recovery. A surgeon who has experience in performing this procedure would be able to provide a consultation and answer any other questions you may have.
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