Experiences of barbed polydioxanone (PDO) cog thread for facial rejuvenation and our technique to prevent thread migration.

[BACKGROUND] One of the most common nonsurgical options for facial rejuvenation is lifting using threads. Application of polydioxanone (PDO) threads is generally secure and effective procedure, but complications on the involved regions can occur.

[OBJECTIVE] In this study, we shared our experiences of efficacy and safety of PDO thread lifting for facial rejuvenation and presented our technique to prevent the migration of threads.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] Thirty-eight patients who underwent PDO cog treatment for facial rejuvenation were evaluated. Via 23 G/90 mm sharp needle, bidirectional barbed PDO cog thread was inserted into subcutaneous tissue. The outcomes of procedure were assessed by Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and patient satisfaction.

[RESULTS] Thirty-eight patients were included in this study. Mean age of participants was 39.6 ± 7.5 years. The GAIS score showed satisfactory results (very much improved: 78.9%; much improved: 18.4%; improved: 2.6%). According to patient satisfaction, all patients were satisfied with the clinical outcomes of procedure (excellent: 76.3%; very good: 21.0%; good: 2.6%). No patient reported 'fair' or 'poor' result.

[CONCLUSIONS] Our results revealed barbed PDO cog thread is highly effective in facial rejuvenation. Also, tying the PDO threads in same entry point to each other seems to be an effective technique to prevent thread migration.